Screening of genes responsible for differentiation of mouse mesenchymal stromal cells by DNA micro-array analysis of C3H10T1/2 and C3H10T1/2-derived cell lines

BACKGROUND

The molecular mechanisms underlying the biologic effects or differentiation of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) have not been clarified. Screening for genes differentially expressed at different stages is an important step in determining these molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

In this study, we analyzed the gene expression profiles of C3H10T1/2 (10T1/2) cells and two sublines, A54 (pre-adipocyte) and M1601 (myoblast), as a model of MSC and downstream committed progenitors.

RESULTS

We found up-regulated expression of delta-like-1 (Dlk), Wnt-5a and IL-1 receptor-like-1 (ST2) in 10T1/2 cells; stem cell factor (SCF) and stromal derived factor-1 (SDF-1) in A54 cells; and cardiac muscle-specific gene in M1601 cells. Overexpression of Dlk in A54 cells did not induce any effects on their differentiation into adipocytes. After differentiation into adipocytes, A54 cells reduced the expression of SCF, SDF-1 and Ang-1 as well as the ability to support the formation of a cobblestone appearance.

DISCUSSION

The results suggest that these three lines hae different gene profiles and are a useful system for analyzing the differentiation and function of MSC and progenitor cells.

Propofol EDTA and reduced incidence of infection

Propofol formulated in a lipid vehicle supports the growth of microorganisms. There have been worldwide reports of extrinsic microbial contamination of propofol leading to outbreaks of serious postoperative nosocomial infections. Therefore it is essential that medical professionals follow strict aseptic precautions when handling propofol, as recommended by manufacturers of propofol and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Non-adherence to these recommendations increases the risk of nosocomial postoperative infections, which impose a heavy burden of morbidity and mortality and have serious economic consequences. It has also been recommended that the use of EDTA-containing formulations of propofol be considered. In vitro studies have confirmed that EDTA added to propofol retards microbial growth. Data on the incidence of nosocomial infections before and after the introduction of propofol with EDTA indicates that there have been no further cluster outbreaks and individual nosocomial infections appear to have been reduced. The addition of EDTA is an additional safety precaution to good aseptic practice.

Propofol in low doses causes redistribution of body heat in male volunteers

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Cardiovascular and mental stress in dental patients with phobias about dentistry may be reduced by propofol sedation. We tested the hypothesis that even low doses of propofol may have effects on body temperatures in male volunteers.

METHODS

Six healthy male volunteers were given propofol over 28 min with the following infusion rates: 8 mg kg(-1) h(-1) for the first 3 min, 4 mg kg(-1) h(-1) for the next 10 min, and 2 mg kg(-1) h(-1) for the final 15 min. Body temperatures were measured at five locations: tympanic membrane, forehead, forearm, dorsum of the hand and fingertip. Thermoregulatory vasoconstriction was evaluated using the forearm minus fingertip temperature gradient.

RESULTS

Tympanic membrane and forehead temperatures began to decrease at 10 and 20 min, respectively, after the start of the propofol infusion, and reached a minimum at 30 min (tympanic -0.5 +/- 0.2 degrees C) and 40 min (forehead -0.6 +/- 0.2 degrees C), respectively. Peripheral skin temperatures showed an increase between 10 and 30 min in the forearm and fingertip and between 20 and 30 min in the dorsum of the hand. After 30 min, a decrease in peripheral skin temperatures was observed. The forearm minus fingertip temperature gradient changed from negative to positive after 40 min, and increased continuously thereafter (baseline -0.3 +/- 0.4 degrees C, 90 min: 6.5 +/- 1.6 degrees C).

CONCLUSIONS

A low dose of propofol impairs tonic thermoregulatory vasoconstriction and induces heat redistribution from the core to the periphery.

Entropy indices vs the bispectral index™ for estimating nociception during sevoflurane anaesthesia

BACKGROUND

It is now possible to acquire and process raw EEG and frontal EMG signals to produce two spectral-entropy-based indices (response entropy and state entropy) reflective of analgesic and hypnotic levels during general anaesthesia (with the Datex-Ohmeda S/5 Entropy Module, Datex-Ohmeda, Helsinki, Finland). However, there are no data available on the accuracy of the Entropy Module in estimating nociception during sevoflurane anaesthesia.

METHODS

Forty female patients were enrolled in the present study. Each patient was allocated randomly to one of four end-tidal sevoflurane concentration (ET(sev)) groups (1.3, 1.7, 2.1 or 2.5%). A BIS Sensor (Aspect Medical Systems, Newton, MA) and an Entropy Sensor (Datex-Ohmeda) were applied side-by-side to the forehead. The bispectral index (A-2000 BIS Monitor, version 3.4, Aspect Medical Systems), response entropy, state entropy and patient movement were observed after electrical stimulation (20, 40, 60 and 80 mA, 100 Hz, 5 s) and after skin incision during sevoflurane anaesthesia (1.3, 1.7, 2.1 or 2.5%). Accuracy of the EEG variables in differentiating the intensity of electrical stimulation was estimated by the prediction probability (P(K)) values.

RESULTS

Response entropy and state entropy [median, (range)] before skin incision were significantly lower in patients who did not move [29 (15-41) and 24 (14-41)] than in those that did [38 (24-53) and 37 (24-52)], but there was no significant difference in BIS. All EEG variables increased significantly (P<0.0001 for all) with increases in the intensity of electrical stimulation. The difference between response entropy and state entropy increased with increases in the electrical stimulation (P<0.0001). However, no EEG variables could differentiate the intensity of the electrical stimulations accurately because of low P(K)-values (P(K)<0.8).

CONCLUSION

Noxious stimulation increased the difference between response entropy and state entropy. However, an increase in the difference does not always indicate inadequate analgesia and should be interpreted carefully during anaesthesia.

Study on risk management of heavy metals for reuse of biosolids

The behaviour of heavy metals was investigated at 22 wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). In addition, the survey of heavy metal balance was conducted in detail at one WWTP. For the measurement, 22 types of heavy metals were selected from the chemical materials of pollutant release and transfer register (PRTR). There were some heavy metals, which were detected not in wastewater but in dewatered sludge. By means of the detailed survey at one WWTP, 60 to 80% of some heavy metals, such as B, Mn, Co, Ni and Mo, were discharged with treated water. According to the results of PRTR, Zn, B and Mn accounted for a large part of the discharge into the water course. To estimate the behaviour of heavy metals in the environment, leaching tests were applied to the products made of biosolids. During a series of leaching tests for building materials, it was observed that the concentration of heavy metals was very small, but the ratio of increase keeps a constant value. Therefore, it was considered that the acid extractable contents of heavy metal would be important.

Protective Effect of Diltiazem on Hepatic Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats by Improving Liver Tissue Blood Flow

BACKGROUND

Cytosolic calcium ions are known to play an important role in ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury. However, the protective effect of calcium channel blockers remains controversial in liver IR injury. Moreover, calcium channel blockers improve hepatic IR injury not due to blocking an increase in hepatic calcium concentration. Therefore, we hypothesized that calcium antagonists protected a liver from IR injury by a vasodilatory action rather than by the inhibition of an increase in Ca2+ within parenchymal cells. This study evaluated the effects of diltiazem, a calcium channel blocker, on liver energy metabolism and blood flow after IR injury.

METHODS

Twenty-seven rats underwent hepatic ischemia for 30 minutes followed by 60 minutes of reperfusion. The animals were allocated into group C (without drug); group D5 (diltiazem, 5 microg/kg per min); or group D10 (diltiazem, 10 microg/kg per min). Diltiazem was infused before laparotomy and then throughout the experiment.

RESULTS

After 60 minutes of reperfusion, liver tissue blood flow and ATP concentrations were significantly higher in group D10 than the other animals (both, P < .05). Changes in ATP values strongly correlated those observed in blood flow (R = 0.80, P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Diltiazem improved ATP-generating capacity during reperfusion by improving liver tissue blood flow. An improvement in hepatic tissue perfusion may be a therapeutic strategy for liver IR injury.

Comparison of the intubating laryngeal mask airway and laryngeal tube placement during manual in-line stabilisation of the neck

We compared the placement of the laryngeal tube (LT) with the intubating laryngeal mask airway (ILMA) in 51 patients whose necks were stabilised by manual in-line traction. Following induction of anaesthesia and neuromuscular blockade, the LT and ILMA were inserted consecutively in a randomised, crossover design. Using pressure-controlled ventilation (20 cmH(2)O inspiratory pressure), we measured insertion attempts, time to establish positive-pressure ventilation, tidal volume, gastric insufflation, and minimum airway pressure at which gas leaked around the cuff. Data were compared using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests; p < 0.05 was considered significant. Insertion was found to be more difficult with the LT (successful at first attempt in 16 patients) than with the ILMA (successful at first attempt in 42 patients, p < 0.0001). Time required for insertion was longer for the LT (28 [23-35] s, median [interquartile range]) than for the ILMA (20 [15-25] s, p = 0.0009). Tidal volume was less for the LT (440 [290-670] ml) than for the ILMA (630 [440-750] ml, p = 0.013). Minimum airway pressure at which gas leak occurred and incidence of gastric insufflation were similar with two devices. In patients whose necks were stabilised with manual in-line traction, insertion of the ILMA was easier and quicker than insertion of the LT and tidal volume was greater with the ILMA than the LT.

Centrosome hyperamplification and chromosomal damage after exposure to radiation

OBJECTIVE

In order to elucidate the effects of radiation on centrosome hyperamplification (CH), we examined the centrosome duplication cycle in KK47 bladder cancer cells following irradiation.

METHODS

KK47 cells were irradiated with various doses of radiation and were examined for CH immunostaining for gamma-tubulin.

RESULTS

Nearly all control cells contained one or two centrosomes, and mitotic cells displayed typical bipolar spindles. The centrosome replication cycle is well regulated in KK47. Twenty-four hours after 5-Gy irradiation, approximately 80% of irradiated cells were arrested in G2 phase, and at 48 h after irradiation, 56.9% of cells contained more than two centrosomes. Laser scanning cytometry performed 48 h after irradiation showed the following two pathways: (1) unequal distribution of chromosomes to daughter cells, or (2) failure to undergo cytokinesis, resulting in polyploidy. With mitotic collection, M-phase cells with CH could be divided into G1 cells with micronuclei and polyploidal cells. Fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis showed clear signs of chromosomal instability (CIN) at 48 h after irradiation. The present study had two major findings: (1) continual duplication of centrosomes occurred in the cell cycle-arrested cells upon irradiation, leading to centrosome amplification; (2) cytokinesis failure was due to aberrant mitotic spindle formation caused by the presence of amplified centrosomes. Abnormal mitosis with amplified centrosomes was detected in the accumulating G2/M population after irradiation, showing that this amplification of centrosomes was not caused by failure to undergo cytokinesis, but rather that abnormal mitosis resulting from amplification of centrosomes leads to cytokinesis block.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that CH is a critical event leading to CIN following exposure to radiation.

Dose calculation system for remotely supporting radiotherapy

The dose calculation system IMAGINE is being developed keeping in mind remotely supporting external radiation therapy using photon beams. The system is expected to provide an accurate picture of the dose distribution in a patient body, using a Monte Carlo calculation that employs precise models of the patient body and irradiation head. The dose calculation will be performed utilising super-parallel computing at the dose calculation centre, which is equipped with the ITBL computer, and the calculated results will be transferred through a network. The system is intended to support the quality assurance of current, widely carried out radiotherapy and, further, to promote the prevalence of advanced radiotherapy. Prototypes of the modules constituting the system have already been constructed and used to obtain basic data that are necessary in order to decide on the concrete design of the system. The final system will be completed in 2007.

Phosphorus removal under anoxic conditions in a continuous-flow A2N two-sludge process

The Anaerobic-Anoxic/Nitrification (A2N) system is a continuous-flow, two-sludge process in which Poly-P bacteria are capable of taking up phosphate under anoxic conditions using nitrate as an electron acceptor. The process is very efficient because it maximizes the utilization of organic substrate for phosphorus and nitrogen removal. An experimental lab-scale A2N system fed with domestic sewage was tested over a period of 260 days. The purpose of the experiment was to examine phosphorus removal capacity of a modified A2N two-sludge system. Factors affecting phosphorus and nitrogen removal by the A2N system were investigated. These factors were the influent COD/TN ratio, Sludge Retention Time (SRT), Bypass Sludge Flow rate (BSF) and Return Sludge Flow rate (RSF). Results indicated that optimum conditions for phosphorus and nitrogen removal were the influent COD/TN ratio around 6.49, the SRT of 14 days, and the BSF and RSF were fixed at about 26-33% of influent flow rate.

Differences in perioperative coagulation between Japanese and other ethnic groups undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

Japanese patients experience fewer episodes of postoperative thrombosis than those in certain other countries. To investigate this phenomenon, we measured perioperative coagulation activation markers and conducted thromboelastography (TEG) in 27 Japanese patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

METHODS

D-dimer, thrombin-antithrombin complex (TAT), and prothrombin fragment 1+2 (F1+2) were measured as coagulation activation markers. TEG was performed to measure reaction time (R), clot formation time (K), maximum amplitude (MA), and maximum elastance (ME). These measurements were performed before and after the operation and the day after the operation.

RESULTS

Coagulation activation markers increased significantly postoperatively. With respect to TEG, MA and ME increased postoperatively. R and K did not change.

CONCLUSION

Whereas clotting factor activation sthenia is common in Europe and North America, thrombocyte function sthenia occurs in Japanese patients. This difference may account for the differing incidences of phlebothrombosis in Japanese and white populations.

Central retinal artery occlusion in a patient with pseudoxanthoma elasticum

We examined a patient with central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) who was diagnosed as having pseudoxanthoma elasticum and exhibited angioid streaks. Echocardiography revealed stenosis and plaques of the right carotid artery. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed multiple cerebral infarctions, which were considered to be the result of vascular-endothelial abnormalities associated with pseudoxanthoma elasticum. Systemic examination of any plaque which may cause CRAO is recommended.

Inhibition of hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced oxidative stress in HGF-stimulated antiapoptotic signaling: role of PI3-K and Akt kinase upon rac1

Rac1-regulated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production has been implicated in apoptosis. In contrast, pleiotropic protein kinase Akt protects against apoptosis. However, the pro- and antiapoptotic mechanisms of rac1 and Akt, respectively, and the intersection between these mechanisms are incompletely understood. In a model of oxidative stress and apoptosis induced by hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) in primary hepatocytes, activation of the PI3-K Akt axis by the prosurvival hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) inhibited H/R-stimulated rac1 activation and intracellular ROS production, and suppressed apoptosis. Suppression of PI3-K or Akt activity abrogated the inhibitory effect of HGF on rac1 activity and rac1-regulated oxidative stress. Furthermore, constitutive activation of Akt or PI3-K in the absence of HGF was sufficient to phosphorylate rac1, inhibit rac1 activation, and suppress rac1-regulated ROS production. These findings demonstrate that growth factor-stimulated activation of PI3-K-Akt is necessary and sufficient to suppress intracellular oxidative stress and apoptosis by inhibiting activation of pro-apoptotic, prooxidative rac1 GTPase.

Centrosome hyperamplification and chromosomal instability in bladder cancer

OBJECTIVE

Chromosomal instability (CIN) is a common feature of malignant tumors. Centrosome hyperamplification (CH) occurs frequently in human cancers, and may be a contributing factor in CIN. In this study, we investigated the relationship between CH and CIN in bladder cancer.

METHODS

Clinical samples obtained by transurethral resection from 22 patients with bladder cancer were examined (histological grade G1, 5 cases; G2, 6 cases; G3, 11 cases). CH was evaluated by immunohistochemistry using anti-pericentrin antibody. CIN was evaluated by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). FISH probes for pericentromeric regions of chromosomes 3, 7, and 17 were hybridized to touch preparations of nuclei from frozen tissues. We also analyzed the centrosome replication cycle of bladder cancer by laser scanning cytometry (LSC).

RESULTS

Of the 22 cases examined, 18 (81.8%) had centrosome hyperamplification: CH 0, 4 cases (18.1%); CH I, 5 cases (22.7%); CH II, 5 cases (22.7%); CH III, 8 cases (36.4%). The grade of CH was directly proportional to the histological grade (p=0.03, chi(2) test). LSC analysis showed that the centrosome replication cycle was well regulated in pathologically low-grade bladder cancer, which did not have chromosomal instability. In contrast, we found marked variability of centrosomes in pathologically high-grade bladder cancer, which had chromosomal instability. CH and CIN were both detected in pathologically high-grade tumors. The grade of CH was directly proportional to the CIN grade (p=0.0079, chi(2) test).

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study suggest that CH may be involved in CIN in bladder cancer.

Enhanced insulin gene expression by reduced intracellular glutathione level in insulin secreting cells MIN6

Glutathione (GSH) participates in deoxidization and elimination of hydrogen peroxide and other reactive oxygen species, and plays an important part in the antioxidant system. To investigate the effect of GSH content on insulin gene expression, we utilized a stable transfectant, designated as ribo-MIN6 cells, which were stably transfected with the ribozyme of gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase (gamma-GCS), exhibiting approximately 50% reduction of intracellular GSH content. We transiently transfected a luciferase expression vector driven by human preproinsulin gene promoter spanning from -1998 to +237 (pINS-1998/luc) and several deletion constructs into ribo-MIN6. Furthermore, transient transfection with ribozyme vector and pINS-1998/luc into wild-type MIN6 cells was also carried out. Luciferase activity was about 9-fold higher in ribo-MIN6 cells as compared to wild-type MIN6 cells. In the transient transfection of pINS-1998/luc with gamma-GCS ribozyme vector into wild-type MIN6 cells, the luciferase activity was increased in proportion to the added amounts of ribozyme vector. In transfection with deletion constructs, two major sites were found to be critical for insulin promoter activity. For the wild-type MIN6 cells, regions important for the promoter activity were also located at regions similar to those of ribo-MIN6 cells. Our results suggest that the suppression of intracellular GSH level might, in part, regulate the insulin gene expression.

Actions of domperidone on the opioid system in isolated guinea-pig ileum: differences between dopamine antagonists on opioid system

1. To validate the relationship between the dopaminergic, opioidergic and cholinergic nervous systems, we evaluated the effect of domperidone, a dopamine (D2) antagonist, on the opioid system in myenteric plexus-longitudinal muscle preparation isolated from the guinea-pig ileum. 2. One micromolar of domperidone did not affect the 0.1 Hz-evoked (duration 0.5 ms, maximum intensity) twitch response, but concentration dependently inhibited the twitch response between concentrations of 2 and 20 microM, and the inhibition was maximum after 20-30 min at the highest concentration used (20 microM). 3. Acetylcholine-evoked contraction on basal tension was also not inhibited by 1 microM domperidone, but the contraction was concentration dependently inhibited at concentrations of 10-100 microM in a non-competitive manner. 4. One micromolar of domperidone, however, increased post-tetanic twitch inhibition, an indicator of the release of endogenous opioids. This increase was completely antagonized by 1 microM naloxone. Twitch inhibition induced by dynorphin 1-13 (0.1-10 nM) was not affected by 1 microM domperidone, but increased the maximum twitch inhibition caused by morphine (0.1-1 microM). 6. These results might reflect the existence of an interaction between the dopaminergic and opioidergic system without the inhibition of the cholinergic system. Dopamine antagonists increased opioid action, an action that may depend more on the increased release of endogenous opioids than on supersensitivity of the opioid receptor.

Non-filamentous sludge bulking caused by a deficiency of nitrogen in industrial wastewater treatment

Deficiency in the nutrient supply such as nitrogen usually results in activated sludge bulking and this phenomenon often takes place in the industrial wastewater treatment plants with activated sludge process. The effects of nitrogen deficiency on activated sludge bulking were studied specially in some experiments carried out in a sequencing batch reactor fed with brewing process wastewater in this paper. The experimental results showed that the sludge settled properly at an influent BOD/N value of 100/4. When the value of BOD/N was 100/3, filaments had an excessive growth at one time during the reaction process. Afterwards, the number of filamentous bacteria began to reduce and simultaneously an excessive growth of viscous Zoogloea with high percentage of moisture was observed and non-filamentous activated sludge bulking occurred. When the influent BOD/N value was 100/2, the excessive growth of filamentous microorganisms could not be observed at all times and the sludge characterization was similar to the case in which BOD/N value was 100/3. When the value of influent BOD/N was 100/0.94, more serious non-filamentous bulking occurred. Furthermore, the effects of nitrogen deficiency on the nitrogen sources and phosphorus sources utilization rate and the COD removal rate were investigated in the experiments.

Nitrous oxide decreases shivering threshold in rabbits less than isoflurane

BACKGROUND

Comparable minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) fractions of volatile anaesthetics produce similar thermoregulatory impairment. Nitrous oxide, however, decreases the vasoconstriction threshold less than sevoflurane or isoflurane. We tested the hypothesis that nitrous oxide also decreases shivering threshold less than isoflurane alone or in combination.

METHODS

Twenty-four rabbits were assigned randomly to one of three 0.3 MAC anaesthetic regimens: (i) nitrous oxide 69%; (ii) nitrous oxide 35% and isoflurane 0.3%; or (iii) isoflurane 0.6%. Body temperature was lowered by perfusing 10 degrees C water through a U-shaped thermode positioned in the colon. Shivering was evaluated by inspection.

RESULTS

The rabbits anaesthetized with nitrous oxide alone shivered at 37.0 (0.5) degrees C (P<0.01 vs other groups). In those given the nitrous oxide and isoflurane combination, the shivering threshold was 36.4 (0.5) degrees C and that in the isoflurane group was 35.9 (0.4) degrees C.

CONCLUSION

This study indicates that nitrous oxide reduces the shivering threshold less than isoflurane.

Decrease in the insulin receptor protein level by anti-insulin receptor antibodies: roles of tyrosine kinase activity and receptor internalization

To investigate the mechanism of severe impairment of insulin action in type B insulin resistance, we extracted IgG from the serum of a patient with type B insulin resistance (B-IgG) and analyzed the inhibiting effect of B-IgG not only on insulin signaling but also on IGF-I signaling in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells expressing human insulin receptor or human IGF-I receptor. Preincubation with 1 mg/ml B-IgG prevented insulin-induced phosphorylation of insulin receptor and insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) but did not alter the IGF-I-induced phosphorylation of the IGF-I receptor and IRS-1. (125)I-insulin binding was inhibited by 93% after preincubation with B-IgG at 37 degrees C and was recovered up to 50% of the control value by acid washing. However, when cells were preincubated with B-IgG at 4 degrees C, the insulin binding completely recovered the control value by acid washing. (125)I-IGF-I binding was not altered by B-IgG preincubation. Immunoblot study revealed that the protein level of the insulin receptor was strongly decreased by preincubation with 1 mg/ml B-IgG at 37 degrees C, but never at 4 degrees C. The IRS-1 protein level did not change by B-IgG preincubation. In order to know the role of the insulin receptor internalization in the inhibiting effect of B-IgG, we employed CHO cells expressing mutant insulin receptors which do not undergo internalization (CHO-K1018R). B-IgG incubation of CHO-K1018R at 37 degrees C failed to decrease the protein level of the insulin receptor. The present data indicate that IgG from the diabetic patient with type B insulin resistance decreased insulin receptor protein level, probably due to the enhanced degradation rate of the insulin receptor, in which insulin receptor tyrosine kinase activity and internalization are required for this process. This effect of B-IgG was specific for the insulin receptor with no effect on either IGF-I receptor or IRS-1, as reflected by the IGF-I effectiveness on glycemic control in this patient.

Ex vivo whole-embryo culture of caspase-8-deficient embryos normalize their aberrant phenotypes in the developing neural tube and heart

Caspase-8 plays the role of initiator in the caspase cascade and is a key molecule in death receptor-induced apoptotic pathways. To investigate the physiological roles of caspase-8 in vivo, we have generated caspase-8-deficient mice by gene targeting. The first signs of abnormality in homozygous mutant embryos were observed in extraembryonic tissue, the yolk sac. By embryonic day (E) 10.5, the yolk sac vasculature had begun to form inappropriately, and subsequently the mutant embryos displayed a variety of defects in the developing heart and neural tube. As a result, all mutant embryos died at E11.5. Importantly, homozygous mutant neural and heart defects were rescued by ex vivo whole-embryo culture during E10.5-E11.5, suggesting that these defects are most likely secondary to a lack of physiological caspase-8 activity. Taken together, these results suggest that caspase-8 is indispensable for embryonic development.

Redox factor-1: an extra-nuclear role in the regulation of endothelial oxidative stress and apoptosis

The rac1 GTPase promotes oxidative stress through reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, whereas the DNA repair enzyme and transcriptional regulator redox factor-1 (ref-1) protects against cell death due to oxidative stimuli. However, the function of ref-1 in regulating intracellular oxidative stress, particularly that induced by rac1, has not been defined. We examined the role of ref-1 in vascular endothelial cell oxidative stress and apoptosis. Ref-1 was expressed in both the cytoplasm and nuclei of resting endothelial cells. Cytoplasmic ref-1 translocated to the nucleus with the oxidative trigger hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R). Forced cytoplasmic overexpression of ref-1 suppressed H/R-induced oxidative stress (H(2)O(2) production), NF-kappaB activation, and apoptosis, and also mitigated rac1-regulated H(2)O(2) production and NF-kappaB transcriptional activity. We conclude that inhibition of oxidative stress is another mechanism by which ref-1 protects against apoptosis, and that this is achieved through modulation of cytoplasmic rac1-regulated ROS generation. This suggests a novel extra-nuclear function of ref-1.

Genetic effects on fatty acid composition of carcass fat of Japanese Black Wagyu steers

Two hundred ninety-three Japanese Black Wagyu steers derived from 34 sires were used to investigate genetic effects on the fatty acid composition of carcass fat. All steers were fed identical diets for 365 d and slaughtered at similar ages. If the percentage of genetic contribution of sire A, B, or C was not lower than 25%, steers were classified into groups A, B, and C, respectively. Fatty acid compositions differed depending on deposit sites. Mean percentage of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) tended to be higher in the outer parts than in the inner parts of the body. Percentage of MUFA in carcass fat was negatively correlated with withers height and BW and positively correlated with meat quality score and marbling score. Fatty acid compositions of the 34 sire groups varied, and mean percentages of MUFA in i.m. fat ranged from 47.71 to 54.77%. Steers in the C group grew larger than those in the A or B group. Mean percentages of MUFA for i.m. fat in the A, B, and C groups (52.83, 51.88, and 50.33%, respectively) differed (P < 0.05) from each other. Steers in the C group had higher (P < 0.05) percentages of saturated fatty acids than those in the A or B groups. Percentages of genetic contribution of sires B (P < 0.05) and C (P < 0.001) were negatively correlated with percentage of MUFA in i.m. fat. These results suggested that genetic factors affected fatty acid composition of carcass fat in Japanese Black Wagyu cattle and that some sires had potent genetic factors affecting this composition.

Role of endogenous nitric oxide generation in the regulation of vascular tone and reactivity in small vessels as investigated in transgenic mice using synchrotron radiation microangiography

Nitric oxide (NO) produced by endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) plays a central role in regulation of vascular tone and reactivity. The purpose of this study is to clarify the basal tone and microvascular reactivity in eNOS-overexpressing transgenic (Tg) mice in vivo with a microangiography system using monochromatic synchrotron radiation (SR). The mouse femoral artery was cannulated, nonionic contrast media was injected, and microangiography was performed in hindlimbs of mice. Serial images of the small blood vessels (diameter <200 microm) were recorded by the SR microangiography system. At basal conditions, the diameter of tibial arteries in eNOS-Tg mice was larger than that of wild-type mice (179 +/- 8 versus 132 +/- 8 microm; P < 0.01). l-NAME treatment decreased the vessel diameter and canceled the difference in vessel diameters between two genotypes. Acetylcholine- and sodium nitroprusside-induced relaxations of small vessels were significantly reduced in Tg mice compared with wild-type mice (35.0 +/- 9.4 versus 61.6 +/- 6.7%, 85.0 +/- 10.2 versus 97.3 +/- 6.7% of the maximum relaxation, respectively). Our data provide the evidence that overproduced NO from endothelium reduces vascular tone and plays a pivotal role in regulation of vascular tone in small vessels. Furthermore, the reduced NO-mediated relaxation in small vessels of eNOS-Tg mice is demonstrated for the first time in vivo. SR microangiography allows us to evaluate the reactivity in small-sized vessels and appears to be a powerful tool for assessing the microvascular circulation in vivo.

Association between IA-2 autoantibody epitope specificities and age of onset in Japanese patients with autoimmune diabetes

The IA-2 is a major autoantigen of type 1 diabetes belonging to the protein tyrosine phosphatase family. We report on the humoral autoimmunity to an alternatively-spliced variant of IA-2 (IA-2 variant) and autoimmune-mediated diabetes age of onset association with IA-2 autoantibody epitope specificities, in 144 recent-onset patients with type 1 diabetes and 54 GAD autoantibody-positive patients with type 2 diabetes. The cytoplasmic domain of IA-2 (IA-2ic) detected a somewhat greater proportion of patients expressing autoantibodies than IA-2 variant (56%vs. 52% of patients with type 1 diabetes and 17%vs. 9% of GAD autoantibody-positive patients with type 2 diabetes). Conversely, only 1% of IA-2 variant autoantibody-positive patients failed to react to IA-2ic construct. Among 80 patients with type 1 diabetes who were positive for autoantibodies to IA-2ic, 8% recognized the juxtamembrane region (JM, representing amino acids 601-629) only, 64% bound the protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP)-like domain of IA-2 only, and 29% bound both JM and PTP epitopes. Autoantibodies to the PTP-like domain were prevalent in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes. The age of disease onset in patients with IA-2JM autoantibodies only, was significantly higher than those in patients reacted with the PTP-like domain of IA-2 (P< 0.02). Among GAD autoantibody-positive patients with type 2 diabetes reacted with IA-2ic, 44% bound the JM region only, and 33% bound epitopes in the PTP-like domain only; 22% had autoantibodies to both regions. The frequency of GAD autoantibody-positive patients with type 2 diabetes positive for autoantibodies to the JM region only, was significantly higher than that in patients with type 1 diabetes (P< 0.01). IA-2PTP autoantibodies were significantly associated with HLA-DR4, while the additional reactivity to IA-2JM was associated with HLA-DR9 allele. These results suggest that autoantibody recognition of IA-2 epitopes in autoimmune diabetes is associated with age of disease onset, which may reflect the intensity of the beta-cell destruction process.

Transdermal ketoprofen mitigates the severity of postoperative sore throat : [Le kétoprofène transdermique réduit le mal de gorge postopératoire]

PURPOSE

To evaluate prospectively the incidence and severity of postoperative sore throat in 63 orotracheally intubated patients undergoing general anesthesia for various surgical procedures and to determine whether postoperative sore throat could be attenuated by treatment with the transdermal nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug ketoprofen applied on the anterior skin of the neck during operation.

METHOD

Patients were randomly assigned to have treatment with ketoprofen (ketoprofen group) or to have placebo tape treatment (control group). Postoperative analgesia was obtained by continuous epidural infusion of local anesthetics, and no narcotics were administered intraoperatively or postoperatively. All patients were interviewed postoperatively after 12-20 hr using a scoring scale questionnaire. Sore throat was scored as 0=no sore throat, 1=minimal, 2=mild, 3=moderate, 4=severe.

RESULTS

In the control group, 16 of 32 patients had a sore throat. In the ketoprofen group, less patients (ten of 31 patients) had a sore throat (not significant). The severity of sore throat was alleviated significantly in the ketoprofen group (P <0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study suggests the pain caused by tracheal intubation is relieved by intraoperative topical use of transdermal ketoprofen.

Atropine prevents midazolam-induced core hypothermia in elderly patients

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To test the hypothesis that core temperature is well preserved when atropine and midazolam are combined.

DESIGN

Randomized, blinded study.

SETTING

Department of Anesthesia, Yamanashi Medical University.

PATIENTS

40 elderly, ASA physical status I and II patients (aged more than 60 years).

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were randomly assigned (n = 10 per group) to premedication with: 1) saline control; 2) midazolam 0.05 mg/kg; 3) atropine 0.01 mg/kg; and 4) midazolam 0.05 mg/kg combined with atropine 0.01 mg/kg. All premedication was given on the ward at approximately 8:30 am, approximately 30 minutes before induction of anesthesia.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Core temperatures were measured at the right tympanic membrane. Mean skin temperature was calculated as 0.3 x (T(chest) + T(arm)) + 0.2 x (T(thigh) + T(calf)). Fingertip perfusion was evaluated using forearm minus fingertip and calf minus toe, skin-surface temperature gradients. Temperatures were evaluated at the time of premedication and 30 minutes later, just before induction of anesthesia. Core temperature remained nearly constant in the control patients (0.1 +/- 0.2 degrees C; mean +/- SD), whereas it decreased significantly in the patients given midazolam alone (-0.3 +/- 0.1 degrees C). Atropine alone increased core temperature (0.3 +/- 0.2 degrees C), although the increase was not statistically significant. The combination of midazolam and atropine attenuated the hypothermia induced by midazolam alone (0.0 +/- 0.2 degrees C). Initial skin-temperature gradients exceeded 0 degrees C in all groups, indicating that the patients were vasoconstricted. The gradients were unchanged by premedication with saline or atropine. Midazolam significantly decreased the gradient (-1.8 +/- 1.1 degrees C), as did the combination of midazolam and atropine (-1.4 +/- 0.9 degrees C).

CONCLUSIONS

The thermoregulatory effects of benzodiazepine receptor agonist and cholinergic inhibitors oppose each other, and the combination leaves core temperature unchanged.

Taste-enhancing effects of glycine on the sweetness of glucose: a gustatory aspect of symbiosis between the ant, Camponotus japonicus, and the larvae of the lycaenid butterfly, Niphanda fusca

The lycaenid butterfly, Niphanda fusca, has a parasitic relationship with its host ant, Camponotus japonicus: the caterpillars may use chemical mimicry to enter the ant nest where they are fed mouth-to-mouth by the adult ants until pupation. Nevertheless, larvae offer their host ants a nutritious secretion that contains 160 mM glucose and 43 mM glycine. Using glucose and glycine mixture as artificial secretions, we investigated the gustatory effect of glucose and/or glycine on the ants. Glycine induced neither feeding behavior nor gustatory response in the ants if its concentration was <500 mM. In the presence of glycine at the concentration in the secretion, however, the ants improved their preference to glucose, and the sugar receptor cell exhibited electrophysiological enhancement of response to glucose in a glycine-concentration-dependent manner. By adding glycine to glucose in their secretions, therefore, the butterfly larvae can manipulate the gustatory sense of the ants. The alluring taste of 'glycine-flavored glucose' could motivate the host ants to feed the larvae and thereby receive the secretions as a reward. The taste enhancement created by the combination of sugar and amino acid may play a role in the evolution of the parasitic relationships of these insects. The taste-enhancing effect appears to be analogous to taste enhancement by 'umami' substances in humans.

Separate measurements of the flexoelectric and surface polarization in a model nematic liquid crystal p-methoxybenzylidene-p'-butylaniline: validity of the quadrupolar approach

The temperature dependences of the surface polarization have been measured at the interface of a conductive glass with both the homogeneously and homeotropically oriented nematic liquid crystal p-methoxybenzylidene-p(')-butylaniline. The polarization was found in the field-off regime from the pyroelectric response of a cell to a short laser pulse, absorbed in the bulk of the liquid crystal. The temperature increment was calculated from the measurements of the birefringence induced by the same light pulse. It has been shown that the surface polarization at the homeotropic (m(h)) and planar (m(p)) interfaces is directed from an interface into the bulk and from the bulk to an interface, respectively (with a magnitude m(h) approximately -0.3 pC/m and m(p) approximately +0.2 pC/m at 25 degrees C). The experimental data may be explained in terms of the quadrupole model of the order-electric polarization with account of some additional contribution from molecular dipoles. The same technique also allows for the measurements of the z component of the flexoelectric polarization using a pyroelectric response of a hybrid (homeoplanar) aligned nematic cell and proper subtracting of the surface contributions. The flexoelectric polarization has been shown to be opposite to the sum of the surface terms m(h)+m(p) and directed from the planar to homeotropic interface. This means that the sum of the flexoelectric coefficients e=(e(1)+e(3)) is positive (e congruent with 1.7 pC/m at 28 degrees C). The temperature dependence of e has been shown to involve a combination of both the quadrupolar and dipolar contributions.

CTLA4 gene polymorphism contributes to the mode of onset of diabetes with antiglutamic acid decarboxylase antibody in Japanese patients: genetic analysis of diabetic patients with antiglutamic acid decarboxylase antibody

AIM

The mode of onset is occasionally similar in Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes mellitus, and some patients with Type 2 diabetes are positive for antiglutamic acid decarboxylase antibody (GAD Ab). We investigated the contribution of Type 1 diabetes susceptibility genes to the progression of the insulin-deficient state and mode of onset of Type 2 diabetes in GAD Ab-positive (GAD-Ab+) patients. We examined the variable number of tandem repeats in the promoter region of the insulin gene (INS-VNTR, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) 2) and cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA4, IDDM12) as representative of Type 1 diabetes susceptibility genes.

METHODS

Patients with Type 2 diabetes who were GAD-Ab+ (n = 51) were selected for this study. In INS-VNTR, the class I allele was classified according to length (1S, 25-38 repeat units; 1M, 39-41 repeat units; 1L, 42-44 repeat units) and the exact class I allele length was analysed by specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplifications. Analyses of classes II and III were performed by Southern blot. CTLA4 gene polymorphism (exon 1 position 49, G/A) was analysed by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism.

RESULTS

The distribution of INS-VNTR was no different between Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes with GAD Ab. The allele frequencies of CTLA4 gene polymorphism G and A in Type 2 diabetes/GAD-Ab+ were significantly different from those of Type 1 diabetes/GAD-Ab+ (G: 53%, A: 47% vs. G: 84%, A: 16%; P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data showed that GAD-Ab+ Japanese patients presenting with Type 2 diabetes have shifted A allele while patients with abrupt onset have shifted G allele of CTLA4 gene polymorphism. Our results suggest that immunological function and polymorphism of the CTLA4 gene may contribute to the pathogenesis and progression of Type 1 diabetes.

Resveratrol, a naturally occurring polyphenol, induces sister chromatid exchanges in a Chinese hamster lung (CHL) cell line

We tested the genotoxicity of 3,5,4'-trihydroxystilbene (resveratrol), a polyphenolic phytoalexin found in grapes, in a bacterial reverse mutation assay, in vitro chromosome aberration (CA) test, in vitro micronucleus (MN) test, and sister chromatid exchange (SCE) test. Resveratrol was negative in the strains we used in the bacterial reverse mutation assay (S. typhimurium TA98 and TA100 and E. coli WP2uvrA) in the absence and presence of a microsomal metabolizing system. It induced structural CAs at 2.5-20 microg/ml and showed weak aneuploidy induction in a Chinese hamster lung (CHL) cell line. It induced MN cells and polynuclear and karyorrhectic cells after 48h treatments in the in vitro MN test. In the SCE test, resveratrol caused a clear cell-cycle delay; at 10 microg/ml, the cell cycle took twice as long as it did in the control. Resveratrol induced SCEs dose-dependently at up to 10 microg/ml, at which it increased SCE six-fold, and the number was almost as large as mitomycin C, a strong SCE inducer. No second mitoses were observed at 20 microg/ml even after 54h. Cell cycle analysis by FACScan indicated that resveratrol caused S phase arrest, and 48h treatment induced apoptosis. Our results suggest that resveratrol may preferentially induce SCE but not CA, that is, it may cause S phase arrest only when SCEs are induced.

Effects of inspired oxygen concentration on peripheral microcirculation studied by the rabbit ear chamber method

The effects of oxygen inhalation on peripheral hemodynamics were studied in vivo. We observed changes in the cutaneous microcirculation in the rabbit under various inspiratory oxygen concentrations. Blood vessel diameter, blood-flow velocity and blood-flow rate were gradually reduced as oxygen concentrations were increased from 30%. These results indicate that inspiration of more than 30% oxygen causes deterioration of the microcirculation.

Isolation and characterization of two genes encoding ubiquitin fused to a ribosomal protein of 53 amino acids in rice

We isolated and determined the nucleotide sequences of two genes encoding ubiquitin fused to a ribosomal protein, Ub-CEP52, from rice (Oryza sativa L.). The deduced amino-acid sequences of the two genes were found to be completely identical. The N-terminal region of 76 residues corresponds to ubiquitin, and the C-terminal region of 53 residues corresponds to ribosomal protein L40. A putative TATA-like sequence, a polypyrimidine sequence, and a similar sequence to telo-box were found in the promoter regions of the two genes. Furthermore, the putative tRNA(Pro) gene was found in the 5'-upstream region of one of them.

An artificial sweetener stimulates the sweet taste in insect: dual effects of glycyrrhizin in Phormia regina

Glycyrrhizin, found in the root of licorice (Glycyrrhizia glabra), has been used extensively as a non-sugar sweetener for humans and also as a medicine. As far as we know, the present work is the first report describing that a non-sugar sweetener for humans induces a sweet taste in insects. In behavioural experiments, we found that glycyrrhizin induced the feeding response, including full proboscis extension in the blowfly, Phormia regina. Glycyrrhizin also induced impulses of the sugar receptor cell in the labellar chemosensillum, which is highly specialized for the tastes of sugars and nucleotides. The optimum concentration of glycyrrhizin was 3.0 mM, which is much lower than that of sucrose. It has been established that multiple receptor sites, the pyranose receptor site (P site) and the furanose receptor site (F site), are present in the sugar receptor cell of the blowfly and the fleshfly. The inhibitors specific to the P site, starch and PCMB (p-chloromercuribenzoate), partially inhibited glycyrrhizin-induced responses but not levan (an inhibitor to the F site), indicating that the P site on the sugar receptor cell is involved in the glycyrrhizin action but not the F site. When 30 s stimulation with 3.0 mM glycyrrhizin was repeated with an interval of 3--10 min, the impulse frequency to the second stimulus was higher than that to the first one and doubled within 6 min. The first stimulus lasting longer than 10 s potentiated the impulse generation and reduced the adaptation rate during the second stimulus. These results suggest that, in addition to the action via the P site, an additional mechanism, possibly in the signal transduction cascade of the sugar receptor cell, may be involved in the action of glycyrrhizin.

Neuregulins and the shaping of synapses

In developing and mature neural circuits, neural electrical activity controls the correct formation of connections and their state. Neuregulins (NRGs) mediate between the electrical neural activity and molecular components by regulating the expression of ion channel receptors or transmitter release in synapses. Furthermore, NRGs may be signaling factors involved in tuning locomotion or other higher functions by coordinating excitatory and inhibitory neurons.

Adrenalectomy-induced potentiation of morphine action in guinea-pig ileum: possible decrease in the release of endogenous opioids from opioidergic neurones

1. The effects of adrenalectomy on exogenous and endogenous opioid actions in guinea-pig isolated myenteric plexus-longitudinal muscle (MPLM) were investigated. 2. A decrease in serum cortisol level to about 37% of the level in the sham-operated group was obtained in adrenalectomized animals (sham: 53.5 +/- 7.2 microg 100 ml(-1); adrenalectomized: 20.0 +/- 3.6 microg 100 ml(-1)). 3. The concentration-response curve of twitch inhibition, which was induced by electrical field stimulation (0.1 Hz, 0.5 ms pulse width, maximum intensity), caused by a low concentration of morphine (5 x 10(-9)-5 x 10(-7) M) was not affected, but at high concentration (10(-6)-10(-5) M) there was an upward shift in the adrenalectomized group compared with the sham-operated control, although the basal twitch contraction was not changed by adrenalectomy. 4. The twitch inhibition induced by a high concentration of morphine (10(-6) M) in the adrenalectomized group was antagonized to the same level as that in sham-operated controls by naloxone (NLX) (3 x 10(-7) M). 5 Post-tetanic twitch inhibition, an indicator of endogenous opioid release, induced by tetanic stimulation (10 Hz, 0.5 ms pulse width, maximum intensity, for 1 min) was inhibited in the adrenalectomized group compared with the sham-operated controls. The antagonism of inhibition in both groups was equivalent to that exerted by NLX (10(-7) M). 6. Acetylcholine-evoked contraction of the muscle was not influenced by adrenalectomy. 7. These results suggested a possible mechanism for the increase in sensitivity of the opioid receptors to morphine by adrenalectomy, resulting from a decrease in the release of endogenous opioids from the opioidergic neurones in the ileum.

Further reduction of radiation dose in helical CT for lung cancer screening using small tube current and a newly designed filter

A new aluminum filter, 5.8 mm thick at the center, was designed. The effective energy, exposure dose, absorbed dose, and noise were measured by using low-dose technique, very low-dose technique with a conventional filter, and very low-dose technique with a new filter on a chest phantom. Accuracy of very low-dose computed tomography (CT) with a new filter was compared against standard helical CT in 40 patients and against chest radiography in 35 patients. Effective energies were 42.6 keV and 51.6 keV at a conventional filter and the new filter, respectively. Compared against 20mA with a conventional filter, exposure dose was reduced by 17%, and absorbed dose was equivalent, at 30 mA with the new filter. Noise was improved by 9%. Compared with standard helical CT, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of very-low-dose helical CT were 100%, 88%, and 95%, respectively. Very-low-dose helical CT was found to be significantly superior to chest radiography in the detection of lung cancers. Using a smaller tube current and an appropriate filter allows a further reduction in radiation dose in helical CT for lung cancer screening.

A calcium channel blocker, benidipine, inhibits intimal thickening in the carotid artery of mice by increasing nitric oxide production

OBJECTIVE

Recent studies suggest that several calcium channel blockers exert their protective effects against vascular disorders by increasing nitric oxide (NO) production from the endothelium. The purpose of this study was to clarify the effects of a long-lasting calcium channel blocker, benidipine, on vascular remodeling.

METHODS

The left common carotid arteries of mice were completely ligated just proximal to the carotid bifurcation. Treatment with benidipine (3 mg/kg per day) or vehicle was started 1 week before the carotid ligation, and continued throughout the experiments. Four weeks after the carotid ligation, these mice were killed and vascular remodeling was analyzed. Moreover, NO production and endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) expression were assessed.

RESULTS

At 4 weeks after ligation, the neointimal area in the vehicle-treated mice was 39,400 +/- 4,900 microm2 (n = 8), whereas that in the drug-treated mice was reduced to 18,300 +/- 3,800 microm2 (n = 10). Consequently, the luminal area was 35% larger in the drug-treated mice. Benidipine increased the basal as well as agonist-induced NO production from the endothelium, detected by Griess method or NOx analyzer. Endothelial NOS expression in vessels of the drug-treated mice was increased compared with that of the vehicle-treated mice.

CONCLUSION

Our data provide evidence that benidipine increases NO production via increment of eNOS protein in vessels and prevents intimal thickening in mice. These results show the possibility of benidipine as a protective tool against vascular remodeling independent of its effect on blood pressure.

Effect of coffee consumption on bone metabolism

The effects of coffee on bone metabolism are still controversial, although several studies have suggested that caffeine and/or heavy coffee consumption is associated with a significant increase in risk of fracture, osteoporosis, and periodontal disease. Therefore, we sought to clarify the relationship between coffee consumption and bone metabolism using male Wistar rats. Forty-eight male Wistar rats were assigned to three treatment groups including a control-diet group (control, n = 16, coffee-free diet), a 0.62% coffee-diet group (low caffeine, n = 16, diet supplemented with 6.2 g/kg of the control diet), and a 1.36% coffee-diet group (high caffeine, n = 16, diet supplemented with 13.6 g/kg of the control diet), and animals were maintained on an experimental diet for 140 days. Although caffeine in serum was not detected in rats fed the control diet, low-intake coffee for 140 days led to an increase in caffeine concentration to 0.53 +/- 0.11 microg/mL and high-intake coffee led to an increase of 1.77 +/- 0.22 microg/mL. No significant differences in body weight change, serum and urinary biochemical markers of bone metabolism, and bone histomorphometry were found between the coffee-diet groups and the control-diet group, except that urinary phosphorus excretion after 140 days of both coffee diets was significantly increased compared with controls (p < 0.05). In addition, the coffee diets were not associated with differences in tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6, which have been implicated in the pathogenesis of bone loss together with interleukin-1beta. In conclusion, the present study strongly indicates that coffee does not stimulate bone loss in rats.

Level of plasma tissue factor pathway inhibitor is inversely correlated with intraarterial diastolic pressure in subjects who underwent coronary angiography

There are only a few studies of the relationship between hemostatic abnormalities and intraarterial pressure, so the present study investigated the association of various newer lipid and hemostatic variables with intraarterial pressure levels. Levels of total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride, lipoprotein-(a), remnant-like particle cholesterol, cholesteryl ester transfer protein, uric acid, blood glucose, fibrinogen, free form of tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI), C-reactive protein, serum amyloid A protein, anti-Chlamydia pneumoniae immunoglobulin G and immunoglobulin A, and apolipoproteins (apo) A-I, B, and E were measured in 176 patients who underwent diagnostic coronary angiography. Intraarterial blood pressure was determined from central aortic pressure using a standard fluid-filled catheter-external transducer system. Multivariate regression analyses showed that TFPI level was the only independent factor associated with aortic diastolic pressure. The linear regression equation demonstrated a significant negative correlation of TFPI level with aortic diastolic pressure (r=-0.395, p=0.0011). With respect to the association with other parameters, the TFPI level showed significant correlations between the HDL-C level and the apo A-I level, both in the overall patients and in the patients with coronary artery stenosis. This is the first evidence that the level of the plasma free form of TFPI is inversely correlated to aortic diastolic pressure.

Prognostic value of thymidine phosphorylase immunostaining in patients with uterine cervical cancer treated concurrently with doxifluridine, radiotherapy and immunotherapy

Thymidine phosphorylase (dThdPase) is reportedly identical to platelet-derived endothelial cell growth factor (PD-ECGF). We conducted immunohistochemical staining of dThdPase to assess correlation between its expression in cancer tissue and efficacy of a combination therapy with 5'-DFUR, radiotherapy and sizofilan (SPG) in uterine cervical cancer patients. No difference in response rates was observed between dThdPase positive and negative tumor and stromal cells. Survival curves significantly differed between stromal dThdPase positive and negative groups (p=0.032). Results showed that dThdPase immunostaining is possibly prognostic and predictive in determining success of the combination therapy.

Effects of concomitant use of doxifluridine, radiotherapy and immunotherapy in patients with advanced cervical cancer

Clinical effects of doxifluridine (group A, 600 mg/body/day; group B, 800 mg/body/day) combined with radiotherapy and immunotherapy were evaluated in patients with advanced cancer of the uterine cervix. Response rates were 84.2% (16/19 patients) in group A and 100% (18/18 patients) in group B, respectively (p=0.230). There was no significant difference in adverse reaction incidence between the methods but significantly higher grade adverse reaction were observed in group B than in group A (p=0.048). Time to progression (TTP) was longer in group B than in group A (p=0.081). The optimal 5'-DFUR dose was 800 mg/body (group B), by which higher grade adverse reactions were fully controlled and TTP was prolonged.