Identification of principal constituents in enzymatically hydrolyzed coix extract

The structural elucidation of the main constituents in enzymatically hydrolyzed coix extract, a natural food preservative, was carried out. After peracetylation, five compounds, namely peracetylated forms of glucose, maltose, maltotriose, maltotetraose, and maltopentaose were isolated. The structures were determined by PFG HMQC and HMBC experiments. In addition, by using HPLC with an RI detector, the main components of this coix extract were identified as a mixture of oligosaccharides having one to seven glucose units coupled through alpha-(1-->4) linkages. Since this extract showed no antimicrobial activity, its preservative effect may be caused by its covering of the food surface, thereby blocking contact with air.

Interleukin-1beta in antigen-induced arthritis of the rabbit temporomandibular joint

The aim was to investigate joint perfusate levels of interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) in antigen-induced monoarthritis of the rabbit temporomandibular (TMJ) and knee joints. Twenty-four adult male New Zealand White rabbits were divided into three groups: a control group as well as TMJ arthritis and knee joint arthritis groups. After sensitization, unilateral arthritis was induced by intra-articular injection with ovalbumin and the contralateral joint was injected with saline 3 weeks after induction of arthritis. Joints were then perfused continuously with saline and samples were collected at 10-min intervals over a 50-min period. The IL-1beta concentrations in the samples were then analyzed. After killing the animals, the joints were examined histologically. The IL-1beta concentrations in the samples from the arthritic TMJs and knee joints were significantly higher than in the saline-injected and the control joints. Histological signs of chronic arthritis of similar severity were found in both joints. The IL-1beta levels in the samples from the arthritic TM and knee joints correlated with the histological severity of the arthritis, including pannus formation. In conclusion, this study shows that IL-1beta is released in the synovium of rabbit TMJs and knee joints during antigen-induced arthritis, and that high IL-1beta levels in synovial fluid are associated with histological signs of inflammation including, pannus tissue formation.

Expression of Fas and Fas ligand mRNA in rat and human preimplantation embryos

The Fas-Fas ligand (L) system is one of the major signalling pathways to induce apoptosis in various cells and tissues. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of the Fas-Fas L system in rat and human oocytes and preimplantation embryos. We determined the expression of Fas and Fas L mRNA of rat oocytes and embryos up to the blastocyst stage, and of human embryos at the 2- or 4-cell stage, using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and nested PCR techniques. Moreover, we investigated the expression of Fas mRNA in human fragmented embryos. In rat embryos, Fas mRNA was expressed at the 2-cell stage only, whereas Fas L mRNA was expressed in oocytes, and at the pronuclear (1-cell) and 2-cell stages. In human embryos, Fas mRNA was expressed at the 4-cell stage only, whereas Fas L mRNA was expressed at both 2- and 4-cell stages. Human fragmented embryos expressed both Fas and Fas L mRNA. Because simultaneous expression of Fas and Fas L mRNA occurred in 2-cell rat embryos and in 4-cell human embryos, the Fas-Fas L system might be involved in the apoptotic pathway in the early embryos of these species.

Biliary atresia with hyperandrogenic amenorrhea

The etiology of hyperandrogenic amenorrhea in a patient with biliary atresia successfully treated by a Kasai operation was unclear. Delayed puberty and menarche were evident at 16 years of age. Investigations showed no luteinizing hormone (LH)-follicle-stimulating hormone surge. A LH-releasing hormone provocative test showed a normal response. Peripheral aromatization of androgens appeared to function normally. Free testosterone (T) was normal, however, plasma levels of sex-hormone-binding globulin and total T were high. After menarche at 18 years of age, anovulatory menstrual cycles continued. A combination of estrogen and progesterone therapy was effective. A possible explanation may be that metabolic clearance of T is reduced in the presence of liver cirrhosis and a portosystemic shunt.

Involvement of annexin V in the antiproliferative effect of GnRH agonist on cultured human uterine leiomyoma cells

The objective of this study was to elucidate the role of annexin V, an endogenous inhibitor of protein kinase C (PKC), with regard to the antiproliferative effect of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist (buserelin) on cultured human uterine leiomyoma cells. Uterine leiomyoma tissue was collected from the surgical specimens of patients and cells from 37 specimens (15 cases) were cultured. For up to 96 h after the addition of buserelin to the cultured cells, a time-dependent antiproliferative effect was noted in the group to which 10(-5) mol/l buserelin was added. Both the intracellular concentration of annexin V and the expression of annexin V mRNA increased time-dependently with the addition of buserelin. The intracellular concentration of annexin V increased with the addition of PKC activator (12-O:-tetradecanoylphorbor-13-acetate; TPA) much as it did with the addition of buserelin, and the rise in the concentration caused by the addition of buserelin was completely attenuated by pretreatment with PKC inhibitor (calphostin C). Our findings suggest that buserelin inhibits cell proliferation in cultured human uterine leiomyoma cells accompanied with an increase in the intracellular concentration of annexin V, mediated, at least in part, by the activation of PKC.

The efficacy of nafamostat mesilate on the performance of a hybrid-artificial liver using a polyurethane foam/porcine hepatocyte spheroid culture system in human plasma

Nafamostat mesilate (FUT) is a protease inhibitor of complement activation. The present study investigates whether FUT protects porcine hepatocytes from being injured by human plasma in a multi-capillary polyurethane foam packed-bed culture system (MC-PUF) such as the hybrid-artificial liver (PUF-HAL). Human plasmas with 1 mM of added ammonia were perfused using a small-scale PUF-HAL with porcine hepatocytes. FUT was continuously infused (10 microg/ml, 50 microg/ml). The ammonia detoxification was maintained in human plasma for 24 hours and for 48 hours with FUT which suppressed the rapid increase of asparaginic acid aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT). After 60 hours of perfusion, hepatocyte spheroids completely collapsed in the human plasma, but a small amount of hepatocyte spheroid was maintained by FUT. The effect of FUT was slightly greater at 50 microg/ml than at 10 microg/ml. Our results suggest that FUT has protective effects against porcine hepatocytes in human plasma, and our PUF-HAL using porcine hepatocytes can function in human plasma for about 48 hours with FUT.

Expression of a system L neutral amino acid transporter at the blood-brain barrier

Amino acid transport system L has been proposed to be one of the major nutrient transport systems at the blood-brain barrier. Using immunohistochemical analyses, a system L transporter LAT1 was shown to be expressed in the brain capillary endothelial cells in rats. Because LAT1 was coexpressed with 4F2 heavy chain which brings LAT1 to the plasma membrane, LAT1 is proposed to be functional in the plasma membrane of brain capillary endothelial cells. Both LAT1 and 4F2hc immunoreactivities were detected in a double line appearance surrounding endothelial cell nuclei, suggesting both proteins are present in the luminal and abluminal membranes. LAT1 is, thus, a blood-brain barrier system L transporter responsible for the permeation of aromatic or branched-chain amino acids and amino acid-related drugs such as L-DOPA.

Mass screening for human papillomavirus type 16 infection in infertile couples

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) type 16 infection among in vitro fertilization (IVF) couples and to identify clinical conditions related to HPV infection.

STUDY DESIGN

The presence of HPV type 16 DNA in the uterine cervix of 192 women who underwent IVF and in 99 semen samples collected from their husbands were determined by the nested polymerase chain reaction method.

RESULTS

Ten women (5.5%) and 4 men (4.0%) were found to be HPV type 16 DNA positive. However, presence of the HPV type 16 DNA in the cervix or semen did not have any impact on IVF treatment variables, including presence of tubal factor, incidence of pregnancies and abortions, and semen quality. Only one of four women, whose partner's semen was HPV type 16 DNA positive, had a DNA positive cervix.

CONCLUSION

These data provide useful information for counseling infertile couples with HPV type 16 infection.

Chaperonin 10 in the rat oocytes and early embryos: its expression and activity for early pregnancy factor

PROBLEM

The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of chaperonin (cpn) 10 and cpn 60 mRNA in oocytes or embryos, and to further explore the possibility that early pregnancy factor (EPF) is identical with cpn 10.

METHOD OF STUDY

The expressions of cpn 10 and cpn 60 mRNA in oocytes and embryos at the different stages (1-cell, 2-cell, 8-cell, and morula) were examined by polymerase chain reaction techniques. The EPF activity of native rat cpn 10 isolated from rat livers was evaluated by the rosette inhibition test.

RESULTS

Similar levels of mRNA of cpn 10 and cpn 60 were detected in oocytes and embryos at every stage. There were no detectable EPF activities in the native cpn 10. Immunoprecipitation using polyclonal antibodies against cpn 10 did not affect the activity of EPF in the pregnant rat serum.

CONCLUSION

Our results do not support the hypothesis that cpn 10 is identical with EPF.

Fas antigen expression and outcome of oral squamous cell carcinoma

Paraffin sections of biopsy specimens obtained from 46 patients with oral squamous cell carcinomas were stained with both anti-peptide antibody against human Fas antigen and monoclonal mouse antibody against human proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). The patients received chemotherapy with a combination of carboplatin and peplomycin sulfate or mitomycin C and peplomycin sulfate before surgery. The relation between the expression of Fas antigen and the clinical features of each case was examined. The correlation between PCNA and Fas antigen expression was also studied. The mean PCNA labeling index of the 22 Fas-negative cases was 46.9%, which was significantly higher than that of the 24 Fas-positive cases (39.5%). Strong correlations were found between the expression of Fas antigen and the response to chemotherapy, tumor recurrence, and survival. The Fas-negative group had only a minor response to chemotherapy and a poor outcome, whereas the Fas-positive group had a better response to chemotherapy and a good outcome. Although lymph node metastasis was significantly related to survival, there was no correlation between Fas antigen expression and lymph node metastasis. The Kaplan-Meier survival curve of patients positive for Fas antigen was significantly better than that of patients negative for Fas antigen. Our results suggest that Fas antigen expression is an independent predictor of outcome whose usefulness should be evaluated in prospective studies.

[5-FU concentration in the serum and the tumor tissue after administration of UFT 200 mg/day to patients over 80 years of age with oral cancer]

UFT was administered orally at a dosage of 200 mg/day, 2 times a day, to patients over 80 years of age with oral cancer. The concentration of 5-FU in the serum and tumor tissue, as well as the side effects, were investigated. The results were as follows: 1. The concentration of 5-FU in the serum peaked (0.017 to 0.066 microgram/ml) 1 or 2 hours after UFT administration. The concentration 8 hours after administration was relatively high (0.016 to 0.041 microgram/ml). 2. The 5-FU concentrations in the tumor tissues in 3 out of 5 cases were greater than 0.05 microgram/g, which is considered to be the effective level. The concentration tended to be higher with increased duration of administration. 3. A minor side effect, bone marrow dysfunction, was observed. No effect on the function of the liver or digestive system was observed.

Fas expression and Fas monoclonal antibody-induced apoptosis in a human squamous cell carcinoma cell line, SCC-25

Fas antigen is a cell surface protein that mediates apoptosis via signal transduction from the plasma membrane. Using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), messenger RNA for Fas antigen was detected in the human oral squamous cell carcinoma cell line, SCC-25. In serum-free medium, a monoclonal anti-Fas antibody (CH-11) induced Fas antigen expression in SCC-25 cells, as determined by immunocytochemistry and Western blotting, using an anti-Fas polyclonal antibody (Fas D) as primary antibody. Fas antigen was localized to the cytoplasm and the cell membrane. The molecular weight of the protein recognized by Western blot analysis was 35,000, consistent with the value reported for the Fas antigen. The CH-11 antibody did not induce Fas antigen expression in serum-containing medium. To determine whether CH-11 could induce apoptosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma, we examined its effects on the survival of cultured SCC-25 cells. Anti-Fas monoclonal antibody in serum-free medium induced cytotoxicity in SCC-25 cells in a time-dependent manner up to 8 h, as determined by phase-contrast microscopy and WST-1 assay. Marked nuclear condensation and fragmentation of chromatin were observed in the CH-11-treated cells using Hoechst 33342 staining. This anti-Fas monoclonal antibody also induced DNA ladder formation in SCC-25 cells in a time-dependent manner. The present results indicate that the anti-Fas monoclonal antibody (CH-11) may mediate apoptosis by binding to the Fas antigen expressed in SCC-25 cells.

Complications of temporomandibular joint arthroscopy: a retrospective analysis of 301 lysis and lavage procedures performed using the triangulation technique

PURPOSE

This study evaluated the complications of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthroscopic lysis and lavage performed using the triangulation technique.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The 202 consecutive patients (301 joints) who underwent arthroscopic lysis and lavage between 1992 and 1995 were retrospectively surveyed. The preoperative diagnosis of all patients was anterior disc displacement without reduction.

RESULTS

Complications were observed in 31 (10.3%) of 301 cases of arthroscopic lysis and lavage. Of these, otologic complications were found in 26 cases (8.6%): blood clots in the external auditory canal in 9; laceration of external auditory canal in 7; partial hearing loss in 5; ear fullness in 2; vertigo in 1; and perforation of tympanic membrane with laceration of external auditory canal in 1. Neurologic injuries were found in 5 cases (1.7%): fifth cranial nerve injuries in 3; and seventh cranial nerve injuries in 2. No other complications were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

A high level of understanding of the regional anatomy helps reduce the complications associated with arthroscopic lysis and lavage in the TMJ.

Germ cell-specific heat shock protein 105 binds to p53 in a temperature-sensitive manner in rat testis

Heat shock protein (HSP)105 is a testis-specific and HSP90-related protein. The aim of this study was to explore the functions of HSP105 in the rat testis. Signals of HSP105 were detected immunohistochemically in the germ cells and translocated from the cytoplasm to the nucleus at 2 days after experimental induction of cryptorchidism. In cultured testicular germ cells, a significant increase in the expression of HSP105 in response to heat stress (37 degrees C) was detected in the insoluble protein fractions. Several binding proteins were isolated from rat testis using a HSP105 antibody immunoaffinity column, and p53, the tumor suppressor gene product, was copurified with these. Furthermore, immunoprecipitation using antibodies to p53 led to coprecipitation of HSP105 together with p53 after culturing germ cells at 32.5 degrees C, but not at 37 or 42 degrees C. In conclusion, HSP105 is specifically localized in the germ cells and may translocate into the nucleus after heat shock. HSP105 is suggested to form a complex with p53 at the scrotal temperature, and dissociate from it at suprascrotal temperatures. At scrotal temperature, HSP105 may thus contribute to the stabilization of p53 proteins in the cytoplasm of the germ cells, preventing the potential induction of apoptosis by p53.

Presence of activin signal transduction in normal ovarian cells and epithelial ovarian carcinoma

In this study, we have investigated the expression of inhibin subunits and activin receptors (ActRs) in normal and malignant ovarian cells. Each product of the inhibin subunits (alpha, betaa, betab) and activin receptors (ActRs) amplified by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction were detected as a single band in human granulosa cells, surface epithelial cells (OSE), and the ovarian cancer cell lines OVCAR 3 and SKOV 3. Western blot analysis was performed using polyclonal antibodies against ActR IIa or IIb peptides based on 13 COOH-terminal amino acids; cultured human granulosa cells were used as a positive control. Using ActR IIa antibody, one major band corresponding to approximately 80 kDa and one minor band corresponding to 105 kDa were observed in the samples. One single band at approximately 60 kDa was detected in OVCAR 3 and a 50 kDa band was detected with ActR IIb antibody in cultured granulosa cell, OSE and SKOV 3. Although no detectable change was induced in Smad 4 mRNA in OVCAR 3, Smad 2 mRNA levels were increased during 48 h treatment with activin A (50 ng ml(-1)). These data provide a better understanding as the first step in the mechanism of action of the activin in the epithelial ovarian carcinoma.

Changes in chewing pattern after surgically induced disc displacement in the rabbit temporomandibular joint

PURPOSE

This study investigated whether surgically induced disc displacement (DD) in the rabbit temporomandibular joint leads to joint dysfunction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fourteen adult Japanese white rabbits were divided into two groups. Eight animals had surgically induced DD, and 6 were used as a sham operation group. Jaw movement trajectories during chewing were recorded preoperatively and 2 weeks after induction of DD. Postoperative recordings after administration of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) were also performed to eliminate any influence of joint pain on chewing. Vertical and horizontal ranges of chewing movement, duration of the opening and closing phase, and total cycle of chewing were analyzed. Thereafter, the presence of induced DD was confirmed histologically.

RESULTS

In the sham group, the rhythm and pattern of chewing were almost the same as preoperatively. In the experimental group, increase in the cycle duration and decrease in the vertical and horizontal ranges of movement were observed. When the sham and experimental groups were compared, there was a decreased ratio of vertical movement in the experimental animals. There was no effect of preadministration of the NSAID in either the DD or sham group. All of the experimental animals had total anterior DD histologically.

CONCLUSION

Changes in the chewing pattern of the experimental animals occurred from mechanical interference of the displaced disc. This animal model can be used as a model for human internal derangement.

Laparoscopy-assisted Ruge procedure for the creation of a neovagina in a patient with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To describe the successful use of a laparoscopy-assisted Ruge procedure for the reconstruction of a vagina in a patient with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome.

DESIGN

Case report.

SETTING

A university hospital.

PATIENT(S)

A 19-year-old Japanese woman with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome.

INTERVENTION(S)

Creation of a neovagina by a laparoscopy-assisted Ruge technique.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Clinical examinations were performed during the follow-up period. The depth and diameter of the neovagina were measured by vaginography. Patient satisfaction also was determined.

RESULT(S)

The neovagina was 12 cm in length and 4 cm in diameter. The mucosa of the neovagina was pinkish and had a moist surface. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed.

CONCLUSION(S)

The use of an isolated segment of the sigmoid colon for vaginal construction has the advantages of providing a sufficient length of neovagina and not requiring immediate postoperative self-dilatation. We believe that our procedure has various advantages in addition to those of the original Ruge method, including its minimally invasive nature and excellent cosmetic results. Further, a laparoscopy-assisted operation allows for the diagnosis of uterine defects and the creation of a neovagina at the same time.

Biliary atresia with hyperandrogenic amenorrhea: case report

The etiology of hyperandrogenic amenorrhea in a 16 year-old girl after a successful Kasai operation for biliary atresia was unclear. Delayed puberty and menarche were observed. There was no luteinizing hormone-follicular stimulating hormone surge. A provocative luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone test showed a normal response. Peripheral aromatization of androgens appeared to function normally. However, plasma levels of sex hormone-binding globulin and total testosterone were high and the free testosterone level was normal. The anovulatory menstrual cycle continued after menarche at 18 years of age. A combination of estrogen and progesterone therapy was effective. The etiology might be associated with delayed metabolic clearance of testosterone accompanied by the compensatory cirrhosis and portosystemic shunt.

Role of radical oxygen species in rat testicular germ cell apoptosis induced by heat stress

The present study was designed to clarify the role of radical oxygen species in testicular germ cell apoptosis induced by heat stress. Testicular cells isolated from immature rats were cultured with or without elevated temperature, and occurrence of apoptosis in these cells was defined by the appearance of DNA fragmentation following agarose gel electrophoresis and by flow cytometric quantification of apoptotic cells. At 32.5 degrees C, < 1% of cells showed signs of apoptosis throughout the culture period, whereas under heat stress, the proportion of apoptotic cells increased to 5% at 37 degrees C after 24 h of culture, or to 14% after 1-h exposure at 43 degrees C followed by 23-h culture at 32.5 degrees C. Similar to the effect of heat stress, exogenously supplied oxygen free radicals also induced apoptosis. In contrast, treatment with catalase significantly attenuated heat stress-induced apoptosis. Furthermore, heat stress of testicular cells was associated with an increased intracellular peroxide level as measured by a fluorescent probe, 2', 7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate. In conclusion, our data indicate the involvement of radical oxygen species during testicular germ cell apoptosis induced by heat stress. This study provides a useful in vitro model for the study of testicular germ cell apoptosis.

Induction of apoptosis in human oral squamous carcinoma cell lines by protein phosphatase inhibitors

To determine whether protein phosphorylation and dephosphorylation can affect apoptosis in oral epithelial cells we examined the effects of protein phosphatase inhibitors, okadaic acid (OA) and calyculin A (CA), on cultured human oral squamous carcinoma (SCC) cell line, SCC-25 cells. After reaching subconfluence these cells were exposed to varying concentrations of the protein phosphatase inhibitors, OA and CA. Both OA and CA induced cell death in SCC-25 cells in a dose-dependent fashion as determined by phase-contrast microscopy and WST-1 cell viability assay. By using the Hoechst 33342 staining, marked nuclear condensation and fragmentation of chromatin was observed. DNA ladder formation also was detected in SCC-25 cells by treatment with OA and CA. The induced nuclear fragmentation and DNA ladder formation were dose-dependent with maximal effect at concentrations of 20 nM OA and 2 nM CA, respectively. OA also induced DNA ladder formation in other human oral SCC cell lines, SCCKN and SCCTF. To further determine if new gene transcription and protein synthesis are required for OA-induced apoptosis in SCC-25 cells, the cells were treated for 48 h with varying concentrations of cycloheximide in the presence of 20 nM OA. Cycloheximide did not protect the cells against OA-induced cytotoxicity and DNA ladder formation. Based on the known selectivity of OA and CA, the present results indicate that the pathway of the apoptosis in the cultured oral SCC cells is in part regulated by protein phosphatase type 1 and type 2A. Our results also indicate that new protein synthesis is not involved in OA-induced apoptosis in SCC-25 cells.

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour in the maxilla associated with von Recklinghausen's disease

Malignant transformation of neurofibromatosis is one of the most serious complications of von Recklinghausen's disease (VRD). The most common associated malignancy is the malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour (MPNST). Few cases of MPNST associated with VRD in the maxillary region have been reported. This report describes a rare case of MPNST in the maxilla and the aggressive nature of MPNST associated with VRD.

[A case of systemic lupus erythematosus with interstitial myocarditis leading to sudden death]

A 29-year-old female with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was admitted because of exertional dyspnea in January, 1996. The diagnosis of SLE was made on the basis of malar rash, discoid rash, polyarthritis, leukopenia, positive antinuclear antibody and focal glomerulonephritis in 1991. She did not have any cardiac symptoms in 1994, when the electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities, such as poor R wave progression and right axis deviation, were present. On admission, she developed congestive heart failure without any signs of active SLE. Laboratory findings were unremarkable. There were new ECG abnormalities, such as left atrial overload and low voltage in limb leads. Chest roentgenogram showed mild pulmonary congestion and marked cardiomegaly. Echocardiography showed enlargement and diffuse hypokinesis of the left ventricle. Cardiac catheterization confirmed that the coronary arteries were normal and that the left ventricular function was poor (ejection fraction, 21%). Myocardial biopsy obtained from left ventricle revealed interstitial fibrosis. After furosemide, digoxin and captril were administered with predonisolone (PSL), her symptoms gradually improved. Since the Holter monitoring showed nonsustained ventricular tachycardia, the doses of PSL and mexiletine were increased up to 20 mg and 300 mg daily, respectively. Unexpectedly, she was found dead in her hospital room in May, 1996. The postmortem findings of the heart revealed mild infiltration of inflammatory cells, predominantly lymphocytes, and plasma cells, and interstitial fibrosis, which were consistent with interstitial myocarditis. In this case ECG abnormalities preceded cardiac symptoms, which may suggest that myocarditis subclinically developed. Serum creatinine kinase levels had not been elevated throughout the entire course. While several cases of acute myocarditis associated with a flare of SLE have been reported, there were few cases regarding interstitial myocarditis that chronically progress and can be fatal. This case is thought to be suggestive of elucidating the pathogenesis of lupus myocarditis.

Inhibitory effects of nitric oxide on the expression and activity of aromatase in human granulosa cells

The aim of the present study was to explore the mechanisms by which nitric oxide (NO) may inhibit aromatase activity of human granulosa cells. Ovarian granulosa-luteal cells, obtained from patients undergoing in-vitro fertilization (IVF) were cultured in the presence of NO-related substances. After 24 h of culture, aromatase activity of the cells was significantly inhibited by treatment with the NO donors, SNAP or NOC12 at > or =10(-4) M in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment with NO catabolites or a peroxynitrite-releasing compound, SIN1, had no significant influence. Treatment with SNAP at 10(-3) M decreased relative aromatase mRNA values by 72% (P<0.05) and intracellular cyclic AMP concentrations by 53% (P<0.01). However, treatment with H89, an inhibitor of protein kinase A, did not inhibit aromatase activity. Since there were no significant effects of NO catabolites or peroxinitrite, the inhibitory action of NO donors on aromatase must be related to NO release. The action of NO is, in part, attributable to the down-regulation of aromatase gene transcription. Although NO decreased intracellular cAMP values, down-regulation of aromatase gene transcription may not be mediated by protein kinase A-dependent mechanisms.

Hepatitis G virus infection in a high-risk subgroup of hospitalized dental patients

OBJECTIVE

The prevalence of hepatitis G virus infection was evaluated in dental patients whose clinical laboratory test results were positive for hepatitis C virus antibody, hepatitis B virus surface antigen, or elevated serum alanine transaminase concentrations.

STUDY DESIGN

Frozen serum samples from patients with hepatitis C virus antibody (n = 63), hepatitis B virus surface antigen (n = 20), or alanine transaminase concentrations greater than 100 IU (n = 14) were assessed for GB virus C (GBV-C)/hepatitis G virus RNA by a reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Six of 63 patients with hepatitis C virus antibodies had serum hepatitis G virus RNA (9.5%), and 2 of 20 subjects with hepatitis B virus surface antigen had hepatitis G virus RNA (10.0%). None of 14 patients whose alanine transaminase concentration was greater than 100 IU/L had hepatitis G virus RNA. Of 4 subjects with both hepatitis C virus antibody and hepatitis B virus surface antigen, 2 had hepatitis G virus RNA (50%). In the total study population (N = 92), 6 subjects (6.5%) had hepatitis G virus RNA. All hepatitis G virus-infected patients also had hepatitis C virus antibody. Neither serum alanine transaminase nor aspartate transaminase concentrations were different between subjects with and subjects without hepatitis G virus RNA. The lack of a relationship between hepatitis G virus infection and elevation of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase might suggest that this virus is not truly a hepatitis virus.

CONCLUSIONS

Hospitalized dental patients are infected with hepatitis G virus at a prevalence similar to or slightly higher than that seen in the general population. Dentists should pay close attention to infection control with respect to the potential new hepatitis virus known as hepatitis G virus.

[Surgical management for acute aortic dissection with organ ischemia]

In a series of one hundred and one cases of surgical treatment for acute aortic dissection between January 1986 and September 1997, we evaluated 29 cases presenting with organ ischemia. These consisted of 23 cases of acute type A dissection (type A) and 6 cases of type B dissection (type B). Organ ischemia was diagnosed by (1) aortography, (2) a retrospective review of the history and (3) physical examination or laboratory data. The 23 surgical cases of acute type A dissection consisted of, coronary ischemia 8 cases, cerebral and spinal cord ischemia 9 cases, intestinal ischemia 3 cases, lower extremities ischemia 10 cases, and plural organs ischemia 8 cases. In the 6 cases of acute type B, we noted 4 intestinal ischemias and 2 lower extremities ischemias. The operative mortality rates when subdivided according to ischemic organ were: coronary ischemia 50%, cerebral and spinal cord ischemia 11%, intestinal ischemia type A 33%, type B 50%, and lower extremities ischemia type A 33%, type B 0%. The operative mortality rates, especially for patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction or intestinal ischemia, were relatively high. In cases of acute aortic dissection when organ ischemia occurred, we believed that it was necessary to perform early thoracic aortic repair and reconstruction of the ischemic organ.

Localization of Fas antigen in oral squamous cell carcinoma

Fas antigen is a cell-surface protein that transduces an apoptotic signal from the cell surface into the cytoplasm. The localization of Fas antigen in human oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) was examined by immunohistochemistry using a monospecific polyclonal antibody with a high titre. This antibody, designated as Fas D, was raised against a synthetic polypeptide segment corresponding to a specific extracellular domain of human Fas antigen (aa 104-114). Thirty-eight specimens of oral SCCs were stained with Fas D antibody and 26 (68%) reacted intensely. The specimens were graded as 'well', 'moderately', or 'poorly differentiated', according to the histopathological criteria. Out of 24 cases of the well differentiated tumours examined, 22 had reacted to Fas staining. The tumour cells formed nests that encompassed keratin pearls; staining was confined to cytoplasmic granules of peripheral cells. Among the moderately differentiated tumours, 4 out of 11 cases had reacted to Fas staining. No Fas-positive cells were observed in the poorly differentiated tumours, but only three specimens were examined. The expression of Fas antigen seems to be related to the degree of tumour differentiation.

Spontaneous conception after the birth of infants conceived through in vitro fertilization treatment

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the incidence of spontaneous conception after the birth of infants conceived through IVF in couples with subfertility caused by endometriosis, a mild male factor, or unexplained factors, and to identify clinical conditions related to the occurrence of spontaneous conception.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis.

SETTING

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University School of Medicine, Akita, Japan.

PATIENT(S)

One hundred forty-two women who conceived through IVF and 25 of the 142 women who subsequently conceived spontaneously.

INTERVENTION(S)

Patient characteristics and IVF data were obtained from hospital records, and follow-up data were collected through telephone interviews.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Cumulative conception rate.

RESULT(S)

The cumulative conception rate at 60 months after the delivery of infants conceived through IVF was 18%, with most conceptions occurring within 2 years of delivery. Proportional hazard analysis indicated that patient age was the most important clinical variable related to the occurrence of spontaneous conception.

CONCLUSION(S)

This study provides information that will be useful in counseling subfertile couples who have conceived through the use of IVF.

Cell survival effect of activin against heat shock stress on OVCAR3

Activin has been known as the hormone protein which regulates either cell proliferation or cell differentiation. Recently, it has also been reported that activin may have cell survival function. In this study, we have investigated, 1) the expression of inhibin subunits and activin receptors (ActRs) in ovarian carcinoma cell line (OVCAR3), 2) the binding property between activin and its receptors under the exposure to stress, and 3) the effect of activin on cell proliferation. All of inhibin subunits and ActR Ia, IIa and IIb mRNA were amplified by RT-PCR in OVCAR3. By Western blot analysis, ActR IIa and IIb proteins were detected. The binding property between activin and ActRs was analyzed with the fixed complex, using chemical cross linker. The bigger molecular weight signals, which had been shown to form the heterotrimeric complex among activin, ActR type I and ActR type II were detected after cross linking. These upper signals were apparently increased by rh-Activin and decreased by rh-Follistatin. Therefore, it was suggested that they were resultant from activin and Act-R complex. OVCAR3 was exposed to the stress (42C, 1 hour heat shock), the protein level of ActR IIa increased and ActR IIb decreased from about 3 h to 24 h after the exposure to the heat stress (HS). On the other hand, the complex between activin and ActR IIa and IIb increased from 3 h after the exposure to HS. To investigate the effect of activin and follistatin on OVCAR3 proliferation after the exposure to HS, we counted the cell number at 96 h after the treatment with activin or follistatin in the condition either with or without HS. Proliferation of the cell in the presence of HS was stimulated by rh-Activin and inhibited by rh-Follistatin. These data suggest that activin might have the function to survive and to proliferate OVCAR3, due to, at least in part the increase in its binding capacity to ActRs through either autocrine or paracrine manner.

Direct measurement of CD34+ blood stem cell absolute counts by flow cytometry

For the collection of adequate numbers of peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC) for PBSC transplantation, an accurate quantification of circulating CD34+ stem cells is required for deciding the optimal time of the collection. To enumerate peripheral blood (PB) CD34+ stem cells, the percentage of CD34+ cells in the gated PB mononuclear cells should be multiplied by the percentage of the gated mononuclear cells among white blood cells (WBC) and by the total WBC count. Accordingly, a minor difference in the measured percentage of the CD34+ cells can lead to a major difference in the PB CD34+ cell concentration. In the present study, we measured the concentration of PB CD34+ stem cells with a flow cytometer designed to provide direct absolute counts of cell subsets from a single instrument. Whole blood was stained with a phycoerythrin-conjugated anti-CD34 monoclonal antibody, and, after the lysis of red blood cells, CD34+ cells were counted in a fraction of the lymphocyte and monocyte gate. The accuracy of our method was demonstrated in an experiment in which various dilutions of known numbers of CD34+ leukemic cells were mixed with normal blood; the predicted value of the CD34+ cell count was observed. The concentration of CD34+ cells in leukapheresis products was measured both by our direct assay and an indirect assay that calculates the number from the percentage of CD34+ cells in mononuclear cells, and our assay was shown to produce less variation. Further, our assay showed a significant correlation between the concentration of mobilized CD34+ cells in the PB and the number of harvested CD34+ cells in leukapheresis. These findings indicate that the monitoring of the concentration of PB CD34+ cells by the present method can be used to predict the number of stem cells collected in leukapheresis. This procedure is easy to perform and can be applied to daily monitoring to decide the appropriate timing for harvest of mobilized stem cells.

[Two cases of polymyositis associated with interstitial pneumonia with anti-OJ (isoleucyl tRNA synthetase) antibodies]

We present two cases of polymyositis (PM) associated with interstitial pneumonia (IP) whose sera contain autoantibodies to OJ (isoleucyl tRNA synthetase). The first patient is a 51 year-old female who was diagnosed as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and treated with gold and corticosteroid at another hospital. She was admitted to Keio University Hospital due to worsening of dyspnea on exertion and polyarthritis. Laboratory findings revealed elevation of serum CK and LDH. A diagnosis of PM was made based on the myogenic pattern of EMG and pathological feature by muscle biopsy. Chest radiography and CT showed interstitial fibrosis. Because of clinical deterioration, the dose of corticosteroid was increased (prednisolone 50 mg/day) and her symptom was stabilized. The second patient, a 62 year-old male, was admitted to Kawasaki Municipal Hospital because of dyspnea on exertion, polyarthritis, and fever. He was diagnosed as PM associated with IP on the basis of his clinical and laboratory findings, and chest radiography. He was treated with methylprednisolone pulse therapy (800 mg/day for three days) and his symptoms were improved. Both patients were found to have autoantibodies to OJ. Autoantibodies to aminoacyl tRNA synthetase have been described to be associated with myositis and/or IP. In North American, it was reported that all patients with anti-OJ had either myositis or IP or both. This suggests that anti-OJ was commonly associated with the anti-synthetase syndrome observed with other anti-synthetases. This is the first report of Japanese patients with anti-OJ antibody. The clinical features of these patients were likely to be similar to those observed in North American patients. However, further studies are necessary to clarify the precise clinical significance of this antibody.

Sertoli-Leydig cell tumour complicated by X chromosomal mosaicism

We describe a case of well-differentiated Sertoli-Leydig cell tumour (SLCT) of the ovary. A 48-year-old Japanese woman had had symptoms of virilization, i.e. alopecia and facial hair, for 8 years. Although the patient had given birth to three normal children, laboratory investigations revealed an elevated serum level of free testosterone and tripartite mosaicism (45X/46XX/47XXX). Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a tumour of the left ovary. After oophorectomy, the serum level of free testosterone returned to the normal range and symptoms of virilization resolved. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a patient with SLCT who had tripartite mosaicism and had given birth to normal children. Although the aetiology of SLCT is not known, we believe that SLCT is associated with sex chromosomal abnormalities at least in some cases.

Possible contribution of follicular interleukin-1beta to nitric oxide generation in human pre-ovulatory follicles

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between follicular nitric oxide (NO) metabolite concentrations and several related variables, with special reference to follicular interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta). The follicular fluid from the leading and secondary follicles was collected individually from 20 women undergoing in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment, and the concentrations of nitrite (NO2-) and nitrate (NO3-) were determined fluorometrically using 2,3-diaminonaphthalene. Both follicular nitrite (r = 0.42, P < 0.01) and nitrate (r = 0.49, P < 0.001) were found to be significantly correlated with follicular IL-1beta concentrations. There were also significant positive correlations between follicular nitrate and the number of oocytes retrieved (P < 0.01) and serum oestradiol concentration on the day of human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) administration (P < 0.05). When follicular cells were incubated in vitro with 10 ng/ml of IL-1beta for 24 h, nitrate generation was significantly (P < 0.01) elevated compared with the control. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that follicular IL-1beta and the number of developing follicles are significant variables that affect follicular NO concentrations, and points to the possible contribution of IL-1beta to NO generation in human preovulatory follicles.

[Toxic shock-like syndrome after acupuncturation]

A 80-year-olkd male was admitted to our hospital because of severe pain and swelling on his left lower leg on January 23, 1996. He had received an acupuncture to both legs because of intermittent claudication once a week from July, 1995 to January 18, 1996. On the next day of the last acupuncture, pain and swelling on his left leg appeared. On admission, his left leg showed diffuse swelling and redness with blisters. We diagnosed this patient as toxic shock-like syndrome (TSLS), based on the rapid exacerbation of the skin changes, necrotizing superficial fasciitis, multiple organ failure with shock, and the detection of group A streptococcus from culture samples obtained from both skin blister and necrotic fascia. He recovered from the disease by amputation of the involved leg and antibiotic therapy. Acupuncture could have been the cause of streptococcal infection.

Increased oxidative deoxyribonucleic acid damage in the spermatozoa of infertile male patients

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether a high level of oxidative DNA damage in spermatozoa occurs in infertile male patients and to examine the influence of antioxidant treatments on the levels of this damage.

DESIGN

Controlled clinical study and uncontrolled pilot study.

SETTING

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University School of Medicine.

PATIENT(S)

Nineteen infertile male and 17 control patients.

INTERVENTION(S)

The levels of oxidative DNA damage in spermatozoa of infertile male and control patients were compared. In addition, 14 infertile males were given antioxidants for 2 months.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

The levels of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, a form of oxidative damage, in the spermatozoa were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection.

RESULT(S)

The levels of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine in sperm DNA were significantly higher in male infertile patients than in the control patients (1.5 +/- 0.2 versus 1.0 +/- 0.1 per 10(5) deoxyguanosine) and were correlated with sperm concentrations in ejaculates. Antioxidant treatment resulted in significant positive effects on sperm concentrations, with a significant reduction in sperm 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine levels (from 1.5 +/- 0.2 to 1.1 +/- 0.1 per 10(5) deoxyguanosine).

CONCLUSION(S)

Our present data demonstrate an association between the level of oxidative DNA damage in spermatozoa and male infertility and point to the possible use of antioxidants to reduce this damage.

[A case report--typhoid fever complicated with liver and gallbladder abscess, treated for long-time as fever of unknown origin]

A 25-year-old male admitted to Kawasaki municipal hospital with the diagnosis of typhoid fever. He had noticed high fever since one month ago, and had been treated with prednisolone with the diagnosis of fever of unknown origin in a hospital. Then he had admitted to St. Marianna University Hospital, and Salmonella Typhi had been detected from his blood and stool. On admission, multiple liver abscess were detected by abdominal ultrasonography. S. Typhi in bile was not eliminated with CP and AMPC, but he was successfully treated with cholecystectomy and the chemotherapy of LVFX. Abscess formation was found in the resected gall bladder wall. Typhoid nodule in the lymph node, liver or other organs is a well known pathological change in the typhoid fever. But abscess formation in the liver or other organs is rare. In this case, multiple abscess is characteristic and this cause is thought to be induced by the factors that the period from onset of typhoid fever to beginning of effective therapy was too long, and that steroid therapy was done without antibiotic therapy.

Activation of plasma kinin system correlates with severe coagulation disorders in patients with ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

The aim of this study was to evaluate status of plasma kinin system in patients with ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), in order to investigate whether activation of the plasma kinin system correlates with increased blood coagulability. In the first part of the study, concentrations of plasma prekallikrein (PK) in OHSS cycles (n = 13) were monitored from the day of human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) administration to the mid-luteal phase, and were compared with those of control cycles (n = 17). The average value of PK in OHSS cycles began to decrease on day 8, and by day 10 was significantly lower than that of control cycles (86 +/- 6 versus 106 +/- 4%, P <0.01). The time course of changes in PK concentration correlated well with the clinical condition of OHSS patients. In the second part of the study, we obtained data from 26 patients who were hospitalized because of severe OHSS, to investigate the correlation between PK and other haemostatic markers. OHSS patients with severe PK reduction (<80% normal, n = 9) demonstrated significantly higher values of plasma thrombin-antithrombin III and plasmin-alpha2 antiplasmin, and more severe haemoconcentration, compared to those OHSS patients who had no reduction in PK (n = 17). In conclusion, our data suggest that activation of the plasma kinin system occurs specifically and occasionally in OHSS patients, and is associated with increased blood coagulability. Thus, when an OHSS patient demonstrates a low value of plasma PK, more careful management is required to prevent thromboembolic complications.

Evidence of proacrosin molecule abnormality as a possible cause of low acrosin activity and unexplained failure of fertilization in vitro

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the molecular abnormality of proacrosin is associated with an unexplained failure of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and low acrosin activity in human infertility. Seventeen infertile men, whose spermatozoa appeared to be normal but did not fertilize using a conventional IVF technique, were included in this study. Proacrosin molecules from each patient were screened with electrophoresis and Western blotting using either anti-human proacrosin or anti-boar acrosin polyclonal antibodies. The bands of proacrosin appeared equally on the sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) at an identical site and reacted equally with human proacrosin antibodies in all patients studied. The anti-boar acrosin antibodies cross-reacted with the proacrosin bands of the patients in all but two cases. The two patients also demonstrated lower levels of total acrosin activity and different peptide maps of the isolated proacrosin. In conclusion, the molecular abnormality of proacrosin, which is reflected by a lack of cross-reactivity to the anti-boar acrosin antibodies, is associated with low acrosin activity and may explain some cases of unexplained failure of human IVF treatment.

Immunohistochemical detection of Fas antigen in oral epithelia

A monospecific and high titer polyclonal antibody, designated as Fas D, raised against synthetic polypeptides selected from a part of the human Fas antigen (aa 104-114), was used to identify the Fas antigen in human oral epithelia in normal and pathological states. The human gingival proteins had been extracted and analysed by an ABC (avidin-biotin complex) immunoblotting technique. The antibody interacted with a single band in gingival proteins with an estimated molecular weight of 35,000, which is in good agreement with that calculated from amino acid sequences of the human Fas antigen. Using an indirect immunohistochemical method, the antibody localized on the stratum spinosum and the basal part of the stratum corneum of normal human gingiva. Specimens obtained from patients with odontogenic keratocysts, leukoplakia, lichen planus, and squamous cell carcinoma were also stained with the antibody. The pattern of the Fas antigen distribution in oral stratified squamous epithelia was, with some overlapping, characteristic for each disease.