Total cystoprostatectomy in the treatment of locally advanced prostate carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

Locally advanced prostate carcinoma frequently causes lower urinary tract symptoms and is a clinical challenge when radiation and/or hormone therapy fail. We investigated whether cystoprostatectomy with urinary diversion benefits patients with locally advanced prostate carcinoma in terms of quality of life and prognostic outcome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1989 and 2001, we performed 15 cystoprostatectomies for stage C-D1 prostate carcinoma with bladder neck involvement. Of these patients, 5 underwent ileal conduit, 8 rectal bladder, 1 Koch pouch, and 1 ureterocutaneostomy. All the patients received neoadjuvant and/or adjuvant hormonal therapy. In the same period, 28 patients underwent retropubic prostatectomies and 15 patients received hormone therapy alone for stage C-Dl disease. These patients were included as references.

RESULTS

Lower urinary tract symptoms caused by bladder involvement were controlled well until the end of follow-up for all the patients in the cystoprostatectomy group. There was no statistically significant difference in QOL score assessed with the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire between the prostatectomy group and the cystoprostatectomy group, while that in the hormone therapy group was lower than those in the surgery groups. There was no statistically significant difference in 5-year PSA-relapse-free survival among cystoprostatectomy, prostatectomy, and hormone therapy groups. Patients in the hormone therapy group died earlier than those in the prostatectomy group (p = 0.02), while those in the cystoprostatectomy group did not.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that total cystoprostatectomy with urinary diversion is a valid option, in terms of disease control and QOL, for prostate cancer patients whose tumor is infiltrating into the bladder.

[Can we predict the premature labor in patients with placenta previa?; a retrospective study on maternal symptoms during pregnancy]

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to predict the gestational weeks by characterizing maternal genital bleeding and uterine contraction during pregnancy in patients with placenta previa.

METHODS

Included in this study were 87 patients with placenta previa, diagnosed at the time of delivery at our institution. Genital bleeding and uterine contraction characteristics and clinical data from mothers who delivered at < 37 weeks were compared to that of mothers who delivered at > or = 37 weeks.

RESULTS

There were 37 deliveries (42.5%) at < 37 gestational weeks and 50 deliveries (57.4%) at > or = 37 gestational weeks. In 69 of 87 cases (79.3%), genital bleeding was recognized during pregnancy, and in 63 cases (72.4%) genital bleeding was the first symptom to occur during pregnancy. Uterine contraction during pregnancy was recognized in 48 cases (55.2%), including 36 (41.4%) that occurred as the first symptom of pregnancy. Logistic regression analysis revealed that when genital bleeding occurred at < 29 and < 31 weeks, patients were at high risk for delivery at < 34 and < 37 weeks, respectively, and when first uterine contraction occurred at < 29 weeks, they were at high risk for delivery at < 34 weeks.

CONCLUSION

In patients with placenta previa, the number of gestational weeks to the occurrence of the first genital bleeding can be used as a predictor of the number of weeks to term.

[Congenital tracheal stenosis due to complete cartilage rings with right pulmonary agenesis]

A 2-month-old male infant with severe dyspnea was diagnosed as having right pulmonary agenesis at birth and was admitted to our hospital after tracheal intubation with an endotracheal tube of 3 mm in diameter. However, the trachea was too stenotic to place the tube in the proper position. Chest X-ray on admission showed pneumonia of the left lung. Preoperative chest computed tomography (CT) scan and bronchoscopy showed that from the level of 12 mm beneath the coricoid cartilage, the trachea tapered and continuing to the tracheal carina and that the smallest tracheal level was located 18 mm distal from the coricoid cartilage, the area of which was 4 mm2. His respiratory condition rapidly deteriorated in spite of intravenous administration of antibiotics and mechanical ventilation. Percutaneous cardiopulmonary support (PCPS) was used to maintain his pulmonary function, and pericardial tracheoplasty was performed. Chest X-ray immediately after the operation did not show left lung reexpansion due to severe pulmonary edema. High-dose steroid pulse therapy was performed, but it was not effective. He died from acute respiratory failure due to infantile respiratory distress syndrome (IRDS) on postoperative day 3. The outcome in this case shows that it is very risky to repair tracheal stenosis in a patient with pneumonia using PCPS.

[Long-term results of atriopulmonary fontan connection for complex cardiac anomalies]

To evaluate the long-term results of atriopulmonary Fontan connection, we reviewed the outcome of 20 consecutive patients (single ventricle 8, double outlet right ventricle 8, tricuspid atresia 3, mitral atresia 1; mean age, 13 +/- 11) who underwent this operation between 1981 and 1997 at our institution. Glenn shunt preceded Fontan operation in 1 patient. Four patients had a concomitant bidirectional Glenn anastomosis at the time of the Fontan operation. Follow-up was 100% complete, and total cumulative follow-up of all patients was 241 patient-years (maximum, 20 years). Three hospital deaths and 5 late deaths were observed, resulting in 58 +/- 11% of cumulative survival at 20 years after the operation. Sudden death probably due to arrhythmias was the major cause of the late death, and occurred in 3 patients. Reoperation was required in 5 patients (2%/patient-year) at 1 to 17 years postoperatively. Re-closure of an atrioventricular valve was performed for failure of the valve closure in 3 patients at 1 to 6 years postoperatively. Reconstruction of the stenotic atriopulmonary connection (APC) was concomitantly required in 2 of the 3 patients. Pacemaker implantation was required for bradycardia with atrial fibrillation in 1 patient at 17 years. One patient with atrial flutter developed intraright atrial thrombosis at 12 years after the initial Fontan operation, and this patient underwent conversion to extracardiac conduit cavopulmonary connection with right atrial maze procedure. Atrial tachyarrhythmias are most common complications, and occurred in 12 patients (5.0%/patient-year), resulting in 40 +/- 13% of the cumulative free rate at 15 years after the operation. Thus, failure of the atrioventricular valve closure and stenosis of APC were important early to intermediate complications after the atriopulmonary Fontan connection. On the other hand, atrial tachyarrhythmias were inevitable, and were most common late complications leading to intra-right atrial thrombosis, which was successfully resolved by conversion of the conventional atriopulmonary Fontan anastomosis to extracardiac conduit cavopulmonary connection.

Nanofiltration of single plasma donations: feasibility study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Major technical developments have been made in recent years to improve the quality and safety of human plasma for transfusion and fractionation. The present study was performed to assess, for the first time, the feasibility of applying a nanofiltration process, using 75-nm and 35-nm mean pore size membranes (Planova) 75N and Planova 35N), to human plasma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ten apheresis plasma units were obtained from 10 plasma donors. Within 4 h of collection, plasma was subjected to leucoreduction and filtration (using 75-nm and 35-nm mean pore size membranes) at 35 degrees C, at less than 1 bar pressure. Aliquots of plasma were taken at all steps of the filtration procedure and numerous plasma quality parameters were measured. In addition, six hepatitis C virus (HCV)-positive plasma donations were experimentally subjected to the same filtration sequence and subsequently assessed by RNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and branched-chain DNA-quantification assays.

RESULTS

Leucoreduced plasma can be reproducibly nanofiltered onto a sequence of 75-nm and 35-nm membranes, at a flow rate of 450 ml/h and a temperature of 35 +/- 0.5 degrees C. Some protein dilution, or loss, was found during filtration, but the plasma filtered through membranes with a mean pore size of 75 nm and 35 nm met in vitro specifications for use in transfusion or fractionation. There were no signs of activation of the coagulation system. HCV-positive plasma donations became negative, as judged by PCR and branched-chain DNA assay results, after filtration through the 35-nm membrane.

CONCLUSIONS

It is possible to apply a 75 + 35-nm filtration process to leucoreduced human plasma. This technology may have important future benefits in improving the quality and safety of plasma, by removing blood cell debris and infectious agents.

Identification of a stable chymase inhibitor using a pharmacophore-Based database search

In general, serine protease chymase inhibitors readily decompose in plasma. We previously found that thiazolidine-2,4-dione and thiadiazole derivatives are also unstable. Using a pharmacophore-based database search, we identified a benzo[b]thiophen-2-sulfonamide derivative as a stable chymase inhibitor. Finding a lead compound with adequate activity and stability by a pharmacophore-based approach is more efficient than modifying an unstable compound to reduce its instability without simultaneously decreasing its inhibitory activity. Our pharmacophore model of chymase inhibitors suggests that the two hydrophobic interactions in the S1 and S1' regions and the two H-bonding interactions between them play important roles in chymase inhibitors.

[Thoracoscopic surgery for metastatic lung tumors: computed tomography-guided localization with use of a needle with a suture]

When a metastatic lung tumor is found to be deep to the visceral surface of the pleura, or when it is found to be a small lesion, it may important to help identify the lesion by preoperative methods in order to localize it at the time of thoracoscopic operation. We performed computed tomography-guided localization of metastatic lung tumors with use of a needle with a suture in 11 cases prior to thoracoscopic resection. Placement of the needle, immediately before moving to the operation room were successfully performed in all patients. It took from 16 to 25 minutes (20.3 minutes on average). Complications included minimal pneumothorax in 8 patients, mild airway bleeding in 2, and penetration through the middle lobe to the lower lobe of the right lung in 1. However, treatment was not necessary in any of the patients. Thoracoscopic resections were successfully achieved in all patients. Our technique may be a simpler technique and advantageous for identification of small lesions and lesions deep to the visceral surface of the pleura during the thoracoscopic operation for metastatic lung tumors.

[Surgery for metastatic lung tumors at our department during the last ten years]

We report on 86 cases (112 operations) who underwent surgery for metastatic lung tumors at our department during the last 10 years. The study subjects comprised 53 men and 33 women, and the average age was 51 (+/- 19) years. Of the 112 metastatectomies performed, 53 were conducted by video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS), and 59 were performed via thoracotomy. The procedures employed for metastatectomy were lobectomy (22 cases), segmentectomy (4 cases), and partial resection. wedge resection (86 cases). The primary origin of the metastatic tumors was colorectal carcinoma in 22 cases, osteosarcoma in 13 cases, renal carcinoma in 10 cases, and breast carcinoma in 6 cases. The 5-year survival rates in subjects undergoing first and second resection for pulmonary metastases were 46% and 44%. Metastatectomy was performed 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7 times in 73, 7, 1, 2, 2, 1 cases, respectively. The average number and maximum diameter of the metastatic pulmonary lesions at first metastatectomy were 1.9 and 27.6 mm. Metastatectomy is performed, as a rule, by VATS at our department, because the more highly invasive thoracotomy procedure influences the activity of the cancer cells in a suspended phase in an unfavorable manner. Furthermore, we believe that to the maximum extent possible, re-metastatectomy should also be performed by VATS. The survival rates at our institution have been satisfactory, and we attribute this to our following strict indications for metastatectomy. Re-metastatectomy should always be considered, as the survival rates are as favorable as those following the first metastatectomy.

Kinetic analysis of P-glycoprotein-mediated transport by using normal human placental brush-border membrane vesicles

PURPOSE

P-Glycoprotein (Pgp) plays an important role in drug disposition and excretion in various tissues such as the brain, intestine, and kidney. Moreover, we have demonstrated that Pgp is expressed on the brush-border membranes of trophoblast cells in the placenta and restricts drug transfer from the maternal circulation to the fetus. However, the transport kinetics of physiologically expressed Pgp has scarcely been investigated.

METHODS

In this study, we assessed the functional kinetics of transport mediated by Pgp that is physiologically expressed in normal tissue by using human placental brush-border membrane vesicles (BBMVs). Digoxin and vinblastine were used as typical substrates of Pgp.

RESULTS

The uptakes of [3H]digoxin and [3H]vinblastine into BBMVs were significantly increased in the presence of an ATP-regenerating system. The ATP-dependent uptakes of [3H]digoxin and [3H]vinblastine into BBMVs exhibited saturable kinetics. The Michaelis constants (Kt values) were 2.65 +/- 1.80 microM and 21.9 +/- 3.37 microM, respectively. In the presence of a Pgp inhibitor such as verapamil, cyclosporine A, or progesterone, the ATP-dependent uptakes of [3H]digoxin and [3H]vinblastine into BBMVs were significantly reduced. Anti-Pgp monoclonal antibody C219 completely inhibited the uptake of [3H]digoxin.

CONCLUSIONS

The transport kinetics of [3H]digoxin and [3H]vinblastine by physiologically expressed Pgp were successfully evaluated by using BBMVs prepared from normal human placenta. The present method enabled us to evaluate the function of physiologically expressed Pgp and is superior to the use of cultured transfectants in terms of the yield of vesicles. The present method may also be applicable to investigating the influence of various factors such as the genotype of the MDR1 gene or various pathophysiologic states of neonates on the function of Pgp.

Ascending aortic cannulation via left thoracotomy for distal aortic arch aneurysm operation

We have cannulated the ascending aorta for cardiopulmonary bypass via left thoracotomy in order to avoid conventional retrograde perfusion from the femoral arteries, which is associated with an increased risk of cerebral embolism. We use silk sutures to retract the anterior margin of the opened pericardium from the chest wall, which provides good exposure and easy control of the ascending aorta. Between July 1997 and November 2000, cannulation proved easy to do and reliable in 24 serial patients.

Intermittent 'double bubble' sign in a case of congenital pyloric atresia

We report a case of congenital pyloric atresia in which two cystic masses in the fetal upper abdomen and polyhydramnios were observed from 24 weeks' gestation to term. The two cystic masses were thought to indicate the 'double bubble' sign in utero, leading to a misdiagnosis of congenital duodenal obstruction. At 33 weeks' gestation, continuous ultrasound observation of the two cystic masses was made for 60 min. During the periods when gastric peristalsis was absent, the 'double bubble' sign was observed. However, during the periods when gastric peristalsis was present, the 'double bubble' sign disappeared. In retrospect, both cystic masses were stomach and the 'double bubble' sign disappeared with peristalsis of the antrum. In order to differentiate from congenital duodenal obstruction, whole stomach configuration should be delineated by continuous observation covering periods when gastric peristalsis is active as well as quiet.

Aortic pulse waveforms for evaluating cardiac performance in the human fetus

Pulse waveforms of the fetal descending aorta were obtained using an echo-tracking system to clarify the gestational age-related changes and the usefulness for detecting cardiac dysfunction. Peak systolic (PSD) and end diastolic diameter (EDD), pulse amplitude (Amp) and Amp:EDD ratio, calculated from the pulse waveforms, were adopted for analysis. In 196 normal fetuses after 20 weeks, the PSD, EDD and Amp increased, and Amp:EDD ratio decreased linearly with advancing gestation. The 19 fetuses with suspected cardiac dysfunction were divided into healthy and altered cardiac function subgroups, according to the values of fractional shortening and preload index. Of these, 7 fetuses with cardiac dysfunction had significantly higher incidence of low Amp (p < 0.01) and Amp:EDD ratio (p < 0.001) than remaining 12 fetuses with normal cardiac function. The pulse waveform analysis in the fetal descending aorta proved useful for detecting fetal cardiac dysfunction in utero.

Antenatal sonographic detection of vesicoureteral reflux. A case report

We report a case with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), diagnosed antenatally. A 31-year-old Japanese woman was referred at 37 weeks' gestation because of the fetus having unilateral renal pelvis dilatation. The real-time ultrasound revealed a right renal pyelectasia with periodic changes in size over intervals lasting several minutes. The simultaneous examinations of both anteroposterior dimension of the renal pelvis and the ellipse size of urine-filled bladder area demonstrated that they varied in size in a reciprocal fashion, leading us to diagnose the fetus as having VUR. Postnatally, bilateral VUR was confirmed by the voiding cystogram. This case has typical ultrasonographic findings of fetal VUR, in which both the renal pelvis and urinary bladder dimensions change periodically in a reciprocal manner with each other, when the reflux really occurred.

[Initial use of the newly developed voice-controlled robot system for a solitary pulmonary arterio-venous malformation]

We herein report an initial experience of thoracoscopic surgery for a solitary arterior-venous malformation (PAVM) with the AESOP 3000 HR voice-controlled robot to hold a thoracoscope. A 52-year-old woman was hospitalized due to a transient loss of consciousness. A brain magnetic resonance image and electroencephalogram (EEG) were normal. A chest computed tomogram indicated a suspicion of PAVM. The definite diagnosis of the PAVM was made by the 3-dimensional computed tomogram and pulmonary angiography. Thoracoscopic operation with the voice-controlled robot (AESOP 3000 HR) was conducted. The operating staffs were able to assemble the AESOP 3000 HR robotic system safely and quickly without difficulty. The robot functioned without problems throughout the procedure. No complications or events related or unrelated to the maneuvers of the robot during the operation were noted. The procedure of the pulmonary resection with the voice-controlled robot was successfully preformed by a single surgeon. The operating time was 110 minutes, and the volume of the intraoperative bleeding was 10 g. The postoperative course was uneventful. The use of the AESOP 3000 HR robot may be more convenient and friendly in thoracoscopic procedure.

Characteristics of L-lactic acid transport in basal membrane vesicles of human placental syncytiotrophoblast

The characteristics of L-lactic acid transport across the trophoblast basal membrane were investigated and compared with those across the brush-border membrane by using membrane vesicles isolated from human placenta. The uptake of L-[(14)C]lactic acid into basal membrane vesicles was Na(+) independent, and an uphill transport was observed in the presence of a pH gradient ([H(+)](out) > [H(+)](in)). L-[(14)C]lactic acid uptake exhibited saturation kinetics with a K(m) value of 5.89 +/- 0.68 mM in the presence of a pH gradient. p-Chloromercuribenzenesulfonate and alpha-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamate inhibited the initial uptake, whereas phloretin or 4,4'-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonate did not. Mono- and dicarboxylic acids suppressed the initial uptake. In conclusion, L-lactic acid transport in the basal membrane is H(+) dependent and Na(+) independent, as is also the case for the brush-border membrane transport, and its characteristics resemble those of monocarboxylic acid transporters. However, there were several differences in the effects of inhibitors between basal and brush-border membrane vesicles, suggesting that the transporter(s) involved in L-lactic acid transport in the basal membrane of placental trophoblast may differ from those in the brush-border membrane.

Effects of mutation in hepatitis C virus nonstructural protein 5A on interferon resistance mediated by inhibition of PKR kinase activity in mammalian cells

The IFN-induced double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-activated protein kinase PKR is one of the key molecules in the antiviral effects of IFN. To clarify the effects of hepatitis C virus nonstructural protein 5A (NS5A) on antiviral activity of IFN, in particular on PKR kinase activity, in mammalian cells, we established inducible NS5A-expressing cell lines derived from human osteosarcoma (Saos-2). The cells expressing NS5A derived from an IFN-resistant clone (NS5A-lb) that interacted with endogenous PKR in vitro, showed a suppressive effect on IFN function as determined by interference with vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) infection, whereas NS5A (NS5A-2a) from an IFN-sensitive clone did not block the antiviral effect of IFN. A mutant with deletion of the IFN sensitivity determining region (ISDR) in NS5A-1b (NS5A-AISDR) also interacted with PKR and suppressed its activity in vitro. However, neither NS5A-2a nor the C-terminal truncated mutant of NS5A-1b (NS5A-deltaC) blocked PKR activity. These observations confirmed the previous report that the inhibitory effect of NS5A on IFN activity is mediated at least in part by the repression of PKR. In addition, we showed that IFN sensitivity was determined not only by the ISDR but that the involvement of the C-terminal region of NS5A-1b is important for the suppression of PKR activity.

The first large-scale nucleic acid amplification testing (NAT) of donated blood using multiplex reagent for simultaneous detection of HBV, HCV, and HIV-1 and significance of NAT for HBV

The first nationwide nucleic acid amplification testing (NAT) for hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) of voluntarily donated blood after serological pre-screening and before release of cellular components and plasma for fractionation was implemented by the Japanese Red Cross Blood Transfusion Services. From February 1, 2000 to April 30, 2001, specimens from 6,805,010 units of serologically negative donation were screened in minipools of 50 samples within 24 hr after blood donation by NAT using multiplex HBV/HCV/HIV-1 reagent for blood transfusion including short shelf-life platelets. Among them, 112 HBV DNA-positives, 25 HCV RNA positives and 4 HIV-1 RNA positives were screened out and we could prevent transfusion of these NAT positive units. Subtypes/genotypes of HBV DNA, adr/C, adw/A, adw/B, adw/C, ayr/C and ayw/D were found and adr/C was predominant. A total of 61.6 % of them (69/112) were negative by overnight EIA. Sixth three of HBV NAT-positive samples carried virus loads less than 10(4) copies/mL and 92.1 % of them (58/63) were negative by overnight EIA. The virus growth curves of HBV in 6 cases obtained by retrospective and prospective follow-up study showed exponential straight lines in the early stage of serological window periods and the log times of HBV growth (10 fold increase) in serological window period were between 4.6 and 7.6 days. NAT screening with highly sensitive reagents in pool of specimens is useful to exclude blood units with low level of HBV and HBV mutants from blood transfusion.

H(+)-linked transport of salicylic acid, an NSAID, in the human trophoblast cell line BeWo

We investigated the transport of salicylic acid and L-lactic acid across the placenta using the human trophoblast cell line BeWo. We performed uptake experiments and measured the change in intracellular pH (pH(i)). The uptakes of [(14)C]salicylic acid and L-[(14)C]lactic acid were temperature- and extracellular pH-dependent and saturable at higher concentrations. Both uptakes were also reduced by FCCP, nigericin, and NaN(3). Various nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) strongly inhibited the uptake of L-[(14)C]lactic acid. Salicylic acid and ibuprofen noncompetitively inhibited the uptake of L-[(14)C]lactic acid. alpha-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamate (CHC), a monocarboxylate transporter inhibitor, suppressed the uptake of L-[(14)C]lactic acid but not that of [(14)C]salicylic acid. CHC also suppressed the decrease of pH(i) induced by L-lactic acid but had little effect on that induced by salicylic acid or diclofenac. These results suggest that NSAIDs are potent inhibitors of lactate transporters, although they are transported mainly by a transport system distinct from that for L-lactic acid.

Spontaneous rupture of the renal pelvis during pregnancy: a case report and review of the literature

We report a case with spontaneous rupture of the renal pelvis during pregnancy. A 34-year-old Japanese woman was referred at 20 weeks' gestation because of sudden severe right flank pain. She had severe colic pain radiating to the right lower abdomen with percussion tenderness at the right costovertebral angle and was initially suspected to have renal/ureteral calculi. Ultrasonography and intravenous pyelography showed urine extravasating from the renal pelvis, indicating rupture of the right renal pelvis. Immediately following the insertion of a double-J indwelling catheter, her symptoms and perirenal extravasation ceased. She had no further urological problems during pregnancy and a male infant was delivered at 41 weeks' gestation. Cases with spontaneous rupture of the renal pelvis in pregnancy are reviewed.

[Bronchoscopic treatment for upper tracheal lesions with a laryngeal mask]

A laryngeal mask provides maintaining airway with a larger inner diameter of the tube. A little information is available about bronchoscopic treatment for upper tracheal lesions. Three patients undergoing bronchoscopic treatment for upper tracheal lesions with a laryngeal mask were reviewed. The patients include 3 women, having 2 thyroid cancers and 1 thyroid goiter. The aims of the procedure were hemostasis and reduction of the tumor with subsequent endotracheal stenting in 2 patients, and endotracheal stenting in one patient. The treatment was performed under general anesthesia using a laryngeal mask. All cases were successfully treated without operative and postoperative complications related to the use of the laryngeal mask placement. Use of a laryngeal mask may facilitate insertion and retrieval of a flexible bronchoscope and instruments with an excellent manipulation in therapeutic bronchoscopy for subglottic and upper tracheal lesions.

IGF-related proteins at birth in a case of antenatally diagnosed Silver-Russell syndrome

We report here a case with severe intrauterine growth restriction from the first trimester and clinical features of Silver-Russell syndrome including microcephaly, low-set ear, atrial septum defect, ventricular septum defect, diaphragmatic relaxation, and rocker bottom feet. Silver-Russell syndrome is thought to result from deletion of the distal long arm of chromosome 15 on which the IGF-I receptor (IGF-IR) gene is located. We measured both the maternal and cord blood levels of GH, IGF-I, and IGF-binding protein and performed an immunohistochemical study of IGF-IR in the placenta to investigate whether these IGF-related proteins were affected in this patient. The hormonal level of these proteins did not significantly differ from normal neonates, and immunohistochemical analysis suggested IGF-IR protein levels in the placenta were comparable to normal term neonates. These results support the hypothesis that growth insufficiency could occur in patients with monosomy of the distal long arm of chromosome 15 and suggest a critical threshold for IGF-related fetal growth in early pregnancy.

Proton gradient-dependent transport of valproic acid in human placental brush-border membrane vesicles

PURPOSE

To investigate the transport mechanism of valproic acid across the human placenta, we used human placental brush-border membrane vesicles and compared them with that of lactic acid.

METHODS

Transport of [3H]valproic acid and [14C]lactic acid was measured by using human placental brush-border membrane vesicles.

RESULTS

The uptakes of [3H]valproic acid and [14C]lactic acid into brush-border membrane vesicles were greatly stimulated at acidic extravesicular pH. The uptakes of [3H]valproic acid and [14C]lactic acid were inhibited by various fatty acids, p-chloromercuribenzene sulfonate, alpha-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamate, and FCCP. A kinetic analysis showed that it was saturable, with Michaelis constants (Kt) of 1.04 +/- 0.41 mM and 1.71 +/- 0.33 mM for [3H]valproic acid and [14C]lactic acid, respectively. Furthermore, lactic acid competitively inhibited [3H]valproic acid uptake and vice versa.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that the transport of valproic acid across the microvillous membrane of human placenta is mediated by a proton-linked transport system that also transports lactic acid. However, some inhibitors differentially inhibited the uptakes of [3H]valproic acid and [14C]lactic acid, suggesting that other transport systems may also contribute to the elevated fetal blood concentration of valproic acid in gravida.

Significance of platelet-reactive antibody screening for patients facing frequent platelet transfusions

It is not clear whether platelet-reactive antibody screening is clinically significant for patients facing frequent platelet transfusions. On the basis of data from 96 patients who had been examined for platelet-reactive antibodies by the mixed passive hemagglutination method for a variety of reasons, we investigated the following three issues retrospectively: (1) the relationship between platelet-reactive antibodies and the occurrence of problems in platelet transfusions, such as refractoriness or nonhemolytic reactions; (2) the influence of a history of transfusion on the production of those antibodies; and (3) the effect of screening for those antibodies on the prompt administration of appropriate platelet components. More than half of the platelet transfusion-related problems were associated with platelet-reactive antibodies. For patients with a history of transfusion, the mean period before a clinical problem occurred with platelet transfusions was 9 days,compared with 66 days for those without such a history. Accordingly, during the period, patients with a history of transfusions received fewer units of platelets and had fewer donor exposures than did patients without such a history. On the other hand, most patients who had been screened in advance for those antibodies received appropriate platelet components without delay, whereas an average of 10 days was needed before those who had not been screened received compatible platelets. The patients who had not been screened were transfused with 68 units of random platelets on average during the period. When frequent platelet transfusions are anticipated, especially for patients with a history of transfusion, screening for platelet-reactive antibodies beforehand would be helpful for prompt administration of appropriate platelets, although problems, such as the cost of those platelets and the burden on donors, remain to be resolved.

Observation of the isomer effect on charge transfer from C3H4 molecules (allene and propyne) at keV energies

The apparent isomer effect on charge transfer processes in collisions of the ground-state C+ ions with allene and propyne, which have the same C3H4 molecular chemical notation, has been observed experimentally in the collision energy from 0.2 to 4.5 keV. The difference in total charge transfer cross sections between the two isomers was found to be 32% at 0.2 keV, although it decreases to 10% at 4.5 keV. This difference is out of experimental uncertainty of 14.6% at least below the collision energy of 0.5 keV and should be regarded as a real isomer effect. Theoretical analysis based on a molecular orbital expansion method has also confirmed the experimental finding and provided the rationale.

Cytokine and immunogenetic profiles in Japanese patients with adult Still's disease. Association with chronic articular disease

OBJECTIVE

To determine cytokines and MHC class II alleles in Japanese patients with adult Still's disease (ASD) and clarify the association between those profiles and chronic articular disease.

METHODS

Of 35 patients with ASD (13 men, 22 women, mean age at onset 34.0 yr), 17 (49%) had chronic arthritis (>6 months, chronic articular ASD) and 18 (51%) lacked chronic arthritis (systemic ASD). Cytokines and cytokine receptors in sera were measured by ELISA. Correlations of each cytokine with disease activity or C-reactive protein (CRP) were determined. MHC class II alleles were examined by polymerase chain reaction methods.

RESULTS

In chronic articular ASD, female gender was more frequent and liver dysfunction and myalgia were rarer than in systemic ASD. In active disease, the white blood cell count was lower, but total IgG was greater in patients with chronic articular ASD than in those with systemic ASD. Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) alpha, soluble TNF receptor 2 and interleukin (IL)-18 were increased in both types of ASD, even in remission. Soluble IL-2 receptors, IL-4 and IL-18 levels were correlated with disease activity or CRP value only in chronic articular ASD. Interferon gamma and IL-8 remained increased only in chronic articular ASD, even when disease activity, including IL-6 and CRP, was low. DRB1*1501 (DR2) and DRB1*1201 (DR5) alleles were more frequent in chronic articular than in systemic ASD, whereas DQB1*0602 (DQ1) was frequently observed in both types of ASD.

CONCLUSION

The present study suggests that ASD with chronic articular disease has distinct clinical, cytokine and immunogenetic profiles.

Relationship between toxicity and cadmium accumulation in rats given low amounts of cadmium chloride or cadmium-polluted rice for 22 months

To clarify toxic effects of long-term oral administration of low dose cadmium (Cd) on the liver and kidney, six groups of female Sprague-Dawley rats were fed a diet containing Cd-polluted rice or CdCl2 at concentrations up to 40 ppm, and killed after 12, 18, and 22 months. With toxicological parameters, including histopathology, there was no evidence of Cd-related hepato-renal toxicity, despite a slight decrease of mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular hemoglobin of red blood cells with 40 ppm CdCl2. Dose-dependent accumulation of Cd was observed in the liver and kidneys with peak levels of 130 +/- 42 micrograms/g and 120 +/- 20 micrograms/g, respectively, at 18 months in animals treated with 40 ppm CdCl2. A dose-dependent increase in urinary Cd levels became evident with time. Induction of metallothionein (MT) was also observed in the liver and kidney with a high correlation to the corresponding Cd levels. In the proximal renal tubular epithelia of 40 ppm CdCl2-treated rats at 22 months, prominent accumulation of Cd was observed in secondary lysosomes associated with MT deposits in their exocytotic residual bodies. The results demonstrated that, in contrast to the case with high-dose Cd-administration, renal toxicity is not induced by long-term oral administration of low amounts of Cd, although tissue accumulation does occur. Possible protective mechanisms may be operating.

Antianginal effects of hydroxyfasudil, a Rho-kinase inhibitor, in a canine model of effort angina

1. The effects of Rho-kinase inhibitor, fasudil, and of a more specific Rho-kinase inhibitor, hydroxyfasudil, on pacing-induced myocardial ischaemia were determined in anaesthetized open-chest dogs. 2. The dogs were subjected to left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) stenosis producing a sufficient ischaemia as measured by ST-segment depression on electrocardiograms only when the hearts were paced 60 beats min(-1) above the baseline. After a recovery (nonpacing) period, drugs or saline were infused intravenously over 30 min. The animals were again subjected to 5 min of pacing 25 min after the initiation of the treatment. 3. Hydroxyfasudil (0.1 and 0.3 mg kg(-1)) and fasudil (0.3 mg kg(-1)) suppressed the ST-segment depression. Hydroxyfasudil and fasudil also increased the regional blood flow of the LAD perfused endomyocardium region in the canine model of effort angina. 4. To determine the flow profile for hydroxyfasudil in dogs, blood flow in three vascular beds was measured. Hydroxyfasudil (0.3 mg kg(-1) for 30 min) significantly increased coronary blood flow and vertebral blood flow, without significantly changing the femoral blood flow. 5. Hydroxyfasudil had no inotropic or chronotropic effect on the isolated hearts of guinea-pigs. Hydroxyfasudil (2 mg kg(-1) for 20 min) did not affect the PR or QTc interval in anaesthetized dogs. 6. Inhibition of Rho-kinase appears to protect myocardium subjected to pacing-induced ischaemia through the increase in the regional myocardial blood flow. Hydroxyfasudil may be categorized as a novel type of anti-anginal drug, without any inotropic or chronotropic effects.

Dexamethasone impairs pulmonary defence against Pseudomonas aeruginosa through suppressing iNOS gene expression and peroxynitrite production in mice

To elucidate the in vivo mechanisms involved in the impairment in pulmonary defence as the result of treatment with glucocorticoids, we established fatal pneumonia with bacteraemia in dexamethasone (DEX)-treated mice by means of an intratracheal challenge of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. An increased neutrophil influx was observed in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluids from both untreated and DEX-treated mice. The complete suppression of an inducible isoform of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) mRNA expression and tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) production during the early phase of pneumonia, but not CXC chemokine production, were found in the case of the DEX-treated mice. An immunohistochemical study with a specific antibody also revealed negative staining for nitrotyrosine in the lung tissue of DEX-treated mice, while the formation of nitrotyrosine, which indirectly indicates the generation of peroxynitrite with a potent bactericidal activity, was detected clearly in the bronchial epithelium as well as alveolar phagocytic cells of lung tissue from untreated mice. Furthermore, an intraperitoneal administration of S-methyl-isothiourea (SMT), a potent inhibitor of NOS, significantly decreased the survival and increased bacterial density in the case of untreated mice. In contrast, no significant effects on the survival and bacterial density in the lung and blood were found as the result of treatment with SMT in DEX-treated mice. Collectively, a complete repression of iNOS gene expression and a lack of the generation of peroxynitrite as well as an inhibition of TNF-alpha production in the lung appeared to be responsible for the progression of the fatal pneumonia due to P. aeruginosa in DEX-treated mice.

A comparative study of the fluoroquinolone antibacterial agents on the action potential duration in guinea pig ventricular myocardia

We examined the effects of ten fluoroquinolone antibacterial agents, levofloxacin, sitafloxacin, trovafloxacin, ciprofloxacin, gemifloxacin, tosufloxacin, gatifloxacin, grepafloxacin, moxifloxacin and sparfloxacin, on action potentials recorded from guinea pig ventricular myocardia. Sparfloxacin prolonged action potential duration (APD) by about 8% at 10 microM and 41% at 100 microM. Gatifloxacin, grepafloxacin and moxifloxacin also prolonged APD at 100 microM by about 13%, 24% and 25%, respectively. In contrast, levofloxacin, sitafloxacin, trovafloxacin, ciprofloxacin, gemifloxacin and tosufloxacin had little or no APD-prolonging effect at concentrations as high as 100 microM. These findings suggest that there are differences in potency to prolong QT interval among the fluoroquinolones.

In utero evaluation and the long-term prognosis of living infants with cystic hygroma

OBJECTIVE

The aim is to evaluate the natural course and the long-term prognosis of cystic hygroma following live birth.

METHODS

Of 39 cases, 12 were excluded because of either artificial termination or intrauterine treatment. 27 cases were retrospectively classified into 2 groups based on the outcome, and the clinical profiles were compared. The long-term prognosis was analyzed for live births.

RESULTS

5 (18.5%) and 22 (81.5%) cases resulted in live birth and fetal demise, respectively. Both the frequency of hydrops fetalis and the maximum size of the cyst were more significantly associated with a poor prognosis (p < 0.01). Of 5 live births, 3 cases with chromosomal or structural abnormalities were handicapped.

CONCLUSIONS

Hydrops fetalis and cyst size are poor prognostic factors, and fetal chromosome and structural malformations should be taken into account when predicting the long-term prognosis.

A new volumetric evaluation of partial splenic embolization for hypersplenism in biliary atresia

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Partial splenic embolization (PSE) has become an important therapeutic modality in the management of hypersplenism in biliary atresia (BA). Fifty percent to 80% of spleen is usually devascularized by embolization. The functional outcome, however, has not been correlated with embolized volume of the spleen. The authors propose a new, reliable method of predicting functional outcome using nonembolized volume of the spleen (NEVS) as an index.

METHODS

Between January 1993 and July 2000, 11 children with BA (2 boys and 9 girls, aged 5 to 10 years) underwent 12 PSE procedures. The follow-up period ranged from 6 to 77 months. The NEVS was calculated by enhanced computed tomography (CT) images, and an index was calculated by dividing NEVS with the predicted splenic volume for body weight (standardized NEVS ratio) 2 weeks after PSE.

RESULTS

Splenic volumes before PSE ranged from 312 to 1,201 cm(3) (mean, 875.8 cm(3)). NEVS ranged from 140 to 485 cm(3) (mean, 340 cm(3)). Standardized NEVS ratio ranged from 2.21 to 7.22 (mean, 4.25). The platelet counts with standardized NEVS ratio below 5.0 (group I) and above 5.0 (group II) were 15.1 x 10(4)/mm(3) and 7.2 x 10(4)/mm(3) at 6-month follow-up, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

(1) Nonembolized volumetric evaluation is useful in predicting the functional outcome of PSE. (2) Reembolization is indicated for the patients with standardized NEVS above 5.0.

Role of endogenous PACAP in catecholamine secretion from the rat adrenal gland

We elucidated the contribution of endogenous pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) to neurally evoked catecholamine secretion from the isolated perfused rat adrenal gland. Infusion of PACAP (100 nM) increased adrenal epinephrine and norepinephrine output. The PACAP-induced catecholamine output responses were inhibited by the PACAP type I receptor antagonist PACAP- (6-38) (30-3,000 nM) but were resistant to the PACAP type II receptor antagonist [Lys1,Pro2,5,Ara3,4,Tyr6]-vasoactive intestinal peptide (LPAT-VIP; 30-3,000 nM). Transmural electrical stimulation (ES; 1-10 Hz) or infusion of ACh (6-200 nM) increased adrenal epinephrine and norepinephrine output. PACAP-(6-38) (3,000 nM), but not LPAT-VIP, also inhibited the ES-induced catecholamine output responses. However, PACAP-(6-38) did not affect the ACh-induced catecholamine output responses. PACAP at low concentrations (0.3-3 nM), which had no influence on catecholamine output, enhanced the ACh-induced catecholamine output responses, but not the ES-induced catecholamine output responses. These results suggest that PACAP is released from the nerve endings to facilitate the neurally evoked catecholamine secretion through PACAP type I receptors in the rat adrenal gland.

Intracellular mechanisms of cGMP-mediated regulation of myocardial contraction

The intracellular mechanisms of cGMP, a major intracellular mediator of nitric oxide that regulates the contractility of cardiac muscle, are still to some extent unknown. To investigate these mechanisms, we observed the effects of 8-bromo-cyclic GMP (8br-cGMP) on myofibrillar Ca2+ sensitivity and Ca2+ handling of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) using beta-escin-skinned preparations from Wistar rat hearts. Both low (1 microM) and high doses (100 microM) of 8br-cGMP significantly decreased the myofibrillar Ca2+ sensitivity obtained from pCa-tension relationships to a similar extent (pCa50; from 6.04 to 5.95 by 1 microM 8br-cGMP and 6.00 to 5.89 by 100 microM 8br-cGMP, respectively, n = 9 each). Whereas this Ca2+ desensitization induced by 100 microM 8br-cGMP was blocked by 1 microM KT5823, a specific inhibitor of cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG), not induced by 1 microM 8br-cGMP was not effected by KT5823. When the amount of Ca2+ released from the SR was estimated by the peak amplitude of 25 mM caffeine-induced contractions after constant Ca2+-loading by pCa 6, both doses of 8br-cGMP significantly augmented the caffeine-induced peak force to a similar extent (125 +/- 5.8% by 1 microM 8br-cGMP and 116 +/- 5.1% by 100 microM 8br-cGMP, respectively, n = 6 each). The two observed effects of cGMP (a decrease in myofibrillar Ca2+ sensitivity and an increase in Ca2+ uptake by the SR) may participate in regulating myocardial contraction via nitric oxide. Low and high doses of cGMP seem to work mainly via PKG-independent and PKG-dependent pathways, respectively.

Mental health of scientific researchers. I. Characteristics of job stress among scientific researchers working at a research park in Japan

In order to clarify the characteristics of job stress in scientific researchers, a self-administered questionnaire survey for 16,330 workers was carried out at Tsukuba Research Park City, Japan. The data of 7,063 (43%) workers aged 20-59 years old were analyzed, and the characteristics of job stress in 3,290 scientific researchers were compared with those of 1,799 technicians and 1,849 clerks. The researchers perceived higher quantitative and qualitative workload, greater job control (job decision latitude), and greater reward from work, than did the other two job groups. In addition, young male researchers received a large amount of support from their coworkers, while middle-aged male researchers perceived difficulty in personal relationships with their coworkers. From the viewpoints of the demand-control-support model and the effort-reward imbalance model, the researchers, particularly men, were typically occupied in active jobs, and the large amount of effort required for their work seemed to be balanced by greater reward from work. Compared with male researchers, however, female researchers perceived lesser job demand, lesser job control, and lesser reward from work. The working environment of female researchers may be related to the so-called career stress of working women. The mental health status of these scientific researchers should be examined directly in a future study.

mDia-interacting protein acts downstream of Rho-mDia and modifies Src activation and stress fiber formation

The formin homology protein mDia is a Rho GTPase effector protein that participates in stress fiber formation, cytokinesis, and transcriptional activation of the serum response factor. Although the function of another effector of Rho, Rho-associated kinase, is well established, relatively little is known about the functional mechanism and the downstream targets of mDia. Our recent report of a Rho-mDia-Src-tyrosine kinase pathway suggested an important role for mDia in cell adhesion turnover. We identified a new mDia-interacting protein which is expressed ubiquitously. The new protein mainly binds to the proline-rich region of mDia through its Src homology 3 domain and also binds to Grb2 through its proline-rich domain. The protein is localized at the cell periphery and membrane ruffles and co-localizes with mDia. Co-expression of vSrc and the mDia-interacting protein induces significant morphological changes at focal contacts and activation of vSrc. Furthermore, we found that the mDia-interacting protein plays an important role in stress fiber formation induced by active mDia1. Our results suggest that this new protein regulates actin polymerization and cell adhesion turnover in the downstream portion of the Rho-mDia pathway by interacting with Grb2 and Src.

MRNA and enzyme activity of hepatic 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 are elevated in C57BL/KsJ-db/db mice

To evaluate the importance of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11beta-HSD1) in insulin resistant diabetic C57BL/KsJ-db/db mice, we measured the activity and mRNA level of 11beta-HSD1 in the liver of db/db mice and their heterozygote litter mates, db/+m mice. The blood glucose, plasma insulin, and corticosterone levels of db/db mice were significantly higher than those of db/+m mice. Despite hyperinsulinemia, the activity level of this enzyme was significantly higher in db/db mice, and the mRNA level of hepatic 11beta-HSD1 was also significantly higher in db/db mice. Since hepatic 11beta-HSD1 in vivo mainly functions as 11-keto-reductase and does not work as 11beta-oxidase, these results suggest that the rate of hepatic conversion of 11-dehydrocorticosterone to corticosterone is increased in db/db mice, resulting in higher glucocorticoid activity in the liver. The increased hepatic corticosterone concentration due to the elevation of 11beta-HSD1 and high plasma corticosterone concentration may antagonize the action of insulin and cause insulin resistance. These findings have a potentially important implication for relationships between increased hepatic 11beta-HSD1 and insulin resistance in db/db mice. The present paper is the first to demonstrate the increased activities and mRNA level of hepatic 11beta-HSD1 in db/db mice.

The characterization of superoxide production of human neonatal neutrophil

To assess the role of neutrophil in neonatal host defense against microbial infection, we characterized the superoxide anion (O(2-)) production of neonatal neutrophil on a biochemical basis. After taking an appropriate informed consent, neutrophils were obtained from cord blood immediately after transvaginal delivery and divided into two groups: the Preterm group, 15 neonates (27-36 weeks' gestation) and the Term group, 15 neonates (37-41 weeks' gestation). Eleven healthy adults served as controls in the Adult group. The value of N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanin (fMLP)-induced O(2-) production activity of neutrophils in the Preterm group using chemiluminescence assay was significantly lower than those values in both the Term and Adult groups (5.77+/-0.53x10(6) vs. 11.1+/-0.94x10(6) and 10.7+/-0.63x10(6) cpm; mean+/-S.E.M., p<0.05). In phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-stimulation, the values of O(2-) production activity of neutrophils in both the Preterm and Term groups were significantly lower than that in the Adult group (13.0+/-1.66x10(6) and 18.0+/-1.44x10(6) vs. 27.3+/-1.45x10(6) cpm, p<0.05). Scatchard analysis of [(3)H]fMLP binding to neutrophil demonstrated a two-receptor model in each group, and the number of high-affinity receptors per neutrophil in the Preterm group was significantly lower than those in other groups (p<0.05). However, cord blood levels of proinflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-6, -8, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) did not differ in either neonatal group. These results indicated that the fMLP-induced O(2-)production activity of neutrophils in the term neonates was enhanced at the level of the receptor and suggested that this enhanced production contribute to the neonatal host defense against microbial infection.

Mutational analysis of BRCA1 and BRCA2 and clinicopathologic analysis of ovarian cancer in 82 ovarian cancer families: two common founder mutations of BRCA1 in Japanese population

We analyzed genetic alterations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes among 82 ovarian cancer families in Japan. The clinical characteristics of BRCA-associated ovarian cancer patients were compared with cases carrying no mutations as well as with population controls. Using a direct sequencing method, 45 of the 82 ovarian cancer families were found to carry BRCA1 or BRCA2 germ-line mutations (40 with BRCA1 and 5 with BRCA2). In 24 independent mutations of BRCA1, 5 recurrent mutations were found and 2 of them, the L63X and Q934X mutations, were detected in seven and eight independent families, respectively. In addition, 16 mutations of BRCA1 and 3 mutations of BRCA2 have never been described previously. In consideration of clinicopathological features, there was a significantly higher proportion of tumors with serous adenocarcinoma and of cases of advanced stages in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 cases than in those of the controls. On the other hand, there were no differences of mean age at diagnosis between patients with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation and those of the controls. Our results indicate that the features of BRCA-associated ovarian cancer in Japan appear to be similar to those in Western countries, and the L63X and Q934X mutations of BRCA1 appear to be common founder mutations unique to the Japanese population.

Circumvention of acquired resistance to doxorubicin in K562 human leukemia cells by oxatomide

We studied the effect of oxatomide, an antiallergic drug, on the resistance of K562 cells to doxorubicin. Oxatomide synergistically potentiated the cytotoxicity of doxorubicin in doxorubicin-resistant K562 cells (K562/DXR) at a concentration of 1-10 microM, but had hardly any synergistic effect on the parental cell line (K562) at the same concentration. Oxatomide inhibit P-glycoprotein pump-efflux activity and the binding of [3H]-azidopine to the cell-surface protein P-glycoprotein, in a dose-related manner. These results indicate that oxatomide reverses the multidrug-resistance phenotype through direct interaction with P-glycoprotein.

Absence of arabinan in the side chains of the pectic polysaccharides strongly associated with cell walls of Nicotiana plumbaginifolia non-organogenic callus with loosely attached constituent cells

When leaf disks from haploid plants of Nicotiana plumbaginifolia Viv. were transformed with T-DNA and cultured on shoot-inducing medium, nonorganogenic callus. designated nolac (for non-organogenic callus with loosely attached cells), appeared on approximately 7% of leaf disks. In contrast, normal callus was generated on T-DNA-transformed leaf disks from diploid plants and on non-transformed leaf disks from haploid and diploid plants. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the middle lamellae and the cell walls of one line of mutant callus (nolac-H14) were barely stained by ruthenium red. even after demethylesterification with NaOH, whereas the entire cell wall and the middle lamella were strongly stained in normal callus. In cultures of nolac-H14 callus, the level of sugar components of pectic polysaccharides in the hemicellulose fraction was reduced and that in the culture medium was elevated, as compared with cultures of normal callus. These results indicate that pectic polysaccharides are not retained in the cell walls and middle lamellae of nolac-H14 callus. In nolac-H14, the ratio of arabinose to galactose was low in the pectic polysaccharides purified from all cell wall fractions and from the medium, in particular, in the hemicellulose fractions. The low levels of arabinofuranosyl (T-Araf, 5-Araf, 2,5-Araf, and 3,5-Araf) residues in the pectic polysaccharides of the hemicellulosic fraction of nolac-H,14 indicated that no neutral-sugar side chains, composed mainly of linear arabinan. were present in nolac-H14. Arabinose-rich pectins. which are strongly associated with cellulose-hemicellulose complexes, might play an important role in intercellular attachment in the architecture of the cell wall.

Quantitative analysis of gene expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor-related factors and their receptors in renal cell carcinoma

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-related factors are believed to regulate angiogenesis, an essential event in the growth of solid tumors. In this study, we investigated the expression of VEGF-related factor genes (VEGF, VEGF-B, and VEGF-C) and their receptor genes (VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2) in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). There were significant differences in the expression level of VEGF, VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2 between RCC and the corresponding normal renal tissue. The expression level of VEGF in the tumor tissue significantly correlated with those of VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2. Expression levels VEGF-B and VEGF-C genes were not significantly different between RCC and normal renal tissue. A moderate to high protein expression for VEGF, VEGFR-1, and VEGFR-2 was observed in both the tumor cells and the endothelial cells, whereas the protein expression was low for VEGF-B and VEGF-C. The present results suggested that VEGF and its receptors VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2 cooperates to play a crucial role in the angiogenesis of RCC, while VEGF-B and VEGFR-C may not. Furthermore, since VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2 proteins were expressed in the tumor cells as well as in the endothelial cells, these receptors may also be responsible for the progression of RCC.