PACAP Receptor (PAC1-R) Expression in Rat and Rhesus Monkey Thymus

The expression of PACAP receptor (PAC1-R) was investigated in the thymus of rats and rhesus monkeys. In the rat thymus, PAC1-R positive cells were found in the intermediate type of thymic epithelial cells of the medulla. PAC1-R-positive cells were also seen in the thymic medulla of the rhesus monkey. The thymus showed unusual structures in some rhesus monkey dams (F0) and offspring (F1) exposed to 2, 3, 7, 8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). Additionally, in these rhesus monkeys, PAC1-R expression was different from that in the control thymus.

Immunohistopathological study of the oral lichenoid lesions of chronic GVHD

BACKGROUND

Chronic graft-vs.-host disease (cGVHD) is a common and serious complication after bone marrow transplantation (BMT). However, the detailed process of oral lichenoid lesions of cGVHD is still unknown. Therefore, we investigated the immunohistopathological features of cGVHD compared with oral lichen planus (OLP) and healthy controls.

METHODS

Nineteen allogenic BMT recipients with a histopathological diagnosis of cGVHD were investigated. We investigated the immunohistopathological features of cGVHD compared with OLP and healthy controls.

RESULTS

Immunohistopathological features showed that the infiltrations of CD4-positive T cells of cGVHD and OLP were significantly larger than those of the normal oral mucosa (P < 0.005). A larger number of CD8-positive T cells was infiltrated in cGVHD and OLP compared with the normal oral mucosa (P < 0.001). The difference in the number of CD4- and CD8-positive T cells between cGVHD and OLP was not significant. The infiltrations of Langerhans cells (CD1a) in cGVHD and OLP were significantly larger than those in the normal oral mucosa (P < 0.005). The difference in the number of Langerhans cells between cGVHD and OLP was not significant. CD68-positive macrophages were more frequently seen in cGVHD and OLP than in the normal oral mucosa (P < 0.0001). The difference in the number of CD68-positive macrophages between cGVHD and OLP was not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

It is suggested that Langerhans cells and CD8-positive T cell may play a major role in the pathogenesis of the oral lichenoid lesions of cGVHD, and the immune response was inducted in OLP as well as the oral lichenoid lesion of cGVHD in this study.

Efficient cross-linking to cytidine under neutral conditions using the 2-amino-6-vinylpurine derivative having an additional activating group

We have previously reported that the oligonucleotides incorporating 2-amino-6-vinyl purine analog (1) showed efficient interstrand cross-linking with selectivity toward cytidine at a target site. In this paper, we describe the design of more efficient cross-linking reagent (2) bearing 2-amino-6-vinyl purine motif to react to cytidine selectively under neutral condition.

Hand-assisted laparoscopic nephrectomy

PURPOSE

We report our experience in performing a hand-assisted laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (HALRN) for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and a hand-assisted laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy (HALDN) for renal transplantation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The clinical data on 21 patients with HALRN for stage T1N0M0 RCC and 5 living kidney donors with HALDN for renal transplantation were reviewed. We compared the results of 21 HALRNs with those of 15 conventional open radical nephrectomies for stage T1N0M0 RCC.

RESULTS

The HALRN for RCC was successfully performed without any major complications in all 21 patients. The mean operation time for the HALRN group was significantly longer than that for the open surgery group (262 minutes versus 219 minutes). However, the mean estimated blood loss in the HALRN group was less than that in the open surgery group (250 ml versus 388 ml), although there was no statistically significant difference. The frequency in usage of analgesia postoperatively in the HALRN group was significantly less than that in the open surgery group (2.5 times versus 7.3 times). The HALDN was also successfully performed without any major complications in all 5 cases. The mean operation time, blood loss and warm ischemic time were 248 minutes, 322 ml and 9.8 minutes, respectively. All donors resumed oral intake of food within 48 hours after the surgery and returned to normal, non-strenuous activity by postoperative day 8.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that a hand-assisted laparoscopic nephrectomy is an effective and safe surgical procedure, and it is less invasive than an open nephrectomy.

An efficient algorithm for automatically generating multivariable fuzzy systems by Fourier series method

By exploiting the Fourier series expansion, we have developed a new constructive method of automatically generating a multivariable fuzzy inference system from any given sample set with the resulting multivariable function being constructed within any specified precision to the original sample set. The given sample sets are first decomposed into a cluster of simpler sample sets such that a single input fuzzy system is constructed readily for a sample set extracted directly from the cluster independent of the other variables. Once the relevant fuzzy rules and membership functions are constructed for each of the variables completely independent of the other variables, the resulting decomposed fuzzy rules and membership functions are integrated back into the fuzzy system appropriate for the original sample set requiring only a moderate cost of computation in the required decomposition and composition processes. After proving two basic theorems which we need to ensure the validity of the decomposition and composition processes of the system construction, we have demonstrated a constructive algorithm of a multivariable fuzzy system. Exploiting an implicit error bound analysis available at each of the construction steps, the present Fourier method is capable of implementing a more stable fuzzy system than the power series expansion method of ParNeuFuz and PolyNeuFuz, covering and implementing a wider range of more robust applications.

A new reactive nucleoside analogue for highly reactive and selective cross-linking reaction to cytidine under neutral conditions

We have already demonstrated that the oligonucleotides DNA (ODNs) bearing a 2-amino-6-vinylpurine derivative (1) exhibited efficient interstrand cross-linking to cytidine selectively. In this study, a new reactive nucleoside analogue, 2-amino-6-(1-ethylsulfoxy)vinylpurine derivative (7), was designed based on a computational method to achieve high and selective alkylation with cytidine under neutral conditions. It has been demonstrated that the ODN (13) bearing 2-amino-6-(1-ethylsulfoxy)vinylpurine achieved highly selective and efficient cross-linking to cytidine under neutral conditions.

Hand-assisted laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy using newly produced LAP DISC: initial three cases

BACKGROUND

A new abdominal sealing device, called the LAP DISC, was used for the first time in hand-assisted laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy (HALDN) on three donors. The LAP DISC is made of three layers of rings connected by a rubber membrane, which covers the peritoneum and abdominal wall. The upper ring can adjust to the surgeon's hand size for insertion.

METHODS

The LAP DISC was seated through an approximately 7-cm midline incision under the xiphoid process. The laparoscopic port was inserted through the LAP DISC, and thereafter, pneumoperitoneum was established. Three trocars were then placed under direct vision. The surgeon's left arm was inserted into the LAP DISC and used for manual retraction, dissection, and hemostasis. In the three operations, the kidneys were removed through the LAP DISC.

RESULTS

The total warm ischemic times of the kidney were 15, 8, and 4 minutes, and the total operative times were 323, 195, and 240 minutes, respectively. After the subsequent transplantation into the recipient, the kidneys produced clear urine immediately on reperfusion. The recipient creatinine fell to 4.2, 5.6, and 3.9 mg/mL on postoperative day 1. All three donors resumed consistent oral intake within 24 hours after surgery and returned to normal, nonstrenuous activity by postoperative day 6.

CONCLUSION

The LAP DISC device is excellent for HALDN and may increase the number of surgeons and donors who select HALDN.

Site-directed alkylation to cytidine within duplex by the oligonucleotides containing functional nucleobases

We have previously described that oligonucleotides (ODN) containing phenylsulfoxide derivative of 2-amino-6-vinylpurine nucleoside analog (1) are activated within duplex to form cross-link toward cytidine selectively at the target site. In this paper, we wish to report the search for more stable precursor susceptible for activation within duplex.

[Long-term results of right ventricular outflow reconstruction with valved conduit]

Twenty-nine patients who underwent right ventricular outflow tract reconstruction using a valved conduit 37 times and survived surgery, were reviewed in this study. Hancock, Ionescu-Shiley, Carpentier-Edwards and Polystan was used for RVOTR. Freedom from reoperation rates of Hancock, Ionescu-Shiley and Carpentier-Edwardsat at five and ten years after surgery were 100%, 85.7%, 89.2% and 75%, 28.6%, 89.2%, respectively. The freedom from reoperation rates of Hancock and Carpentier-Edwards were significantly higher than that of Ionescu-Shiley. In conclusion, the freedom from reoperation rate at ten years was high for both Hancock and Carpentier-Edwards.

Hand assisted laparoscopic radical nephrectomy for renal carcinoma using a new abdominal wall sealing device

PURPOSE

We report our initial experience with a hand assisted laparoscopic radical nephrectomy for patients with renal carcinoma, and compare our results to those of conventional open radical nephrectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The clinical data on 6 consecutive patients who underwent hand assisted laparoscopic radical nephrectomy for stage T1N0M0 renal cell carcinoma were reviewed. We performed hand assisted laparoscopic surgery using the new LAP DISC* abdominal wall sealing device. We compared the results of this procedure with those of conventional open radical nephrectomy in 12 patients with stage T1N0M0 renal cell carcinoma.

RESULTS

The hand assisted laparoscopic radical nephrectomy for renal carcinoma was successfully performed without any major or minor complications in all 6 patients. Mean operation time for the laparoscopic group was significantly longer than that for the open surgery group (303 minutes versus 224 minutes, p = 0.0042). However, no significant difference was observed in mean estimated blood loss for the 2 groups (264 ml. in the laparoscopic group versus 341 ml. in the open surgery group). The frequency of parenteral analgesia postoperatively in the laparoscopic group was significantly lower than that in the open surgery group (16.7% versus 75.0%, p = 0.043). In addition, the laparoscopic group seemed to recover more rapidly than the open surgery group. The abdominal wall sealing device was easy to attach to the abdominal wall, and allowed rapid hand removal and reinsertion.

CONCLUSIONS

Our preliminary results indicate that a hand assisted laparoscopic radical nephrectomy with the abdominal wall sealing device is an effective and safe surgical procedure, and is less invasive than open radical nephrectomy.

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma: comparison with open adrenalectomy and comparison of laparoscopic surgery for pheochromocytoma versus other adrenal tumors

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy of laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma with that of conventional open adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma and laparoscopic surgery for other adrenal tumors.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fifty-four patients with adrenal tumors, including 10 cases of pheochromocytoma, 18 cases of Cushing's syndrome, 20 cases of primary aldosteronism, and 6 cases of nonfunctioning tumors, were evaluated. A historical group of 7 consecutive patients who underwent conventional open adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma was also studied.

RESULTS

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma was successful in 9 of the 10 patients. There was no difference in tumor size, operation time, estimated blood loss, or occurrence of hypertensive episodes during surgery between patients treated with laparoscopic procedures and those treated with open surgery. However, the number of days to first postoperative oral feeding and first ambulation, length of hospitalization, and number of patients requiring parenteral analgesics were significantly smaller after laparoscopic surgery than after open surgery. There was no significant difference in operation time, estimated blood loss, incidence of intraoperative complications, or postoperative recovery between patients who underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma and those who underwent laparoscopic surgery for other adrenal lesions.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy does not increase the specific risks associated with surgery for pheochromocytoma. It is a minimally invasive alternative to conventional open adrenalectomy.

Antitumor activity of interleukin-12 against murine bladder cancer

PURPOSE

We investigated the antitumor activity of interleukin-12 (IL-12) against MBT-2, a murine bladder carcinoma, to clarify whether or not IL-12 is effective against urothelial tumors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MBT-2, a murine carcinogen-induced, poorly differentiated transitional cell carcinoma of C3H/He origin, was used. Three or 10 days after the subcutaneous administration of MBT-2 cells, C3H/He mice were injected intraperitoneally with IL-12 five times per wk. for 2 wk. Tumor growth was measured twice weekly. Spleen cells from the C3H/He mice that had rejected MBT-2 after the IL-12 treatment were examined for MBT-2-specific cytolytic T lymphocytes (CTL) activity and cytokine production.

RESULTS

Tumor growth and acceptance was obviously suppressed when C3H/He mice were treated with IL-12 from 3 days after the tumor inoculation. In the spleen cells from the C3H/He mice that had rejected MBT-2, MBT-2-specific CTL activity and secretion of IL-2 and interferon (IFN)-gamma were clearly detected. However, the established MBT-2 tumor cells were not rejected when C3H/He mice were given IL-12 from 10 days after the tumor inoculation, although the tumor growth was transiently suppressed during the IL-12 treatment.

CONCLUSION

These data demonstrate that IL-12 is considerably effective against murine bladder cancer and suggest the clinical application of IL-12 against human bladder cancer.

Antitumor activity of interleukin-12 against murine bladder cancer

PURPOSE

We investigated the antitumor activity of interleukin-12 (IL-12) against MBT-2, a murine bladder carcinoma, to clarify whether or not IL-12 is effective against urothelial tumors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MBT-2, a murine carcinogen-induced, poorly differentiated transitional cell carcinoma of C3H/He origin, was used. Three or 10 days after the subcutaneous administration of MBT-2 cells, C3H/He mice were injected intraperitoneally with IL-12 five times per wk. for 2 wk. Tumor growth was measured twice weekly. Spleen cells from the C3H/He mice that had rejected MBT-2 after the IL-12 treatment were examined for MBT-2-specific cytolytic T lymphocytes (CTL) activity and cytokine production.

RESULTS

Tumor growth and acceptance was obviously suppressed when C3H/He mice were treated with IL-12 from 3 days after the tumor inoculation. In the spleen cells from the C3H/He mice that had rejected MBT-2, MBT-2-specific CTL activity and secretion of IL-2 and interferon (IFN)-gamma were clearly detected. However, the established MBT-2 tumor cells were not rejected when C3H/He mice were given IL-12 from 10 days after the tumor inoculation, although the tumor growth was transiently suppressed during the IL-12 treatment.

CONCLUSION

These data demonstrate that IL-12 is considerably effective against murine bladder cancer and suggest the clinical application of IL-12 against human bladder cancer.

Semiquantitative morphological analysis of stromal cells in the irradiated and recovering rat thymus

To understand the roles of thymic stromal cells in T-lymphocyte development, we semiquantitatively analysed rat thymi recovering from irradiation (6 Gy), using a transmission electron microscope. The most striking findings were that the percentage of subcapsular epithelial cells significantly increased in the cortex on day 3 after irradiation compared with the control; the percentage of intermediate epithelial cells significantly increased in the cortex on days 3 and 5 after irradiation and in the medulla on days 5 and 7 compared with the control; the interdigitating cells disappeared from the medulla by day 7 after irradiation and reappeared on day 9. The present data thus reveal that during recovery after irradiation (6 Gy), marked changes occur in the relative proportions of different epithelial cell subtypes in the cortex and medulla of the rat thymus. In addition, the percentages of macrophages and interdigitating cells also changed during the recovery. These changes, which may be associated with the abrupt proliferation of thymocytes after irradiation, should shed light on the significance of stromal cells in the T cell development.

Calcitriol therapy modulates the cellular immune responses in hemodialysis patients

We studied the in vitro and in vivo effects of calcitriol (1,25D) on the cellular immune responses in 19 hemodialysis (HD) patients. In vitro 5-day treatment with 1,25D markedly reduced the HLA-DR expression by peripheral blood CD14(+) monocytes from both HD patients and normal subjects in a similar fashion. The HLA-DR expression by monocytes and the phorbol myristate acetate (PMA)-induced superoxide production (SOP) by neutrophils were significantly higher in the HD patients than in the normal subjects (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). The phagocytic activity in the HD patients was significantly lower than that in the normal subjects (p < 0.05). Moreover, the mitogen response of HD peripheral blood lymphocytes against pokeweed mitogen (PWM) was significantly lower than that of the controls (p < 0.01) but was only slightly and insignificantly lower against Con A. Oral 1,25D pulse therapy resulted in a marked decrease in the HLA-DR expression by peripheral blood monocytes 2 and 4 days after the first 1,25D administration (p < 0.01) in HD patients. Moreover, the treatment significantly enhanced the PMA-induced SOP 2 days after the treatment (p < 0.01). However, the phagocytic activity by neutrophils and the mitogen responses to Con A and PWM by lymphocytes were not significantly affected by this treatment. These results suggest that 1,25D plays a significant role in the regulation of both the monocyte and neutrophil functions in HD patients.

Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist mRNA expression and the progression of gastric carcinoma

Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra), an endogeneous inhibitor of IL-1, plays an immunosuppressive role in vivo by blocking the proinflammatory effects of IL-1. In the present study, we examined whether IL-1ra expression in human gastric carcinoma correlates with tumor progression and/or metastatic potential. The reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was used to compare the expression of the secreted form of IL-1ra (sIL-1ra) and the intracellular form of IL-1ra (icIL-1ra) mRNA in tumor and corresponding benign tissue obtained from 38 patients with gastric carcinoma. The incidence of sIL-1ra mRNA expression was significantly higher in tumor (52%) than in corresponding benign tissue (18%) (P = 0.002). On the contrary, icIL-1ra mRNA was detected in all tumors and benign tissues. The expression of sIL-1ra mRNA by malignant tissue correlated positively with both lymph node metastasis (P = 0.008) and liver metastasis (P = 0.015). There was no association between tumor sIL-lra mRNA expression and other clinicopathologic factors. The degree of regional lymph node reaction, such as sinus histiocytosis, in tumors expressing sI-1ra mRNA was significantly weaker than that in tumors without sIL-1ra mRNA expression (5/20 vs. 12/18, P = 0.010). These results demonstrate that the altered expression of sIL-1ra by malignant tissue may be related to the progression of gastric carcinoma via modulating host immune response.

Vascular and stromal changes in irradiated and recovering rat thymus

To analyze the mechanisms responsible for thymocyte proliferation, maturation and migration in the thymus, the rat thymus just after, and recovering from irradiation was studied morphologically. The vascular structures of the rat thymus after a radiation dose of 6 Gy were found to be destroyed on day 3, but had recovered to almost normal by day 7, suggesting that the abrupt recovery of thymus structure after irradiation was due primarily to this change in vascular structure. Furthermore, the epithelial tissues in the thymic cortex appeared to contribute to this abrupt proliferation, and possibly to the abrupt maturation of thymocytes, while medullary epithelial tissues remained sparse and appeared inactive for a relatively long period. These findings are considered important for understanding the interrelationship between thymic epithelial cells and thymocytes with respect to thymocyte proliferation, maturation and migration.

[Chlamydia trachomatis infection in male infertility--the clinical usefulness of the detection of antibodies against Chlamydia trachomatis]

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study is to investigate the clinical usefulness of the detection of antibodies against Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis) in potential male infertility patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Analysis of serum samples for the presence of antibodies against C. trachomatis by enzyme immunoassay was performed in 83 male infertility patients.

RESULTS

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) and G (IgG)-antibodies against C. trachomatis were found in 16 and 10 of 83 serum samples (19.3 and 12.0%) respectively. IgA and/or IgG-antibodies against C. trachomatis were found in 20 of 83 serum samples (24.1%). Serum IgA, IgG, or IgA and/or IgG positive patients showed increased semen and urine leukocytes numbers and reduced semen volume and sperm numbers, compared with negative patients, respectively, although these effects are not statistically significant. By Spearman's correlation analysis, however, significant positive correlations with serum IgA or IgG antibody index were found in semen and urine leukocytes numbers. Significant negative correlations with serum IgA antibody index was found in semen volume. In serum IgA positive patients, only 1 of 8 first-voided urine samples was positive for C. trachomatis-DNA by PCR. Moreover, the positive rates of surum IgA antibody and cervical antigen in the 8 female partners of IgA positive patients were only 25% (2 of 8 serum samples) and 12.5% (1 of 8 cervical specimens) respectively.

CONCLUSION

There was a high prevalence (24.1%) of serum IgA and/or IgG-antibodies against C. trachomatis from infertility patients. The existance of antibodies against C. trachomatis in serum samples possibly influence semen quality, suggesting that C. trachomatis infection may play an important role in male infertility.

Antiproliferative effect of calcitriol on human prostatic cancer cell lines: unrelated to the expression of major histocompatibility complex antigens or intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1)

BACKGROUND

In addition to its role in calcium and phosphorus metabolism, calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3; 1,25-D3) demonstrates multiple effects on cell proliferation/differentiation by expressing major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigens and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). It has recently been reported that 1,25-D3 inhibits the growth of prostatic cancer (PCa) cells. In this study we examined the effect of 1,25-D3 on both the growth and expression of HLA-ABC, HLA-DR and ICAM-1 antigens in PCa cells.

METHODS

Four human PCa cell lines (PC-3, PPC-1, ALVA-41 and ALVA-101) were examined. The cell numbers were enumerated, and the effects of interferon-y (IFN-gamma) and 1,25-D3 on the expression of HLA-ABC, HLA-DR and ICAM-1 were quantitated by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

A dose-dependent antiproliferative effect of 1,25-D3 was found in all PCa cells lines except ALVA-41.1,25-D3 was approximately 10 times as potent as its analogue 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 in inhibiting the growth of PC-3 cells. Also, the relative inhibitory ability of these compounds paralleled the strength of their binding affinities for the 1,25-D3 receptor, indicating that the antiproliferative effect may require a receptor-ligand interaction. HLA-ABC was expressed in PC-3, ALVA-41 and ALVA-101, but not in PPC-1 cells, while HLA-DR was not expressed on any of the tested cells. IFN-gammacould enhance or induce HLA-ABC but not HLA-DR expression in the tested cells. ICAM-1 was expressed in all cells and slightly upregulated by IFN-gamma.

CONCLUSION

In this study 1,25-D3 had an antiproliferative effect on 3 of the 4 examined PCa cell lines.

[Bone mineral density (BMD) of the calcaneus bone in 72 dialysis patients measured by ultrasonic bone absorptiometry]

BACKGROUND

To determine what factors contribute to and change BMD in dialysis patients.

METHODS

Bone parameters, namely, osteosono-assessment index (calculated by speed of sound and transmission index) were measured at calcaneus bone by ultrasonic bone absorptiometry with an Aloka Acoustic Osteoscreener (Model AOS-100). Seventy two patients were 62. 8 +/- 10.5 years of age (mean +/- SD) (range 36-81) and 70.8% were males; the patients had received dialytic therapy for 52.7 +/- 41.7 months (range 2-205). The effects of sex, age, height, weight, postmenoposal years, dialysis duration, various blood parameters, oral phosphorus binding agent (CaCO3 dosage) and oral vitamin D3 treatment (D3 dosage) on BMD were assessed statistically.

RESULT

BMD in male patients were significantly higher than those in female patients (Mann-Whitney test, p < 0.01). BMD showed significant correlations with age (Spearman's correlation coefficient r = -0.384, p < 0.01), height (r = 0.479, p < 0.00001), postmenoposal years (r = -0.692, p < 0.05), dialysis duration (r = 0.250, p < 0.01), blood Ca level (r = 0.292, p < 0.05) and CaCO3 dosage, postmenoposal years and dialysis duration were the variables that significantly correlated with the BMD (multiple correlation coefficient = 0.646).

Recognition of a special membrane antigen of squamous cell carcinoma in rats with a monoclonal antibody UB23

This article describes the recognition of a special membrane antigen of the rat squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) by a monoclonal antibody (mAb), UB23, and the characterization of the UB23 antigen expression in the implanted primary and metastatic SCC in rat models. The mAb UB23 was raised against the FF6 tumor, a well-differentiated rat SCC, and it recognized the 120- to 130-kD cell surface antigen in FF6 tumor cells. The UB23 antigen was found in frequently observed small 'basal' cells but not in keratinocytes, and an increased expression was seen in the cells at the interface with peritumoral stroma in both the implanted primary FF6 tumors and metastases. These results indicated that the UB23 antigen is closely related with the cell differentiation and invasion of FF6 cells, and could be useful for analyzing the mechanism of differentiation, invasion and metastasis of SCC in animal models.

[A case of water intoxication presenting as urinary retention in a psychotic patient]

A 43-year-old man, who had been treated for chronic schizophrenia, was admitted to our hospital with the chief complaint of urinary retention. His serum levels of sodium and osmotic value were low and serum creatine phosphokinase (CPK) was elevated to 2,624 mg/dl. He had been consuming about 9 liters of water a day for ten years. A diagnosis of water intoxication was made and treated successfully with water restriction and drip infusion. To our knowledge, this is the 23rd case of water intoxication with serum creatine phosphokinase elevation reported in the Japanese literature and this is the first case with the chief complaint of urinary retention.

Expression of ICAM-1 in implanted primary and metastatic squamous cell carcinomas in rats

FF6 tumor cells are derived from a spontaneous rat squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) which originally arose in the facial skin of a DA rat. In this study, FF6 tumor cells were implanted into rat oral mucosa to establish an ex vivo metastatic model. We analyzed the expression of intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) in the implanted primary and metastatic FF6 tumors by immuno-staining with a monoclonal antibody (mAb) against ICAM-1. The implanted primary FF6 cells showed strong expression of ICAM-1, whereas the tumor cells of metastatic lesions showed weak or negative expression of ICAM-1. By immunostaining with mAb OX6, a number of MHC class II-positive macrophages were detected in tumor mesenchyme and surrounding the metastatic foci. These results suggested that the local immune reaction in the lymph node influenced the expression of ICAM-1 on tumor cells, and that MHC class II-positive macrophages may play a role in transplanted tumor growth and metastases.

Analysis of allogenic lymphocytes in rat thymus following sublethal irradiation

The effects of allogeneic lymphocytes on the rat thymus following sublethal irradiation were investigated using immunofluorescence. The recovery of thymus weight following irradiation was delayed in rats 6 days after receiving lymphocytes compared to controls. Allogeneic cells forming colonies were detected by immunofluorescence in both the cortex and medulla of the host thymus, most frequently on day 15 when an appropriate number (3 x 10(6)) was injected. The allogeneic cells detected in the host thymus, presumably T lymphocytes, appeared to disturb thymic reconstitution following irradiation. However, double-immunofluorescence staining revealed that allogeneic cells did not affect the thymic stromal microenvironment. Allogeneic cells may have subsequently affected thymic tissue via cytokines. It is important to investigate not only the character of allogeneic cells in the host thymus but also the interactions of donor allogeneic cells, host immature lymphocytes and thymic epithelial cells because of the possibility that these allogeneic cells in the host thymus could prevent the rejection of allogeneic transplants.

Morphological and flow cytofluorometrical analyses of regenerated rat thymus after irradiation

Reconstituted rat thymuses were studied by immunohistochemistry, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and flow cytofluorometry on days 0, 1, 2, 3, 5, and 7 after whole-body sublethal irradiation (6 Gy). One day after irradiation, numerous apoptotic cells were seen in the cortical thymus; the percentage of the sub-G1 peak representing apoptotic cells was 8.9% in the DNA content histogram of cytofluorometry. On day 3, the thymic structure had been destroyed and no distinction was drawn between the cortex and medulla. In this stage, few thymocytes but many macrophages were present, and the percentage of the sub-G1 peak reached a peak at 13.0%. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporated cells gradually increased after irradiation, and immunohistochemically numerous apoptotic cells were found primarily in the cortex on day 7. These thymocytes showed some levels of electron density of the nucleus as revealed by TEM. The percentage of S phase cells did not change markedly (20-30%) based on one-color DNA content histograms, but the percentage of early S and S phase cells was extremely high on day 7 (70%). These data indicate that a part of DNA synthetic cells may result in apoptosis. The combination of immunohistochemistry, TEM and flow cytofluorometry to analyze DNA content and BrdU incorporation proved a useful tool for investigating the reconstituted thymus.

The effect of methylprednisolone on platinum kinetics and urinary enzyme excretion following intravenous cisplatin in vivo and on the growth inhibition of LLC-PK1 cells by cisplatin in vitro

In order to evaluate the mechanism of the protective action of methylprednisolone against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity, platinum kinetics and urinary enzyme excretion following intravenous cisplatin, with or without methylprednisolone, were studied in vivo. The growth inhibition of LLC-PK1 cells by cisplatin in the presence or absence of methylprednisolone was studied in vitro. Rats intravenously injected with cisplatin combined with subcutaneous methylprednisolone 4 h prior to the cisplatin injection excreted more platinum in urine than rats treated with cisplatin alone. Both plasma and kidney platinum concentrations in rats injected with both cisplatin and methylprednisolone were significantly lower than those in rats given cisplatin alone at 4 h after cisplatin injection. However, there was no significant difference in urinary excretion of lactate dehydrogenase, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase or N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase between methylprednisolone-treated rats and control rats. Methylprednisolone did not affect the inhibitory effects of cisplatin on the cell growth of LLC-PK1. These findings indicate that methylprednisolone-induced increase in urinary platinum excretion, accompanied by a decrease in plasma and kidney platinum concentrations following cisplatin injection in rats, may be one of the mechanisms responsible for the protective action of methylprednisolone.

Analysis of fetal rat liver using monoclonal antibodies

BACKGROUND

In previous studies, we developed several monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against fetal and adult rat liver to analyze the hemopoietic microenvironment of the fetal liver during the gestational period. In this study, we have developed two new mAbs against fetal rat liver cells and have examined the characteristics at various gestational ages of fetal liver and of adult liver.

METHODS

The characteristics of these monoclonal antibodies were demonstrated by examining several tissues using immunohistochemical staining and flow cytofluorometry.

RESULTS

Monoclonal antibodies HAM10 and HAM11 were developed against fetal rat liver cells. These reacted with the cytoplasm of fetal and adult hepatocytes. HAM10 antigen expression was strong at approximately day 18 of gestation in the active period of hemopoiesis in fetal rat liver but was much lower in adult liver. HAM10 antigen expression also increased in liver after partial hepatectomy and was reduced abruptly to a normal level thereafter. HAM11 antigen expression in fetal liver was weaker than that of HAM10 antigen expression. The degree of HAM11 antigen expression increased as gestation proceeded, reaching a maximum in adult liver.

CONCLUSIONS

Both HAM10 and HAM11 antigens may play a role in the morphogenesis of hepatocytes and in the hemopoietic microenvironment for hemopoietic cells. Moreover, HAM10 antigen is may play a role in hepatocyte proliferation in the fetal liver, whereas HAM11 antigen may contribute to the maturation of fetal- to the adult-type hepatocytes.

The protective effect of methylprednisolone against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in patients with urothelial tumors

BACKGROUND

Many attempts have been made to reduce the nephrotoxicity of the anticancer agent cisplatin but the number of clinically useful modalities is very limited. Our previous experiments demonstrated that in rats methylprednisolone significantly reduces the nephrotoxicity caused by cisplatin. The present clinical study was conducted to confirm the protective effects of methylprednisolone against cisplatin nephrotoxicity.

METHODS

Fourteen patients with urothelial tumors were injected with cisplatin according to the methotrexate, vinblastine, adriamycin, cisplatin (MVAC) therapy. Methylprednisolone was not administered during the first course of chemotherapy to provide a control, but was given in a dose of 2000 mg 2-3 hours before cisplatin during the second course of chemotherapy (treatment period) in each patient. Urinary excretion of N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) and gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase (GGTP), serum creatinine, and creatinine clearance (Ccr) were determined as indicators of the nephrotoxicity of cisplatin. Results were statistically analyzed by a paired t test to compare the nephrotoxic effects of cisplatin during the first course of chemotherapy (control period) with those during the second course of chemotherapy (treatment period).

RESULTS

Methylprednisolone did not significantly inhibit the elevation in urinary enzyme excretion or serum creatinine levels following the cisplatin injection. However, the Ccr level after cisplatin infusion in the treatment period was significantly higher than that observed in the control period.

CONCLUSION

The protective effects of methylprednisolone against cisplatin nephrotoxicity were indicated in this prospective clinical study.

Influence of continuous interleukin-2 administration via the portal vein on liver regeneration following partial hepatectomy in rats

We have reported the efficacy of intraarterial-combined immunochemotherapy including interleukin-2 (IL-2) for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). To further test this therapy for prevention of intrahepatic recurrence after hepatectomy, the influence of IL-2 on liver regeneration was examined using mitotic index (MI) and the bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) labeling index (LI) in 70% hepatectomized Donryu rats. In addition, gap junction appearance, which may change during liver regeneration, was analyzed using a monoclonal antibody (HAM8). Serum albumin, alanine transaminase, and total bilirubin (TB) levels were also evaluated. IL-2 (45,000 Japanese reference units [JRU]/d) or saline was administered continuously via the portal vein immediately after hepatectomy using an infusion pump. We also examined the influence of IL-2 on liver regeneration after hepatectomy with splenectomy. No difference in the weight of the liver, serum albumin, alanine transaminase, or TB was observed in any groups at 1, 2, or 4 days after hepatectomy. Neither IL-2 nor splenectomy influenced MI and BrdU LI at all three points. Gap junctions began to disappear after hepatectomy and reached a minimum on day 2 in all groups. Four days after hepatectomy, the density of the reappearing gap junctions was markedly lower in groups treated with IL-2 than in those receiving saline with or without splenectomy. However, the density returned to close to preoperative levels 6 days after hepatectomy in all groups. Continuous portal infusion of IL-2 transiently disturbed gap junction reappearance during liver regeneration. However, no other parameters of liver regeneration or liver functions differed. These results suggest that the liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy may be suppressed by the administration of IL-2, even though the suppression may not be harmful for overall recovery of the resected liver. However, it seems that hepatic IL-2 administration can be performed without serious complications after hepatectomy.

1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 stimulates phagocytosis but suppresses HLA-DR and CD13 antigen expression in human mononuclear phagocytes

This study investigated the regulatory activity of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25-[OH]2D3) on phagocytic cells obtained from normal human peripheral blood. Flow cytometric analysis enabled identification of two discrete populations of cells, one predominantly monocytes ("monocyte" gate) and one containing primarily lymphoid and other cell types ("lymphoid" gate). The monocyte-associated antigens CD13 and CD33 were highly expressed by cells in this monocyte gate and used to monitor this population. Following 5 days of culture, cells in the monocyte gate manifested high phagocytic activity as determined by ingestion of fluorescent carboxylmicrospheres and exhibited high expression of class II HLA-DR products. 1,25-(OH)2D3 profoundly upregulated phagocytic activity while downregulating HLA-DR antigen expression on the cells in the monocyte gate. Moreover, 1,25-(OH)2D3 also reduced cell surface CD13 expression on the cells with low but not high phagocytic activity in this gate. Proportional activities by the 1,24-(OH)2D3 and 24,25-(OH)2D3 metabolites indicated the regulatory effects are likely mediated by the 1,25-(OH)2D3 receptor (VDR). Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), a known modulator of monocyte/macrophage activity also markedly inhibited HLA-DR expression while enhancing the phagocytic activity of cells in the monocyte gate. In contrast to 1,25-(OH)2D3, PGE2 clearly upregulated CD13 expression in cells with high phagocyte activity. Since indomethacin, an inhibitor of PGE2 synthesis, failed to reverse the 1,25-(OH)2D3 induced inhibitory effect on HLA-DR expression, this effect is apparently not mediated through endogenous PGE2 synthesis. Based on these findings we speculate that 1,25-(OH)2D3 may be capable of acting as both an upregulating agent during natural immunity via the enhancement of phagocytosis by monocyte/macrophage populations and as a "downregulator" during acquired immune responses via an inhibitory effect on MHC class II antigen expression by professional antigen-presenting cells.

Major histocompatibility complex expression in muscle of rats with graft-versus-host disease

Immunohistochemical examination of rat skeletal muscle during graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), a systemic immune reaction, was performed to investigate specific immune reactivities focusing on major histocompatibility complex (MHC) expression and inflammatory cell infiltration of skeletal muscle during a systemic immune reaction. MHC class II expression and inflammatory cell infiltration did not increase. MHC class I was expressed along the contour of muscle fibres, and most strongly expressed by the cells which were distributed throughout the endomysium and perimysium. Seventy-six percent of these MHC class I+ cells carried endothelial cell-markers, while 24% of them did not. The latter cells were revealed not to be inflammatory cells such as lymphocytes, granulocytes or macrophages when examined by immunostaining using several exudate-cell markers. Neither were they myosatellite cells because they were located outside the basement membrane. These results may be useful for considering animal models of inflammatory myopathies such as polymyositis and dermatomyositis.

Immunohistochemical localization and biological significance of the phylogenically conserved thymus-brain antigen (UB-13 antigen) in skate, rat and human

A monoclonal antibody (UB-13) originally raised against the brain of the skate (Raja kenojei, a cartilaginous-fish) was found to react with lymphoid and brain tissues from many species when examined immunohistochemically. In rat and human thymus, UB-13 antigen was observed to be closely associated with reticular tissue in the medulla and cortex. Interestingly, a few or several thymocytes were encircled by the UB-13-reactive reticular tissue. At 14 days gestation, rat thymus consisted mainly of reticular epithelial tissue, after which strong thymocyte production started. At this stage, some of the reticular tissue was heavily stained with UB-13. In the thymus tissues of the irradiated and recovering rats, where reduction and massive reproduction of thymocytes were observed, extensive UB-13 antigen expression localized on the reticular epithelial tissue, an observation which may support the thymocyte re-population. These findings suggest that the antigen recognized by UB-13 may be important for thymocyte proliferation and maturation. UB-13 antigen was found in the fibrous structure of the molecular and granular layer of the human cerebellum. Some glial cells were also stained strongly with UB-13 in the human cerebellar or cerebral grey and white matter. In rat, glial cells, especially astroglias, and the endothelial structure of blood vessels were stained strongly with UB-13. These findings suggest that UB-13 may be a useful monoclonal antibody for analysis of brain-lymphoid antigen in many species.

[Effect of growth hormone and thyroxine on renal development in Snell pituitary dwarf mice]

To elucidate the effects of growth hormone (GH) and thyroxine (T4) on renal development, we biochemically and morphologically examined the renal tissue of Snell pituitary dwarf mice (dw/dw) at different developmental stages. Differences in DNA, RNA and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) content between the dwarf and normal control mice first became apparent on the 10th day of age, and from this time that of dwarf mice showed no further increase in DNA and RNA content and decrease in IGF-1 content, whereas that of the normal control mice continued to increase. These findings indicated that GH and T4 may have effects on the renal development, and deficiency of these hormones to affect renal development from the 10th day of age.

Analysis of cell surface antigens using anti-rat hepatocyte monoclonal antibodies, particularly HAM 1

The expression of antigens on rat hepatocytes was examined by immunoelectron microscopy using monoclonal antibody HAM 1. The antigen recognized by HAM 1 was expressed mainly on both sinusoidal and bile-canalicular faces and only sparsely on the contiguous face. All rat hepatoma cell lines examined were intensely labeled with HAM 1, but poorly labeled with HAM 3, HAM 4, and HAM 5, as revealed by flow cytofluorometry and radioimmunoassay. Expression levels of HAM 1 antigen on the AH 44 hepatoma cell line similar to the degree seen in normal liver were demonstrated by radioimmunoassay. HAM 1 antigen was also expressed weakly on lymphocytes, thymocytes, and some bone marrow cells, but not on red blood cells, and differed from the MHC class I antigen recognized by HAM 2 and OX 18. Significant amounts of cell surface antigens recognized by all the monoclonal antibodies (HAM 1-HAM 5) were confirmed by radioimmunoassay on the cell surface of primary cultured hepatocytes. These results suggest that the rat hepatoma cell lines employed are different from normal hepatocytes, that primary cultured hepatocytes are more similar to normal hepatocytes in the degree of expression of their cell surface antigens, and that HAM 1 antigen appears to be a significant antigen on both normal and transformed hepatocytes.

[Pyomyositis of iliopsoas muscle with infection of renal cyst: a case report]

We report a case of pyomyositis of iliopsoas muscle with infection of renal cyst. A 50-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital complaining of left lumbago, and we suspected that she had a left ureteral stone at first. Ultrasonogram and intravenous pyelography showed bilateral multilocular renal cyst and enlargement of the left iliopsoas muscle. Finally she was diagnosed with left pyomyositis of iliopsoas muscle with infection of renal cyst by ultrasonogram, computerized tomography scan and magnetic resonance imaging. She had no complaints after she had received antibiotic therapy for a week.

Changes in the distribution and intensity of alkaline phosphatase activity in rat lymph node and spleen cells after antigen stimulation

We investigated the reaction of the popliteal lymph nodes (PLN) to the injection of two antigens, keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), into the footpads of rats, as well as the changes occurring in the PLN after allogeneic cell stimulation. Changes in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of the lymph nodes were examined enzyme histochemically. Paralleling with PLN weight gain, increased ALP activity was observed in the medullary regions of the lymph nodes of stimulated rats. ALP reactivity in the stimulated lymph nodes was observed to be weak in the germinal centers and strong in the medullary regions. The spleens of rats subjected to systemic graft-vs.-host (GVH) reaction were examined in a similar fashion. The ALP-positive areas of the GVH spleens increased in size as compared with normal spleens. These positive areas of lymph node and spleen appear to correspond mainly to areas containing OX12-positive cells. These results suggest that enzyme-histochemical analysis of ALP activity together with immunohistochemical analysis of lymphocyte phenotypes may be a useful method for examining lymph node and spleen reactions to soluble and cellular antigens in rats.