Association of genetic polymorphisms in CYP19 and CYP1A1 with the oestrogen receptor-positive breast cancer risk

Since tamoxifen has been shown to reduce the risk of oestrogen receptor (ER)-positive, but not ER-negative, breast cancers in a chemoprevention trial (P-1), it is important to develop assays to assess risk factors for ER-positive breast cancer in order to appropriately select candidates for chemoprevention with tamoxifen. Thus, the significance of genetic polymorphisms of genes involved in oestrogen biosynthesis (CYP19) and metabolism (CYP1A1) as a risk factor for ER-positive breast cancers was evaluated. A case-control study was conducted with 257 breast cancer patients and 191 healthy female controls. Two polymorphisms, CYP19 (TTTA repeats) in intron 4 and CYP1A1 6235C/T in the 3' non-coding region, and their association with the breast cancer risk after adjustment for the other epidemiological risk factors were examined. CYP19 (TTTA)7(-3bp) allele carriers showed a significantly (P<0.05) increased risk of ER-positive breast cancers (Odds Ratio (OR)=1.72, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 1.10-2.69), but not ER-negative breast cancers. CYP1A1 6235C allele carriers showed a non-significant (P=0.06) trend towards a decreased risk of ER-positive breast cancers (OR=0.65, 95% CI 0.42-1.02), but not ER-negative breast cancers. The combination of these two polymorphisms was found to be more useful in the assessment of the ER-positive breast cancer risk (OR=3.00, 95% CI=1.56-5.74) than the CYP19 (TTTA)7(-3bp) polymorphism alone. The combination of CYP19 (TTTA)7(-3bp) and CYP1A1 6235C/T polymorphisms is associated with an ER-positive, but not ER-negative, breast cancer risk, and, thus, would be useful in the selection of candidates for chemoprevention with tamoxifen.

Combined study with FDG PET and Tl SPECT in patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy

This study aimed to determine whether combined examinations of myocardial 2-[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography (FDG PET) and stress-redistribution 201Tl single-photon emission computed tomography (Tl SPECT) were useful in clarifying myocardial ischaemia and evaluating the prognosis in patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDCM). Twenty-two patients with IDCM underwent echocardiography, cardiac catheterization, FDG PET, and Tl SPECT. In scintigraphic analysis, the total defect score (TDS) was semiquantitatively determined as the sum of scores of the 17 left ventricular (LV) segments with a 5-point scale (0 as normal to 4 as absent). Patients were classified according to the scintigraphic findings as follows: eight patients with small defects on Tl and FDG (TDS < or = 20) (group I), eight patients with small defects on FDG (TDS < or = 20) with FDG uptake increased relative to Tl or 'mismatch' (group II), and six patients with large defects on FDG and Tl (TDS >20) (group III). Eleven patients (50%) showed reversible defects on Tl and all showed preserved FDG uptake. The patients in group III had significantly lower LV ejection fraction (LVEF) (P<0.05, respectively) and a poorer prognosis as shown by the Kaplan-Meier event-free curve compared with those in groups I and II (P<0.01, respectively). Although patients in group II had significantly greater TDS on Tl compared with those in group I (P<0.01), no significant differences in LVEF and prognosis were found between patients in groups I and II. In multivariate analysis, a TDS on FDG revealed an independent predictor of subsequent cardiac events. In conclusion, such mismatched areas can be assumed to consist of impaired but viable myocardium, and may be associated with ischaemia of the microvasculature. Impaired myocardial glucose metabolism is a more powerful predictor of future cardiac events than perfusion abnormality in patients with IDCM.

Evaluation of left ventricular function using electrocardiographically gated myocardial SPECT with (123)I-labeled fatty acid analog

Electrocardiographically (ECG) gated myocardial SPECT with (99m)Tc-tetrofosmin has been used widely to assess left ventricular (LV) function. However, the accuracy of variables using ECG gated myocardial SPECT with beta-methyl-p-(123)I-iodophenylpentadecanoic acid (BMIPP) has not been well defined.

METHODS

Thirty-six patients (29 men, 7 women; mean age, 61.6 +/- 15.6 y) with ischemic heart disease underwent ECG gated myocardial SPECT with (123)I-BMIPP and with (99m)Tc-tetrofosmin and left ventriculography (LVG) within 1 wk. LV ejection fraction (LVEF), LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), and LV end-systolic volume (LVESV) were determined on gated SPECT using commercially available software for automatic data analysis. These volume-related items on LVG were calculated with an area-length method and were estimated by 2 independent observers to evaluate interobserver validity. The regional wall motion with these methods was assessed visually.

RESULTS

LVEF was 41.1% +/- 12.5% on gated SPECT with (123)I-BMIPP, 44.5% +/- 13.1% on gated SPECT with (99m)Tc-tetrofosmin, and 46.0% +/- 12.7% on LVG. Global LV function and regional wall motion between both gated SPECT procedures had excellent correlation (LVEF, r = 0.943; LVEDV, r = 0.934; LVESV, r = 0.952; regional wall motion, kappa = 0.92). However, the correlations of global LV function and regional wall motion between each gated SPECT and LVG were significantly lower. Gated SPECT with (123)I-BMIPP showed the same interobserver validity as gated SPECT with (99m)Tc-tetrofosmin.

CONCLUSION

Gated SPECT with (123)I-BMIPP provides high accuracy with regard to LV function and is sufficiently applicable for use in clinical SPECT. This technique can simultaneously reveal myocardial fatty acid metabolism and LV function, which may be useful to evaluate various cardiac diseases.

Involvement of up-regulation of 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 in maintenance of intratumoral high estradiol levels in postmenopausal breast cancers

Estradiol (E2) and estrone (E1) levels as well as mRNA expression levels of aromatase, sulfatase and 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (17beta-HSD1) in breast cancer tissues were studied to elucidate the mechanism involved in the maintenance of the intratumoral high E2 levels in postmenopausal patients with very low serum E2 levels. Intratumoral E2 levels of postmenopausal patients (127.2 +/- 17.5 pg/g) (mean +/- SE) were not significantly different from those of premenopausal patients (110.1 +/- 10.1 pg/g) (p = 0.36). The mRNA expression levels of aromatase and sulfatase, determined by a quantitative real-time PCR, were not significantly different between premenopausal and postmenopausal breast cancers, but 17beta-HSD1 mRNA expression levels were significantly higher in postmenopausal than premenopausal breast cancers (p < 0.05). Intratumoral E2/E1 ratios were significantly higher in postmenopausal than premenopausal breast cancers (p < 0.01). These results demonstrate that the increased conversion from E1 to E2 catalyzed by 17beta-HSD1 may play an important role in the maintenance of the intratumoral high E2 levels in postmenopausal patients.

Experimental study of oversized grafts in a canine living-donor lobar lung transplantation model

BACKGROUND

For infants and small children, organ transplantation is limited by the size discrepancy between donor and recipient. To address this problem, the use of over-sized grafts from living-relative donors could potentially expand the donor pool. The aim of this experimental study was to evaluate the effect of oversized grafts on early pulmonary function and to identify an indicator for acceptable size discrepancy.

METHODS

Fourteen bilateral lobar lung allotransplant operations were performed without cardiopulmonary bypass in weight mismatched pairs of dogs. Animals were divided into 2 groups: Group I (n = 7), donor/recipient lung volume ratio < 2.85; Group II (n = 7), donor/recipient lung volume ratio >2.85. Pulmonary function of the recipient was measured before chest closure, after chest closure, and after the ventilator was removed.

RESULTS

Pulmonary vascular resistance and airway pressure significantly increased in Group II after chest closure (1493 +/- 195 dynes sec cm(-5) and 14.4 +/- 0.9 mm Hg vs 2784 +/- 140 dynes sec cm(-5) and 23.4 +/- 1.2 mm Hg, p < 0.001). After the ventilator was removed, all recipients in Group I showed PaO2 > 239 mm Hg and PaCO2 < 76 mm Hg, whereas, all recipients in Group II showed PaO2 < 116 mm Hg and PaCO2 > 169 mm Hg. The donor/recipient chest circumference ratio was less than 1.3 in all but 1 dog in Group I.

CONCLUSIONS

Acceptable, oversized grafts provide adequate pulmonary function, although excessively oversized grafts cause significant impairment in pulmonary function after chest closure. Chest circumference provides useful size-match criteria when oversized grafts are used in this canine experimental model.

Effects of hostility and lifestyle on coronary heart disease among middle-aged urban Japanese

OBJECTIVE

To explore the association between multi-dimensional aspects of hostility and coronary heart disease among middle-aged urban Japanese.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

We conducted a case-control study. Cases were consecutive patients with acute coronary syndrome admitted to a hospital in Japan. Fifty-three patients (45 men and 8 women) aged 35 to 65 were enrolled. For each case, two sex and age (+/-2 years) matched controls were recruited from among participants in a health check-up program at a health promotion center located in the same area as the hospital. Two questionnaires, both with four components, were used to measure hostility and coping with anger: the one was for anger, hostility, physical aggression and verbal aggression, and the other for aggression, social inhibition, guilt, and controlled affect.

RESULTS

The scores of all components from two questionnaires were higher for cases than controls, but the differences were not significant. Multivariate analysis showed that anger, fat intake, alcohol consumption and house size were significantly associated with the etiology of acute coronary syndrome.

CONCLUSION

Anger, lifestyle, and socioeconomic status play important roles for the etiology of coronary heart disease in middle-aged urban Japanese.

Expression of cytokines and transcription factors in photocoagulated human retinal pigment epithelial cells

BACKGROUND

It has been shown that scatter photocoagulation induces regression of retinal neovascularization, but the mechanism for this effect is not completely understood. The main focus of our research is to determine the mechanism for the beneficial effects of photocoagulation. In the present study, we quantified the expression of growth factors and transcription factors that inhibit or induce angiogenesis in photocoagulated human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells in vitro.

METHODS

RPE cells were grown to confluence, and RNA was isolated from the RPE cells with or without photocoagulation. The following growth factors, their receptors and transcription factors were examined by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR): transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta 1, basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), kinase insert domain-containing receptor (KDR/flk-1), hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1, ETS-1, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappa B), interleukin-8 (IL-8).

RESULTS

Laser photocoagulation increased the expression of TGF-beta 1. Expression of angiogenic factors bFGF, VEGF, IL-8 and their transcription factor, ETS1, was also increased. However, the up-regulation of these factors was observed early (6 h) after photocoagulation. Seventy-two hours after photocoagulation, when RPE cells were repaired, the expression of VEGF, IL-8, ETS-1, and NF-kappa B was decreased to the levels before photocoagulation.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that TGF-beta produced by photocoagulated RPE cells and the down-regulation of angiogenic factors in repaired RPE cells, in all likelihood, play an important role in the processes that occur after laser photocoagulation.

Fibroblast growth factor-2 decreases hyperoxia-induced photoreceptor cell death in mice

Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) has neurotrophic effects in vitro and in vivo. It has been demonstrated to decrease photoreceptor cell death in rats exposed to constant light and in rats with an inherited defect in retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) phagocytosis, but the effects of intravitreous injections of FGF2 in mice are equivocal. In this study, we used transgenic mice with increased expression of FGF2 in photoreceptors (rhodopsin promoter/FGF2 transgenics) to investigate the effects of sustained increased expression of FGF2 in mice with various types of photoreceptor degeneration, including rd mice that are homozygous for mutated phosphodiesterase beta subunit, Q344ter mice that undergo photoreceptor degeneration because of expression of mutated rhodopsin, and mice exposed to 75% oxygen for 1 or 2 weeks. At P21, the outer nuclear layer was markedly reduced in rd mice or Q344ter mice regardless of whether they inherited the rhodopsin promoter/FGF2 transgene. However, after 2 weeks of exposure to 75% oxygen, outer nuclear layer thickness was significantly reduced in littermate control mice compared to FGF2 transgenic mice (P = 0.0001). These data indicate that increased expression of FGF2 in photoreceptors protects them from hyperoxia-induced damage, but does not decrease cell death related to expression of mutated proteins involved in the phototransduction pathway. This suggests that FGF2 protects photoreceptors from oxidative damage, which may play a role in complex genetic diseases such as age-related macular degeneration.

Fluvastatin suppresses oxidative stress and fibrosis in the interstitium of mouse kidneys with unilateral ureteral obstruction

BACKGROUND

Recently, we demonstrated increased oxidative stress in the interstitium of ureteral obstructed kidneys based on the increased expression of heme oxygenase-1 and immunohistochemical detection of advanced glycation end products (AGE) in the interstitium. Antioxidant therapy may have a therapeutic potential toward interstitial fibrosis of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) kidneys. Fluvastatin is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor and has been demonstrated to have an antioxidant activity in vitro.

METHODS

The effects of fluvastatin on UUO kidneys from the viewpoints of antioxidant action in vivo and antifibrosis action were studied. To investigate the antioxidant action and its therapeutic efficacy of fluvastatin in UUO kidneys, AGE accumulation and fibrosis in the obstructed kidneys was compared among vehicle-, pravastatin-, or fluvastatin-treated (10 or 40 mg/kg/day) groups.

RESULTS

Tubulointerstitial fibrosis was significantly attenuated in fluvastatin-treated animals. Fluvastatin significantly suppressed the degree of immunostaining of AGE in UUO kidneys.

CONCLUSIONS

These results provide evidence for the antioxidant action of fluvastatin in vivo. The decreased interstitial fibrosis along with a decreased oxidative stress marker in the interstitial lesion strongly suggests the existence of a causal relationship between them. Fluvastatin may have therapeutic value in slowing or preventing interstitial fibrosis in progressive renal disease.

Normalization of retinal vascular permeability in experimental diabetes with genistein

PURPOSE

To study the effects of genistein, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, on retinal vascular permeability in an experimental diabetic rat model.

METHODS

Seventy-two rats were equally divided into four groups: (1) nondiabetic control group, (2) diabetic control group, (3) diabetic rats receiving 150 mg genistein/kg food, and (4) diabetic rats receiving 300 mg genistein/kg food. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin injection in the three diabetic groups. Rats were fed diets with or without genistein and followed for 6 months. Retinal vascular permeability was assessed by measuring radiolabeled sucrose leakage into the retina and by Western blot analysis for total retinal albumin. Retinal phosphotyrosine levels and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) were also evaluated by Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

Diabetic control rats had markedly increased retinal vascular leakage of radiolabeled sucrose compared with nondiabetic control rats. Diabetic rats receiving oral genistein had significantly less retinal vascular leakage of radiolabeled sucrose than diabetic control rats in a dose-response fashion. Diabetic control rats had increased levels of phosphotyrosine, retinal albumin, and PCNA by Western blot analysis compared with nondiabetic control rats. Rats receiving 300 mg of genistein had decreased retinal albumin by Western blot analysis. Western blot analysis demonstrated a dose-response decrease in retinal phosphotyrosine levels and PCNA in genistein-treated diabetic rats compared with diabetic control rats.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term oral administration of genistein significantly inhibits retinal vascular leakage in experimentally induced diabetic rats. Tyrosine kinase inhibition may be a useful pharmacological approach for the treatment of diabetic-induced retinal vascular leakage.

Pigment epithelium-derived factor inhibits retinal and choroidal neovascularization

In this study, we investigated whether overexpression of pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) by gene transfer can inhibit neovascularization by testing its effect in three different models of ocular neovascularization. Intravitreous injection of an adenoviral vector encoding PEDF resulted in expression of PEDF mRNA in the eye measured by RT-PCR and increased immunohistochemical staining for PEDF protein throughout the retina. In mice with laser-induced rupture of Bruch's membrane, choroidal neovascularization was significantly reduced after intravitreous injection of PEDF vector compared to injection of null vector or no injection. Subretinal injection of the PEDF vector resulted in prominent staining for PEDF in retinal pigmented epithelial cells and strong inhibition of choroidal neovascularization. In two models of retinal neovascularization (transgenic mice with increased expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in photoreceptors and mice with oxygen-induced ischemic retinopathy), intravitreous injection of null vector resulted in decreased neovascularization compared to no injection, but intravitreous injection of PEDF vector resulted in further inhibition of neovascularization that was statistically significant. These data suggest that sustained increased intraocular expression of PEDF by gene therapy might provide a promising approach for treatment of ocular neovascularization.

Spontaneous arterial baroreflex control of the heart rate during head-down tilt in heat-stressed humans

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the effect of raised body temperature per se during acute heat stress on the spontaneous arterial baroreflex control of heart rate (fc) in humans. To investigate whether unloading of cardiopulmonary baroreceptors during whole-body heating would alter the arterial baroreflex control of fc, we controlled loading of the cardiopulmonary baroreceptors by head-down tilt (HDT) at angles of 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 15 degrees, and 30 degrees during heat stress produced by hot-water-perfused suits. The sensitivity of the arterial baroreceptor-cardiac reflex was calculated from the spontaneous changes in beat-to-beat arterial pressure and fc. As an index of cardiopulmonary baroreceptor loading, the left atrial diameter (LAD) was measured by echocardiography. During whole-body heating, the LAD decreased with the rising body core temperature and increased with the HDT. The decreased LAD during heating almost recovered to the normothermic control level by 10 degrees HDT. In the supine position, cardiac baroreflex sensitivity remained unchanged during heating. Arterial pressure, fc and cardiac baroreflex sensitivity were not changed by HDT ranging from 5 degrees to 30 degrees during heating. These results suggest that cardiac baroreflex sensitivity remain unchanged during graded loading of the cardiopulmonary baroreceptors in heat-stressed humans. Also, we conclude that the sensitivity of the spontaneous arterial baroreflex controlling the fc is not influenced by raised body temperature per se during acute heat stress.

Inhibition of choroidal neovascularization by intravenous injection of adenoviral vectors expressing secretable endostatin

Endostatin is a cleavage product of collagen XVIII that inhibits tumor angiogenesis and growth. Interferon alpha2a blocks tumor angiogenesis and causes regression of hemangiomas, but has no effect on choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Therefore, inhibitors of tumor angiogenesis do not necessarily inhibit ocular neovascularization. In this study, we used an intravenous injection of adenoviral vectors containing a sig-mEndo transgene consisting of murine immunoglobulin kappa-chain leader sequence coupled to sequence coding for murine endostatin to investigate the effect of high serum levels of endostatin on CNV in mice. Mice injected with a construct in which sig-mEndo expression was driven by the Rous sarcoma virus promoter had moderately high serum levels of endostatin and significantly smaller CNV lesions at sites of laser-induced rupture of Bruch's membrane than mice injected with null vector. Mice injected with a construct in which sig-mEndo was driven by the simian cytomegalovirus promoter had approximately 10-fold higher endostatin serum levels and had nearly complete prevention of CNV. There was a strong inverse correlation between endostatin serum level and area of CNV. This study provides proof of principle that gene therapy to increase levels of endostatin can prevent the development of CNV and may provide a new treatment for the leading cause of severe loss of vision in patients with age-related macular degeneration.

Fluvastatin suppresses oxidative stress and fibrosis in the interstitium of mouse kidneys with unilateral ureteral obstruction

BACKGROUND

Recently, we demonstrated increased oxidative stress in the interstitium of ureteral obstructed kidneys based on the increased expression of heme oxygenase-1 and immunohistochemical detection of advanced glycation end products (AGE) in the interstitium. Antioxidant therapy may have a therapeutic potential toward interstitial fibrosis of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) kidneys. Fluvastatin is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor and has been demonstrated to have an antioxidant activity in vitro.

METHODS

The effects of fluvastatin on UUO kidneys from the viewpoints of antioxidant action in vivo and antifibrosis action were studied. To investigate the antioxidant action and its therapeutic efficacy of fluvastatin in UUO kidneys, AGE accumulation and fibrosis in the obstructed kidneys was compared among vehicle-, pravastatin-, or fluvastatin-treated (10 or 40 mg/kg/day) groups.

RESULTS

Tubulointerstitial fibrosis was significantly attenuated in fluvastatin-treated animals. Fluvastatin significantly suppressed the degree of immunostaining of AGE in UUO kidneys.

CONCLUSIONS

These results provide evidence for the antioxidant action of fluvastatin in vivo. The decreased interstitial fibrosis along with a decreased oxidative stress marker in the interstitial lesion strongly suggests the existence of a causal relationship between them. Fluvastatin may have therapeutic value in slowing or preventing interstitial fibrosis in progressive renal disease.

A gene encoding a hydrophobin, fvh1, is specifically expressed after the induction of fruiting in the edible mushroom Flammulina velutipes

A cDNA clone of the gene fvh1 was previously isolated from a preprimordial cDNA library made from the basidiomycete Flammulina velutipes. Sequence analysis showed that fvh1 encoded for a hydrophobin, a small fungal protein usually secreted by filamentous fungi. FVH1 had a highly conserved arrangement of eight cysteine residues, a putative N-terminal signal sequence and a hydropathy pattern characteristics of class I hydrophobin. A genomic fvh1 clone was isolated from a F. velutipes genomic DNA library and sequenced. Several putative promoter elements and three small introns of fvh1 were identified in this clone. Southern blot analysis of genomic DNA showed that fvh1 was a single copy gene. Northern analysis indicated that fvh1 was specifically and abundantly expressed in mycelia after the induction of fruiting and during fruit body initiation. It was not expressed in mycelia before the induction of fruiting or in mature fruit bodies.

cDNA cloning and genetic polymorphism of the swine major histocompatibility complex (SLA) class II DMA gene

cDNA clones corresponding to the swine histocompatibility complex (SLA: swine leucocyte antigen)-DM alpha chain were isolated using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products from the third exon in the human HLA-DMA gene as a probe. Amino acid comparative analysis revealed that these clones were more closely related to the bovine and human DMA genes than to the other swine class II genes alpha chain genes, DRA, DQA and DOA. These results suggest that the SLA-DMA gene is expressed and may function, like HLA-DM, as an important modulator in class II restricted antigen processing in swine. Furthermore, based on the sequences and PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) patterns in the SLA-DMA gene, no allelic variation was recognized in the second exon, but five allelic variations were recognized in the third exon in five different breeds of swine. These DMA alleles were defined by variation at four nucleotide positions. Two of these alleles resulted in an amino acid substitution. These results suggest that SLA-DMA has little polymorphism as observed in HLA-DMA and mouse H2-Ma.

A lectin from an ascomycete mushroom, Melastiza chateri: no synthesis of the lectin in mycelial isolate

Using an affinity adsorbent prepared from L-fucose and starch, a lectin was isolated from fruit bodies of an ascomycete mushroom, Melastiza chateri. The lectin was found to cross-react with antiserum against Aleuria aurantia lectin (AAL), that had been obtained from another ascomycete mushroom. The N-terminal amino acid sequence was analyzed, and among 20 residues 12 were the same as AAL. The molecular mass of the lectin estimated by SDS-PAGE was approximately 40 kDa, which is larger than that of AAL. Mycelial isolate was obtained from M. chateri by germinating ascospores, and identified by analyzing restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP) of DNA. The isolate from M. chateri did not synthesize the lectin, although the isolate from A. aurantia had been known to synthesize AAL as much as the fruit body.

Domain construction of cherry-tomato lectin: relation to newly found 42-kDa protein

In the early stage of ripening of cherry-tomato fruits (Lycopersicon esculentum var. cherry), the lectin activity increased logarithmically and reached a plateau at day 10 after flowering. During purification of lectin from ripe and unripe fruits, a 42-kDa protein was found abundantly in unripe fruits. The protein cross-reacted with anti-cherry-tomato-lectin serum, retained chitin-binding ability, but showed no lectin activity. Comparative studies between the structure of the lectin and the 42-kDa protein were done. N-Terminal amino acid sequences of the lectin, peptides derived from the S-pyridylethylated lectin, and fragments generated by limited proteolysis of the native lectin showed that the lectin was comprised of three domains, Hyp-rich, Cys-rich, and Gln-rich, and the alignment of them was as this order from the N-terminus. Studies on the 42-kDa protein showed that it contained two of the three domains, Cys-rich and Gln-rich, but the amino acid sequence analysis showed that the protein should be a product of another gene.

Sequential evaluation of left ventricular myocardial performance in children after anthracycline therapy

This study prospectively assessed subclinical cardiotoxicity in patients undergoing chemotherapy by using the Tei index combining systolic and diastolic time intervals. A significant difference in the Tei index was observed between patients who received a low dose and those who received a moderate to high dose of anthracycline antibiotic drugs. The Tei index is a sensitive, accurate, and easy approach for detecting subclinical anthracycline cardiotoxicity.

Cloned mice derived from somatic cell nuclei

In 1997, a cloned sheep "Dolly" was produced by nuclear transfer of somatic cell. The first birth of cloned mice derived from some somatic cells were succeeded in 1998. At present, it is shown that somatic cells, cumulus cells, fibroblasts and Sertoli cells can be used to the study of cloned animal as nuclear donor. In this study investigation was designed to compare with efficiency on the production of cloned embryos by using the microinjection and the electrofusion methods for nuclear transfer. Oocyte enucleation was performed with a micromanipulator. The oocyte was held by holding pipette, and was enucleated using a beveled pipette. Microinjection method: Cell's nucleus injection was carried out by piezo-micromanipulator. Cytochalasin B treated cumulus cell was aspirated into a injection pipette, and was broken its plasma membrane using the injection pipette. Then, the cumulus cell was injected into the enucleated ooplasm directly. Electrofusion method: The cell was aspirated into a beveled pipette, and then an aspirated cell was inserted into perivitelline space. Then, the pair of enucleated oocyte and cell was fused using electrical cell fusion apparatus. The reconstituted embryos were activated after nuclear transfer using St2+. Reconstituted embryos had been produced by the microinjection showed the embryonic development to over 8-cell stages. But, the rate of fragmentation of reconstituted embryos by the microinjection showed a little high rate in comparison with the electrofusion. When some reconstituted embryos by the microinjection were transplanted to pseudopregnant females' oviduct, 9 fetuses were observed at 14 days post coitum.

High density cultivation of two strains of iron-oxidizing bacteria through reduction of ferric iron by intermittent electrolysis

Electrolytic cultivation was applied to Leptospirillum ferrooxidans strains P3A and CF27, which use ferrous iron to respire aerobically. Ferrous iron was supplied to the bacteria by intermittent electrolytic reduction of ferric iron as electron shuttle using an electrode. The yield of L. ferrooxidans and strain CF27 reached 20- and 50-fold, respectively, higher density than were achievable yields without electrolysis. The time required to obtain high density depended not on the growth ratio, but rather on the original growth rate of each strain.

Enhancement of dedifferentiation and myoid differentiation of retinal pigment epithelial cells by platelet derived growth factor

AIMS

To clarify factor(s) involved in morphological dedifferentiation of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells in vitro from mitotically quiescent hexagonal cells to flattened cells that lack epithelial characteristics and concurrent myoid differentiation.

METHODS

RPE cells which retained their differentiated hexagonal morphology were isolated from bovine eyes by mechanical pipetting. Dedifferentiation and myoid differentiation of RPE cells were examined by microscopic observation and immunohistochemical analysis using antibodies against cytokeratin, an epithelial marker, and alpha smooth muscle actin, a marker of myoid differentiation. The contractile ability of RPE cells was evaluated by collagen gel contraction assay.

RESULTS

Platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) enhanced morphological changes in the RPE from hexagonal-shaped cells to flattened cells. Coincident with this morphological alteration, the expression of cytokeratin in RPE cells decreased and expression of alpha smooth muscle actin began and was increased in a time dependent manner. These alterations were completely blocked by collagen synthesis inhibitors. Interleukin 1beta, transforming growth factor beta1, insulin-like growth factor I, and basic fibroblast growth factor had little or no effect on the dedifferentiation. PDGF also potentiated the RPE induced collagen gel contraction.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate that PDGF enhanced the dedifferentiation of RPE cells, the initial step of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), as well as myoid differentiation and collagen gel contraction. PDGF may have a versatile role in the pathogenesis of PVR involving collagen synthesis.

Cell injury unmasks a latent proangiogenic phenotype in mice with increased expression of FGF2 in the retina

Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) is a potent mitogen for vascular endothelial cells and exogenous administration of FGF2 stimulates angiogenesis. However, increased expression of FGF2 in the retina does not cause angiogenesis. One possible explanation is that FGF2 may not be capable of initiating angiogenesis unless it is administered in pharmacologic levels or there is coexpression of another angiogenic factor. Alternatively, there may be control mechanisms that sequester FGF2 in vivo, preventing it from manifesting its in vitro angiogenic activity. We tested the first hypothesis by crossing mice that express FGF2 in the retina with mice that express vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the retina. Surprisingly, despite comparable levels of VEGF expression, mice that expressed both FGF2 and VEGF had significantly less neovascularization than mice that expressed VEGF alone. The second hypothesis was tested by treating Rho/FGF2 transgenic mice with low-intensity laser photocoagulation that disrupts photoreceptors, but does not rupture Bruch's membrane, or intense laser that ruptures Bruch's membrane. In Rho/FGF2 transgenics, but not wild type mice, choroidal neovascularization developed in areas of low-intensity laser. Both wild type and transgenic mice developed choroidal neovascularization in areas of intense laser that ruptured Bruch's membrane, but the area of neovascularization was significantly greater in transgenics. These data suggest that increased retinal expression of FGF2 is angiogenic only when it is accompanied by cell injury that overcomes sequestration control mechanisms.

The second eye of Japanese patients with unilateral exudative age related macular degeneration

AIM

To clarify the incidence of choroidal neovascularisation (CNV) and predisposing findings for development of CNV in the second eye of Japanese patients with unilateral exudative age related macular degeneration (AMD).

METHODS

The second eyes of unilaterally affected patients with exudative (neovascular) AMD treated in our clinic during the past 10 years (1988-97) were carefully followed up for more than a year. Evidence of CNV was confirmed by fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography. Macular lesions in patients, in whom CNV developed in the second eye, were retrospectively evaluated from patient records.

RESULTS

170 patients met the criteria. The average follow up period was 47 months (range 12-108 months). All patients were Japanese. CNV developed in the second eye in 12 (7%) of 170 patients, 30.3 months on average after the first examination. Cumulative incidence of developing CNV in the second eye using Kaplan-Meier life table analysis was: 0.6% by 1 year, 5.6% by 3 years, and 12.3% by 5 years, and was relatively low compared with that in white patients. CNV developed most frequently from serous pigment epithelial detachment (PED) in the macula (58%). Soft drusen were not prevalent and risk of developing CNV was not very high (18%).

CONCLUSION

It was confirmed that there were some differences in the incidence and predisposing findings for CNV developing in AMD among Japanese and other Asian patients compared with those in white people. It is important to recognise these differences between the two populations to understand the pathogenesis and epidemiology of AMD.

Michael-type reaction of ethyl bromodifluoroacetate with alpha,beta- unsaturated carbonyl compounds in the presence of copper powder

We have reported that the reaction of ethyl bromodifluoroacetate (1) with alkenyl iodides in the presence of copper powder gives ethyl alkenyldifluoroacetates. As an extension of this reaction, reaction of 1 with Michael acceptors in the presence of copper powder was examined and found to give 1,4-addition products selectively, unless the acceptor has a group stabilizing a radical intermediate, such as a phenyl group.

[Three cases of pulmonary mucoepidermoid carcinoma]

Three cases of pulmonary mucoepidermoid carcinoma, which were surgically treated in our hospital, were reported. The first case was 28-year-old male, who had hemoptysis, underwent right upper lobectomy and mediastinal lymph node dissection on October 31, 1973. The tumor located and obstructed the ostium of right B2. The diameter was 2.3 x 1.8 cm. The second case was 63-year-old male, who had obstructive pneumonia, underwent left upper lobectomy and mediastinal lymph node dissection on November 18, 1998. The tumor located and obstructed the ostium of lingular bronchus, and the diameter was 1.8 x 1.2 cm. The third case was 25-year-old male, who had obstructive pneumonia, underwent left sleeve lower lobectomy and mediastinal lymph node dissection on May 26, 1999. The tumor located in ostium of left B6, and it obstructed lower bronchus and expanded into the lung. The diameter was 4 x 2 cm. All cases were diagnosed as low grade malignancy with no lymph node metastasis. The first case survived without recurrence at least 5 years as far as we followed, and the others are surviving until now without any signs of recurrence. These three cases were 0.19% of total resected lung cancers in our hospital from 1969 to 1999.

[Two cases of thymic carcinoma effectively treated by preoperative chemotherapy]

A 67-year-old man was admitted with left pleural effusion on chest X-ray film. Chest CT scans showed an anterior mediastinal tumor, left pleural dissemination and pleural effusion. Percutaneous needle biopsy yielded a diagnosis of epitherial carcinoma. The patient underwent 3 courses of systemic chemotherapy (CDDP + ADM + VCR + CPA). At achievement of partial response, the tumor was completely resected. Examination of the resected tumor revealed partial response to chemotherapy. A 49-year-old woman was admitted our hospital with supraclavicular lymph nodes swelling. Chest CT scans showed an large mediastinal tumor. Percutaneous needle biopsy yielded a diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma of thymus. The patient underwent 3 courses of systemic chemotherapy. At achievement of partial response, the tumor was completely resected. Examination of the resected tumor revealed partial response to chemotherapy. These cases indicate the usefulness of preoperative chemotherapy for advanced thymic carcinoma to reduce tumor size and to control local invasion, distant metastasis before operation.

A clinicopathological study of IgA nephropathy in renal transplant recipients: beneficial effect of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor

BACKGROUND

Prolonging the survival of transplant kidneys is a major task of modern nephrology. It has recently been shown that deteriorating renal function and substantial graft loss were observed in 55% of renal allograft recipients with recurrent IgA nephropathy (IgAN) at long-term follow-up. To gain a useful insight into the therapeutic approach towards protecting allograft kidneys from deteriorating graft function, we compared the histological characteristics of post-transplant IgAN to primary IgAN and investigated the effects of an ACE inhibitor.

METHODS

Twenty-one patients with post-transplant IgAN and 63 patients with primary IgAN were included in the histopathological study. The effectiveness of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor treatment in post-transplant IgAN was also studied in 10 patients.

RESULTS

The prevalence of glomeruli with adhesions and/or cellular crescents in primary IgAN was significantly greater than in post-transplant IgAN (P<0.05), but the proportion of glomeruli with segmental sclerosis was similar in both groups. The rate of global obsolescence, and the degree of interstitial fibrosis in post-transplant IgAN were significantly greater than in primary IgAN (P<0.05). The degree of glomerular obsolescence and the severity of interstitial fibrosis correlated with the severity of glomerular lesion in primary IgAN, but not in post-transplant IgAN. In primary IgAN, glomerular diameter significantly correlated with the proportions of glomerular obsolescence, but not in post-transplant IgAN, suggesting that allograft kidneys may be in a hyperfiltration state. Both the blood pressure and the urinary protein excretion significantly improved after ACE-inhibitor treatment (P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

In post-transplant IgAN, histopathological lesions indicative of acute inflammatory insults were suppressed, and glomerular hypertrophy, which may relate to haemodynamic burden such as hyperfiltration, was prominent. Preliminary study of ACE-inhibitor treatment in 10 patients showed favourable effects. A future long-term follow-up study is required to establish the effectiveness of ACE inhibitors in treatment of post-transplant IgAN.

Synthesis of new synthons for organofluorine compounds from halothane containing sulfur functional groups

To develop new synthons for the syntheses of organofluorine compounds, the treatment of Halothane, 2-bromo-2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, (1) with 4-methylbenzenethiol (2) in the presence of sodium hydride gave 1-chloro-2,2,2-trifluoroethyl 4-methylphenyl sulfide (3), which was oxidized with m-chloroperbenzoic acid (m-CPBA) to the corresponding sulfoxide (4) and sulfone (5). Reaction of 3 and 5 with allyltributyltin in the presence of 2,2'-azobis(isobutyronitrile) (AIBN) gave 1-(trifluoromethyl)-3-butenyl compounds (9, 11). Sulfoxide 4 was decomposed in this condition. The treatment of 3 with allyltrimethylsilane in the presence of Lewis acids gave 1-(trifluoromethyl)-3-butenyl compounds (9) in good yield. This result suggests that 4-methylphenylthio substituent stabilizes the alpha-carbocation effectively, though the trifluoromethyl group destabilizes it strongly. Aromatic compounds similarly reacted with 3 in the presence of titanium(IV) chloride to give 2-aryl-1,1,1-trifluoro-2-(4-methylphenylthio)ethanes. Thus, sulfur compounds derived from Halothane were found to be useful new synthons for organofluorine compounds.

Costs, emissions reductions, and vehicle repair: evidence from Arizona

The Arizona inspection and maintenance (I/M) program provides one of the first opportunities to examine the costs and effectiveness of vehicle emission repair. This paper examines various aspects of emission reductions, fuel economy improvements, and repair costs, drawing data from over 80,000 vehicles that failed the I/M test in Arizona between 1995 and the first half of 1996. We summarize the wealth of data on repair from the Arizona program and highlight its limitations. Because missing or incomplete cost information has been a serious shortcoming for the evaluation of I/M programs, we develop a method for estimating repair costs when they are not reported. We find surprising evidence that almost one quarter of all vehicles that take the I/M test are never observed to pass the test. Using a statistical analysis, we provide some information about the differences between the vehicles that pass and those that do not. Older, more polluting vehicles are much more likely never to pass the I/M test, and their expected repair costs are much higher than those for newer cars. This paper summarizes the evidence on costs and emission reductions in the Arizona program, comparing costs and emissions reductions between cars and trucks. Finally, we examine the potential for more cost-effective repair, first through an analysis of tightening I/M cut points and then by calculating the cost savings of achieving different emission reduction goals when the most cost-effective repairs are made first.

Identification and characterization of a new intermediate in the ribosylative inactivation pathway of rifampin by Mycobacterium smegmatis

Mycobacterium smegmatis DSM 43756 inactivates rifampin by ribosylation. To study this process of rifampicin, all possible inactivated forms of the antibiotic were extracted and purified. Structural studies showed the presence of a new inactivation product, designated RIP-TAp(23-phosphoribosyl-rifampin). Formation of 23-(O-ADP-ribosyl)rifampin (RIP-TAs) is the first step, followed by removal of AMP to give rise to the newly identified compound. Lastly, dephosphorylation leads to formation of 23-ribosyl-rifampin (RIP-Mb). Feeding experiments with the ADP-ribosylated antibiotic obtained from the cell homogenates of an Escherichia coli strain carrying the cloned M. smegmatis gene confirmed this rifampin inactivation process.

The SH2D2A gene encoding the T-cell-specific adapter protein (TSAd) is localized centromeric to the CD1 gene cluster on human Chromosome 1

The SH2D2A gene encoding the T-cell-specific adapter protein (TSAd), was isolated from a human Chromosome (Chr) 1 cosmid library (LLNL, UK HGMP). The gene spans 11 kilobases and contains nine exons and eight introns. Four alternative transcript variants were observed in activated T cells. Three single-nucleotide polymorphisms were identified within intron 2. A variable number of GA repeats was found at position -340 from the first coding ATG. Linkage analysis using this marker in eight CEPH families showed that the SH2D2A gene is located close to the D1S2624 marker on Chr 1q21-1q22. Physical mapping of a PAC and BAC contig containing the CD1 gene cluster telomeric to D1S2624 failed to identify a clone harboring the SH2D2A gene. Thus the SH2D2A gene is located centromeric to the CD1 gene cluster on Chr 1.

Structures of ADP-ribosylated rifampicin and its metabolite: intermediates of rifampicin-ribosylation by Mycobacterium smegmatis DSM43756

23-(O-ADP-Ribosyl)rifampicin [RIP-TAs (3, Na+ form), RIP-TAf (4, H+ form)] was obtained as an intermediate in the conversion process of rifampicin (1) to RIP-Mb (2) that is mediated by cell homogenates of Mycobacterium smegmatis DSM43756 or of Escherichia coli carrying a mycobacterial mono(ADP-ribosyl) transferase gene, in the presence of NADH. 23-[O-(5'-Phosphoribosyl)]rifampicin (5, RIP-TAp) was also obtained by the reaction of rifampicin with NADH in the presence of a homogenate of M. smegmatis. The structures of 3, 4, and 5 were determined by means of MS and NMR analyses.

Adsorption and pharmacokinetics of cyclosporin A in relation to mode of infusion in bone marrow transplant patients

Two main factors that affect the pharmacokinetics of cyclosporin A (CsA) during 24-h durable intravenous (DIV) administration have been reported, namely physiological changes after bone marrow transplantation, and blood sampling through indwelling lines. In addition, it has been found that infusion sets made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) markedly adsorb CsA. We conducted in vitro adsorption studies of CsA on infusion sets, and the administration routes that are used in the treatment of patients with bone marrow transplantation. We also examined the effects of administration route on CsA pharmacokinetics in clinical practice. The in vitro adsorption study using 30-mm segments of lumen from commercially available infusion sets showed that the degree of CsA adsorption per area of lumen made of PVC was significantly higher than that in those made of polyethylene (PE) or polybutadiene (PB), which showed no adsorption of CsA. Due to its adsorption, use of infusion sets made of PVC resulted in about a 40-50% loss of CsA dose, which affected the pharmacokinetic parameters during 24-h DIV, while those made of PE and PB did not. The use of non-PVC infusion sets should allow for accurate monitoring of CsA results, and provide cost benefit in the treatment of bone marrow transplantation.

Platelet-derived growth factor-A-induced retinal gliosis protects against ischemic retinopathy

Retinal astrocytes are located in the nerve fiber layer and along retinal blood vessels and have been hypothesized to participate in the induction and maintenance of the blood-retinal barrier. Platelet-derived growth factor-A (PDGF-A) is normally produced by retinal ganglion cells and is involved in astrocyte recruitment and proliferation. We used gain-of-function transgenic mice that express PDGF-A in photoreceptors to explore the roles of PDGF-A and astrocytes in the retina. Transgene-positive mice developed glial infiltration of the inner retina and had significantly less oxygen-induced retinal vascular closure and no neovascularization compared with littermate controls, which had prominent vascular closure and neovascularization. The increased survival of endothelial cells in transgenic mice in the face of oxygen-induced down-regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor was accompanied by an increase in astrocyte-derived fibroblast growth factor-2. Therefore, PDGF-A increases retinal astrocytes, which promote the survival of endothelial cells as well as their expression of barrier characteristics.

Production of 105Rh-EDTMP and its bone accumulation

105Rh has favorable physical characteristics as a radiotherapeutic nuclide. Carrier-free 105Rh can be produced by the neutron activation of 104Ru followed by beta decay of 105Ru. It was clarified that carrier-free 105Rh can be produced in quantities and the purity necessary for chemical and clinical investigations of its use as a nuclide for radiotherapy. 105Rh-EDTMP was simply obtained from 105Rh3+ and EDTMP by heating for 30 min in boiling water, giving a radiochemical yield of > 99%. Dissociation of radioactivity assessed by paperchromatography was negligible for up to 5 days after its preparation. In animals, 105Rh-EDTMP showed rapid blood clearance and selective uptake in the bone. Hence, 105Rh-EDTMP is thought to be a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of pain due to bone metastases.

Histopathological findings of X-linked retinoschisis with neovascular glaucoma

BACKGROUND

X-linked retinoschisis (XLRS) is rarely complicated by neovascular glaucoma. Only a few reports of XLRS histopathological findings with neovascular glaucoma have been published.

METHODS

A 41-year-old man with XLRS complicated by neovascular glaucoma in his left eye was examined with electroretinography, B-scan, ultrasound biomicroscopy and computed tomography. He was examined by ophthalmoscopy and fluorescein angiography in the other eye. An enucleation was performed in his left eye due to uncontrollable high intraocular pressure and persistent ocular pain. We examined the enucleated eye histopathologically.

RESULTS

Examination of the enucleated eye showed nuclear sclerosis of the lens, pigmented retrolental membrane and retinoschisis which separated the inner layer of the retina and made a large space in the vitreous cavity without any apparent detachment of the outer layers of the retina. Sclerotic vessels were present histopathologically in both the inner and outer layers of the retina. There was a peripheral anterior synechia, ectropion uveae and a fibrovascular membrane, which contained many lumina of neovascularization, indicating marked rubeosis iridis. Small cystic spaces were observed in both the schitic retina in the peripheral region and the foveal schisis at the outer layer of the retina. The photoreceptor cells had become markedly atrophied and multiple regions of calcification were observed. The optic nerve showed severe atrophy with gliosis, but the central retinal artery and vein were still open within the nerve.

CONCLUSIONS

These histopathological findings suggest that rubeosis iridis may have developed secondarily to retinal ischemia due to occlusion of the retinal blood vessels.

Heterogeneity in ornithine cytotoxicity of bovine retinal pigment epithelial cells in primary culture

Gyrate atrophy of the choroid and retina is a chorioretinal degeneration caused by hyperornithinemia and a deficiency of ornithine-delta-aminotransferase (OAT). We recently showed that ornithine exhibits cytotoxicity to human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell lines treated with the OAT inhibitor, 5-fluoromethylornithine (5-FMOrn), and suggested that this system may be an in vitro model of gyrate atrophy. In the present study, in order to apply this system to primary cultured RPE cells, we freshly prepared RPE cells from bovine eyes and studied the effect of ornithine on cell damage. Two phenotypes, epithelioid and fusiform, which coexisted in the primary culture and epithelioid phenotype cells, but not fusiform ones, were severely damaged and partially detached from the substrate by 10 m m ornithine and 0.5 m m 5-FMOrn. Neither ornithine nor 5-FMOrn alone exhibited such cytotoxicity to both phenotypes of RPE cells. Proline significantly prevented the ornithine-induced cytotoxicity. Epithelioid and fusiform phenotypes isolated from the primary culture showed different distribution of actin filaments. A combination of ornithine and 5-FMOrn time-dependently inhibited [(3)H]thymidine incorporation in the epithelioid, but not fusiform, cells. Proline prevented the inhibition of [(3)H]thymidine incorporation by ornithine in 5-FMOrn-treated epithelioid cells. Furthermore, l -azetidine-2-carboxylic acid, a collagen synthesis inhibitor, reduced [(3)H]thymidine incorporation in epithelioid, but not fusiform, cells, which was reversed by proline. These results demonstrate that the epithelioid phenotype of bovine RPE cells becomes susceptible to ornithine following inactivation of OAT. The phenotypic cells and its prevention by proline may provide insight into biochemical triggers that induce gyrate atrophy.

Complex mechanisms underlying impaired activation of Cdk4 and Cdk2 in replicative senescence: roles of p16, p21, and cyclin D1

Numerous changes in gene expression are known to occur during replicative senescence, including changes in genes involved in the cell cycle control. In the present study, we have found a severe impairment in the activation of Cdk2 and Cdk4 in response to mitogens in senescent human fibroblasts and determined the molecular basis for this. Although Cdk4 protein was constitutively expressed in senescent cells at the same level as in early-passage young cells, it was found to be complexed with a distinct set of Cdk inhibitors. Cdk4 derived from early passage quiescent cells was effectively activated by incubation with cyclin D1 and Cdk-activating kinase (CAK) in vitro, whereas Cdk4 from senescent cells was not. Cdk2 protein was dramatically decreased in senescent cells and complexed primarily with cyclin D1 and p21. This cyclin D1-bound Cdk2 was not activated by CAK either in vivo or in vitro, implicating cyclin D1 as an inhibitor of Cdk2 activation. Thus, one of the underlying molecular events involved in replicative senescence is the impaired activation of Cdk4 and Cdk2 due to increased binding of p16 to Cdk4 and increased association of Cdk2 with cyclin D1 and p21.

[Development of the Japanese version of the Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BAQ)]

The Aggression Questionnaire (Buss & Perry, 1992) has been used to investigate links between personality factors and health outcomes. We developed the Japanese version of the Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BAQ) and assessed validity and reliability of the scale. Study I (N = 1,125 college students) used a 45-item rating questionnaire measuring each of four components of aggression: Anger, Hostility, Physical Aggression, and Verbal Aggression. Four aggression subscales emerged clearly from exploratory factor analysis. Study II (N = 611 college students) used a 24-item questionnaire and replicated factor structure and factor loadings of Study I. The scales were shown to be highly internally consistent, and stable at appropriate levels over 4-month time period. Normative data, factorial validity, and external evidence of construct, convergent, and discriminant validity for the scales were also presented.

Molecular dynamics of MHC genesis unraveled by sequence analysis of the 1,796,938-bp HLA class I region

The intensely studied MHC has become the paradigm for understanding the architectural evolution of vertebrate multigene families. The 4-Mb human MHC (also known as the HLA complex) encodes genes critically involved in the immune response, graft rejection, and disease susceptibility. Here we report the continuous 1,796,938-bp genomic sequence of the HLA class I region, linking genes between MICB and HLA-F. A total of 127 genes or potentially coding sequences were recognized within the analyzed sequence, establishing a high gene density of one per every 14.1 kb. The identification of 758 microsatellite provides tools for high-resolution mapping of HLA class I-associated disease genes. Most importantly, we establish that the repeated duplication and subsequent diversification of a minimal building block, MIC-HCGIX-3.8-1-P5-HCGIV-HLA class I-HCGII, engendered the present-day MHC. That the currently nonessential HLA-F and MICE genes have acted as progenitors to today's immune-competent HLA-ABC and MICA/B genes provides experimental evidence for evolution by "birth and death," which has general relevance to our understanding of the evolutionary forces driving vertebrate multigene families.