Effects of fetal calf serum, amino acids, vitamins and insulin on blastocoel formation and hatching of in vivo and IVM/IVF-derived porcine embryos developing in vitro

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of fetal calf serum (FCS), non-essential MEM amino acids, MEM vitamins and insulin on blastocoel formation, expansion and hatching in porcine embryos developing in vitro. Addition of 20% FCS to the NCSU 23 medium significantly (P < 0.05) decreased by the compaction and blastocoel formation of 1- to 2-cell embryos developing in vitro. In contrast, more 1- to 2-cell embryos commenced hatching in the media containing amino acids than in control medium (25.7 vs 2.6%, P < 0.01). Amino acids and insulin synergistically enhanced the incidence of blastocoel formation and hatching of porcine embryos developing in vitro (P < 0.05). When early compacted embryos which developed in vitro in NCSU 23 medium were cultured in BSA-free NCSU 23 medium supplemented with 20% FCS, the incidence of hatching was significantly increased compared with that of the control groups (35.7 vs 4.1%, P < 0.01). However, addition of amino acids, vitamins or insulin to the NCSU 23 medium did not enhance the development of early morulae to the hatched embryos (P > 0.1). When either in vivo or IVM/IVF-derived 1- to 2-cell stage embryos were cultured 4 d in the modified NCSU 23 and an additional 4 days in the modified NCSU 23 supplemented in the FCS, the percentages (61.8 and 17.8%, in vivo- and IVM/TVF-derived, respectively) of hatched blastocysts were significantly higher (P < 0.01) than in the control groups (2.9 and 0%, in vivo and IVM/IVF-derived, respectively). These results suggested that dual culture conditions are required to optimize an in vitro culture system for the development of the porcine embryo in vitro.

The distribution and requirements of microtubules and microfilaments during fertilization and parthenogenesis in pig oocytes

Microtubules and microfilaments are major cytoskeletal elements in mammalian ova and are important modulators of many fertilization and post-fertilization events. In this study, the integrated distribution of microtubules and microfilaments in pig oocytes were examined under a laser scanning confocal microscope, and the requirements of their assembly during in vitro fertilization and parthenogenesis in in vitro matured pig oocytes were determined. After sperm penetration, an aster of microtubules was produced in the spermatozoon, and this microtubule aster filled the whole cytoplasm during pronuclear movement. During pronuclear formation after activation by insemination, microfilaments became concentrated at the male and female pronuclei and, after electrical stimulation, at the female pronucleus. At metaphase of cleavage, microtubules were detected in the spindle and microfilaments were found mainly in the cortex. At anaphase, microtubule asters assembled at each spindle pole. During cleavage, large asters filled each daughter blastomere and a microfilament-rich cleavage furrow was observed. Cytochalasin B, a microfilament inhibitor, inhibited microfilament polymerization but affected neither pronuclear formation nor movement. However, syngamy and cell division were inhibited in eggs treated with cytochalasin B. Treatment with nocodazole after sperm penetration inhibited microtubule assembly and prevented migration leading to pronuclear union and cell division. These results indicate that microtubule and microfilament assembly in pig oocytes are integrated during fertilization and are required for the union of sperm and egg nuclei and for subsequent cell division.

Design of a medical image processing software for clinical-PACS

Software modules for interactive display, manipulation and retrieval of medical images have been designed for a Picture Archiving and Communications System (PACS). The target of these modules is not for a high-end diagnostic workstation for radiologists, but for a PC-based low cost clinical workstation for a referring physician. This software is constructed based on a concept of an object-oriented language which is designed to be modular and expandable. It consists of several functional modules: (a) a communication module for image retrieval, (b) a standard module for the interpretation of the DICOM images, (c) a user interface module for the non-computer oriented clinicians and (d) a tool module for viewing and manipulating images as well as editing the annotation.

Comparison of in vitro development and gene expression of in vivo- and IVM/IVF-derived porcine embryos after microinjection of foreign DNA

We compared the developmental ability and gene expression of in vivo- and IVM/IVF-derived porcine embryos following microinjection with SV40-LacZ. A total of 412 IVM/IVF-derived and 129 in vivo-collected zygotes was used to examine developmental ability and gene expression following DNA microinjection. When either DNA injected or noninjected zygotes were cultured for 4 d in NCSU 23 followed by 5 d in Eagle's minimal essential medium (EMEM), the percentages of zygotes developing to blastocysts and hatched blastocysts were higher (P < 0.05) compared with groups cultured in NCSU 23 alone. The percentages of injected embryos reaching the morula and blastocyst stages were significantly lower (P < 0.05) than that of noninjected control embryos whether in vivo or IVM/IVF derived. The percentages of morula and blastocyst stage embryos expressing the gene were higher in the in vivo-derived embryos than in IVM/IVF-derived embryos. A lower proportion of (67 to 77%) mosaicism was observed in the in vivo-derived embryos than in IVM/IVF (90 to 100%) derived embryos. The total cell number of blastocysts cultured in both NCSU 23 and EMEM media was significantly higher than that of blastocysts cultured continuously in NCSU 23. Our results suggest that this dual culture system enhanced embryo viability following microinjection of foreign DNA.

Chlortetracycline fluorescence patterns and in vitro fertilisation of frozen-thawed boar spermatozoa incubated under various bicarbonate concentrations

Porcine oocyte-cumulus complexes were cultured in bovine serum albumin (BSA)-free North Carolina State University (NCSU) 23 medium containing porcine follicular fluid (10%), cysteine (0.1 mg/ml) and hormonal supplements (eCG and hCG: 10 IU/ml each) for 22h. They were then cultured in the same medium but without hormonal supplements for an additional 22 h. After culture, cumulus cells were removed and oocytes were co-incubated with frozen-thawed ejaculated boar spermatozoa in tissue culture medium (TCM) 199 containing caffeine (5 mM), fetal calf serum (FCS; 10%) and varying concentrations (26-56 mM) of NaHCO3 for 9 h (experiment 1). In experiment 2, chlortetracycline (CTC) was used to assess the functional state of spermatozoa incubated under different NaHCO3 concentrations. Experiment 3 examined the effect of FCS (1% and 10%) and NaHCO3 (26 and 46 mM) on fertilisation parameters. Compared with 26 mM, penetration rate was significantly higher (p < 0.05) at 36-56 mM NaHCO3. Polyspermy showed a similar pattern although no difference was observed between 26 and 36 mM. At 46 mM NaHCO3, the mean number of spermatozoa (MNS) penetrated per oocyte increased significantly (p < 0.05). A significantly higher proportion of spermatozoa were capacitated and acrosome reacted at 46 and 56 mM NaHCO3, respectively. The fertilisation medium containing 46 mM NaHCO3 and 1% FCS showed a higher penetration rate (84%) with a relatively low incidence of polyspermy (39%). The results indicate that NaHCO3 stimulates capacitation and/or the acrosome reaction of boar spermatozoa in a dose-dependent manner and thus affects fertilisation parameters.

Contrast enhancement pattern and frequency of previously unoperated lumbar discs on MRI

Enhancement frequency and patterns (linear intradiscal, nodular intradiscal, and peridiscal) of the 210 previously unoperated lumbar discs were evaluated using contrast-enhanced lumbar MRI. They also were compared with morphologic abnormalities (normal, bulging, protruded, and extruded) and signal alteration (high signal on T2-weighted images) of the disc. Image interpretation was decided by the consensus of two musculoskeletal radiologists. Enhancement was observed in 69 (32.6%) discs. The enhancement patterns were either intradiscal, linear of (79.7%) or nodular (10.2%), peridiscal (7.2%), or combined (2.9%). Thirty-five (77.8%) of the 45 herniated discs, 35 (77.8%) were enhanced, whereas 34 (20.6%) of 165 normal-appearing disc were enhanced. Enhancement was observed more frequently in discs with high signal intensity zones (P < 0.05). In the six patients with enhanced discs, surgery revealed granulation tissue in three extruded discs, two protruded discs, and one bulging disc. The authors believe that contrast enhancements are frequent in herniated discs and are not infrequent in normal-appearing discs. The understanding of various enhancement patterns may help in the interpretation of lumbar spine MRI.

Antisense to cyclin D1 inhibits the growth and tumorigenicity of human colon cancer cells

Cyclin D1 plays an important role in regulating the progression of cells through the G1 phase of the cell cycle. This gene is frequently overexpressed in human colon cancer. To address the role of cyclin D1 in growth control and tumorigenesis in this disease, we have overexpressed an antisense cyclin D1 cDNA construct in the human colon cancer cell line SW480E8, which expresses high levels of cyclin D1. The integration and expression of the antisense construct was verified by Southern and Northern blot analyses, respectively, and resulted in decreased expression of the cyclin D1 protein. This was associated with decreased levels of the Rb and p27Kip1 proteins. In addition, the hypophosphorylated form of Rb was increased in these cells. The SW480E8 antisense cyclin D1 cells displayed an increased doubling time, a decrease in saturation density, decreased plating efficiency and anchorage-independent growth, and a loss of tumorigenicity in nude mice. These findings provide direct evidence that increased expression of cyclin D1 in colon tumor cells contributes to their abnormal growth and tumorigenicity. The ability to revert the transformed phenotype of these cells with antisense cyclin D1 suggests that cyclin D1 or its associated cyclin-dependent kinase 4 may be useful targets in the therapy of colon cancer.

Effects of altered body fluid balance and high blood pressure on the plasma brain natriuretic peptide in rats

The present study was aimed to investigate the regulatory mechanisms of BNP release. Effects of acute and chronic perturbations in body fluid balance, changes in BP, and regulatory roles of NO and endothelin systems on BNP release were examined in rats. Although acute extracellular volume expansion did not have significant effects on plasma BNP, prolonged high-salt intake increased plasma BNP levels. Plasma BNP levels were also higher in 2K1C rats compared with the control. Although infusion of L-NAME increased the plasma BNP in control, it did not further affect the plasma BNP in rats with high-salt intake. Although L-arginine (20 mg.kg-1 per min) per se did not have significant effects on plasma BNP, it blocked the stimulatory effect of L-NAME (200 micrograms.kg-1 per min). Plasma BNP was severalfold increased following a single injection of endothelin (0.3 micrograms/kg) in normal and high-salt intake groups, the magnitude of which was not significantly affected by the high-salt intake. Although indomethacin did not have significant effects on plasma BNP in normal rats, it blocked the stimulatory effect of 2K1C hypertension. It is concluded that BNP is regulated by chronic changes in body fluid balance and blood pressure. It is also suggested that endothelin and NO systems may directly regulate the secretion of BNP in vivo. An endogenous prostaglandin synthesis may be involved in the stimulated release of BNP in hypertension.

Effects of oviductal fluid and heparin on fertility and characteristics of porcine spermatozoa

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of oviductal fluid and heparin on sperm penetration and the characteristics of spermatozoa. The addition of oviductal fluid and heparin to the fertilisation medium decreased sperm penetration and the mean number of spermatozoa in penetrated eggs. The number of spermatozoa firmly bound to zona pellucida was also decreased in the presence of oviductal fluid and heparin. Chlortetracycline (CTC) fluorescence patterns were used to determine the incidence of capacitation and the acrosome reaction. The proportion of capacitated and acrosome-free spermatozoa increased when spermatozoa were exposed for 1.5 and 3 h to oviductal fluid and heparin. In contrast heparin alone did not increase the number of capacitated spermatozoa at these time points. These results suggest that factor(s) in oviductal secretions reduce polyspermic fertilisation and the number of spermatozoa that will penetrate porcine oocytes. The reduction of polyspermic penetration by oviductal secretions may be due to a reduced number of spermatozoa in the fertilisation medium with an intact acrosome.

A case of carpal tunnel syndrome due to dialysis-related amyloidosis in a patient undergoing long-term hemodialysis

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is characterized by burning pain, numbness and tingling sensation in the thumb, index and middle fingers and the lateral half of the palm and progressive atrophy of the thenar muscles by compression of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel due to a variety of etiologic factors. Surgical intervention usually successfully relieves symptoms of CTS. Recently CTS has been regarded as one of the major clinical manifestations of dialysis-related amyloidosis due to beta 2-microglobulin deposition and recognized with increasing frequency in patients undergoing long-term hemodialysis. We report a case of carpal tunnel syndrome due to dialysis-related amyloidosis in patients undergoing long-term hemodialysis, confirmed by electromyography and biopsy in transverse carpal ligament and median nerve.

Attenuated central pressor response to nitric oxide synthesis inhibition in chronic renal failure rats

OBJECTIVES

Central and peripheral roles of nitric oxide (NO) in blood pressure regulation have been suggested. The present study was aimed at examining if the role of NO in blood pressure regulation is altered in chronic renal failure.

METHODS

Blood pressure responses to acute inhibition of NO were examined in 5/6 nephrectomized rats. Three weeks after the renal ablation, under thiopental (50 mg/kg, i.p.) anesthesia, an intracerebroventricular cannula was placed in the left lateral ventricle and the femoral vein was cannulated to serve as an infusion route. The arterial blood pressure was measured in the right femoral artery. NG-nito-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) was infused (100 microgram/kg per min for 60 min either intracerebroventricularly or intravenously.

RESULTS

Chronic renal failure rats showed a significantly higher arterial pressure than the control rats (147 +/- 14 mmHg vs. 122 +/- 13 mmHg). Intracerebroventricular L-NAME did not affect the arterial pressure in chronic renal failure rats (0.5 +/- 4 mmHg increase from the basal), while it significantly increased the arterial pressure in normal rats (22 +/- 3 mmHg increases from the basal). Intravenous L-NAME increased the arterial pressure, the magnitude of which did not differ between the normal and chronic renal failure rats (24 +/- 3 vs. 16 +/- 3 mmHg increases from the basal).

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that the central role of NO in the regulation of blood pressure is altered in chronic renal failure.

Tuberous sclerosis and polycystic kidney disease. A case report

Polycystic kidney disease is a relatively uncommon finding of tuberous sclerosis. Furthermore, the renal insufficiency by the severe polycystic kidney disease is extremely rare in tuberous sclerosis. The patient was a 27-year-old man, complaining of generalized seizure and progressive abdominal distension. His clinical features were chracterized by epilepsy, mental retardation, skin abnormalities including adenoma sebaceum, shagreen patch and ash-leaf spots. Abdominal computed tomography demonstrated numerous variable sized cysts throughout both kidneys. Clinical and laboratory findings revealed chronic renal failure due to severe polycystic kidneys. On reviewing the literature, the present case is the first report of polycystic kidneys associated with tuberous sclerosis in Korea.

4 x 4 vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) and metal-semiconductor-metal (MSM) optical backplane demonstrator system

We describe a system demonstrator based on vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers, metal-semiconductor-metal detectors, printed circuit board (PCB) level optoelectronic device packaging, a compact bulk optical relay, and novel barrel/PCB optomechanics. The entire system was constructed in a standard VME electrical backplane chassis and was capable of operating at >1.7 Gbit/s of aggregate data capacity. In addition to the component technologies developed, we describe operational testing and characterization of the demonstrator.

The Cellulose System in the Cell Wall of Micrasterias

The cellulose system of the cell wall of Micrasterias denticulata and Micrasterias rotata was analyzed by diffraction contrast transmission electron microscopy, electron diffraction, and X-ray analysis. The studies, achieved on disencrusted cell ghosts, confirmed that the cellulose microfibrils occurred in crisscrossed bands consisting of a number of parallel ribbon-like microfibrils. The individual microfibrils had thicknesses of 5 nm for a width of around 20 nm, but in some instances, two or three microfibrils merged into one another to yield larger monocrystalline domains reaching up to 60 nm in lateral size. The orientation of the cellulose of Micrasterias is very unusual, as it was found that in the cell wall, the equatorial crystallographic planes of cellulose having a d-spacing of 0.60 nm [(11;0) in the Ibeta cellulose unit cell defined by Sugiyama et al., 1991, Macromolecules 24, 4168-4175] were oriented perpendicular to the cell wall surface. Up to now, such orientation has been found only in Spirogyra, another member of the Zygnemataceae group. The unusual structure of the secondary wall cellulose of Micrasterias may be tentatively correlated with the unique organization of the terminal complexes, which in this alga occur as hexagonal arrays of rosettes.

A study of motor and sensory evoked potentials in chronic cauda equina compression of the dog

Previous experimental studies have shown the effects of acute compression of the spinal cord and peripheral nerve roots. Recently, however, a few studies of chronic compression of the cauda equina in animal models have been reported. The purpose of this study was to determine the long-term electrophysiologic changes resulting from chronic compression of the cauda equina in dogs. An animal model of lumbar spinal stenosis was prepared according to Delamarter's method. Four experimental groups, each containing six dogs, were studied. One group underwent only laminectomy of the sixth and seventh lumbar vertebrae; these animals served as controls. In the three other groups, a laminectomy was performed and the cauda equina was constricted by 25%, 50%, and 75%, respectively, to produce chronic compression. Weekly neurologic examinations were carried out, and the neurologic deficits were graded using a modified Tarlov system. Sensory, and motor evoked potentials were recorded preoperatively, immediately after constriction, and at 2 weeks and 1, 2, and 3 months postoperatively. The animals in the control group showed no changes in sensory or motor evoked potentials. The dogs in which the cauda equina had been constricted by 25% showed no neurologic deficits and only mild changes in sensory and motor evoked potentials. The dogs in which the cauda equina had been constricted by 50% showed mild initial motor weakness, and major changes in the evoked potentials. The dogs in which the cauda equina had been constricted by 75% showed significant weakness, paralysis of the tail, and urinary incontinence; all dogs were partially recovered by the 3rd month, but all still showed neurogenic changes in the evoked potentials. Sensory and motor evoked potentials revealed neurologic abnormalities before the appearance of neurologic signs and symptoms. Constriction of more than 50% was the critical point that resulted in complete loss or reduction of the evoked potentials and in neurologic deficits. Dogs in which motor and sensory evoked potentials recovered also showed gradual disappearance of neurologic symptoms and signs. Recovery of motor evoked potentials in particular was associated with complete disappearance of neurologic symptoms and signs. For accurate prognosis in cases of chronic cauda equina compression, a combined diagnostic study of sensory and motor evoked potentials is recommended.

Atretic encephalocele/myelocele--case reports with emphasis on pathogenesis

Atretic encephaloceles or myelomeningoceles are frequently solid due to hamartomatous proliferation of fibrous tissue and blood vessels. Because of the fibrous nature of the tumor with no cystic cavity and unusual location with no connection to CNS, they are frequently regarded as insignificant hamartomas. Apart from this terminology, they are also described as cutaneous meningiomas or hamartomas with ectopic meningothelial elements by the presence of meningothelial cells. We report a case of atretic encephalocele in the parietal scalp of an 8 year-old boy and a case of myelomeningocele in the posterior mediastinum of a 31 year-old woman. The terms atretic encephalocele and myelomeningocele are more appropriate for these cases because they include their pathogenesis and the non-neoplastic nature of the lesion.

Microtubule organization in porcine oocytes during fertilization and parthenogenesis

Microtubule configurations in porcine oocytes after sperm penetration or after artificial activation by electrical stimulation were imaged by immunocytochemistry and laser scanning confocal microscopy. Soon after sperm penetration, an aster was seen adjacent to the incorporated sperm head. Polyspermic penetrations led to the presence of multiple sperm asters in association with each sperm. The sperm aster enlarged and, at the time of pronuclear apposition, filled the cytoplasm. After male and female gamete union, the microtubule matrix was reduced. At the mitotic metaphase stage, microtubules were detected in the spindle, which was anastral and fusiform. At anaphase, asters assembled at each spindle pole, and at telophase, large asters filled the cytoplasm. Artificial activation by electrical stimulation induced in the cytoplasm a dense network of microtubules, which seem to be involved in proper positioning of the female pronucleus. At mitotic metaphase, microtubules were concentrated around the chromatin. The results of experiments using taxol, a microtubule stabilizing agent, suggest that maternal centrosomal material is present in the mature porcine oocyte as dispersed undetectable material that can form a microtubule network after parthenogenetic activation. However, at fertilization, the paternal centrosome collects centrosomal material to form a sperm aster. These results suggest that the functional centrosome that forms during fertilization is a result of the blending of paternal and maternal centrosomal components.

Presence of organic osmolytes in maturation medium enhances cytoplasmic maturation of porcine oocytes

The effects of organic osmolytes on cytoplasmic maturation of porcine oocytes were examined in maturation medium (modified Whitten's medium) containing various NaCl concentrations. The presence of organic osmolytes, such as taurine and sorbitol, at 6 and 12 mM in maturation medium containing 68.49 or 92.40 mM NaCl increased oocyte glutathione content. Microfilament organization in oocytes was disrupted in maturation medium containing the higher level of NaCl (92.40 mM). However, supplementation with 12 mM sorbitol to the medium reduced the severity of the abnormality. Early embryonic development in vitro to the blastocyst stage was 8.3 +/- 0.9% for oocytes matured in modified Whitten's medium (68.49 mM NaCl) supplemented with 12 mM sorbitol, and 7.9 +/- 0.8% in modified NCSU23 medium (containing 108.73 mM NaCl, 7 mM taurine, 5 mM hypotaurine, and 1 mM glutamine), compared to 4.7 +/- 0.6% in modified Whitten's medium (68.49 mM Na Cl), which did not contain organic osmolytes. These results indicate that the presence of organic osmolytes, such as sorbitol and taurine, reduces the detrimental effects of high NaCl concentration in media used for the maturation of porcine oocytes. This effect is reflected by oocyte glutathione content and microfilament organization at the end of maturation and early development following in vitro maturation and in vitro fertilization.

Effects of oviductal fluid on sperm penetration and cortical granule exocytosis during fertilization of pig oocytes in vitro

The effects of oviductal fluid on sperm penetration and cortical granule exocytosis in pigs were examined. Cortical granule exocytosis in oocytes matured in vivo and in vitro was observed by staining with fluorescent-labelled lectin and laser-scanning confocal microscopy. Exocytosis of matured oocytes was classified into three categories after in vitro fertilization: complete cortical granule exocytosis and even distribution of exudate in the entire perivitelline space (type I); complete exocytosis and partial distribution of exudate (type II) and incomplete cortical granule exocytosis (type III). The incidence of oocytes with type I exocytosis was higher in oocytes matured in vivo than in those matured in vitro. The addition of oviductal fluid at a concentration of 1% or 10% to the fertilization medium decreased sperm penetration and the mean number of spermatozoa present in penetrated eggs. The distribution of cortical granule exudate was not different in the presence of 1% oviductal fluid after sperm penetration from that of control groups. When oocytes were cultured for 1.5 h in medium containing 10% or 30% oviductal fluid before insemination, the incidence of monospermy increased without a decrease in sperm penetration. Preculture of oocytes in medium containing 30% oviductal fluid increased type I cortical granule reaction and increased resistance of the zona pellucida to dissolution by 0.1% (w/v) pronase at the time of sperm penetration. These results suggest that a factor(s) from the oviductal secretion is required for the complete cortical granule reaction and in the modification of the zona pellucida.

Microfilament assembly and cortical granule distribution during maturation, parthenogenetic activation and fertilisation in the porcine oocyte

In this study we imaged integral changes in microfilament assembly and cortical granule distribution, and examined effects of microfilament inhibitor on the cortical granule distribution during oocyte maturation, parthenogenetic activation and in vitro fertilisation in the pig. The microfilament assembly and cortical granule distribution were imaged with fluorescent-labelled lectin and rhodamine-labelled phalloidin under laser scanning confocal microscopy. At the germinal vesicle stage, cortical granule organelles were located around the cell cortex and were present as a relatively wide area on the oolemma. Microfilaments were also observed in a wide uniform area around the cell cortex. Following germinal vesicle breakdown, microfilaments concentrated in the condensed chromatin and cortical granules were observed in the cortex. Treatment with cytochalasin B inhibited microfilament polymerisation and prevented movement of cortical granules to the cortex. Cortical granule exudation following sperm penetration was evenly distributed in the entire perivitelline space. These results suggest that the microfilament assembly is involved in the distribution, movement and exocytosis of cortical granules during maturation and fertilisation.

Cytoskeletal alteration in aged porcine oocytes and parthenogenesis

The objective of this study was to examine the changes in microtubule and microfilament assembly in aged porcine oocytes and to determine their developmental pattern after parthenogenetic activation. Porcine oocytes were cultured in Whitten's medium containing 10% follicular fluid with hormonal supplements (eCG and hCG) for 22 hr and 40 hr additional culture without hormonal supplements. At 40, 50, and 60 hr of culture, the oocytes were fixed for immunocytochemistry or activated by electrical pulse. In metaphase II stage oocytes, microtubules were detected only in the meiotic spindle. Two microfilament domains existed in the egg cortex, a thick and a thin microfilament domain. In aged oocytes (50 and 60 hr of culture), the incidence of metaphase II plates observed outside of the thick microfilament domain was higher (P < 0.05) than in young oocytes (40 hr of culture). After activation, a polar body was usually emitted from the chromatin at the microfilament rich domain or two pronuclei were formed outside of the microfilament rich domain. The percentage of activated oocytes with one female pronucleus was higher (P < 0.05) in oocytes at 40 hr of maturation than at 50 and 60 hr of culture. At 24 and 30 hr after stimulation the incidence of cleavage to the 3- to 4-cell stage was higher (P < 0.05) in aged oocytes (50 and 60 hr of maturation) than that in oocytes at 40 hr of culture. These results suggested that a role of microfilaments is to retain the chromatin at the proper position in the oocyte cortex, and that aging results in a disruption of the microfilaments such that atypical development results after parthenogenetic activation.

Microtubule and microfilament dynamics in porcine oocytes during meiotic maturation

Microtubule and microfilament organization in porcine oocytes during maturation in vivo and in vitro was imaged by immunocytochemistry and laser scanning confocal microscopy. At the germinal vesicle stage, microtubules were not detected in the oocyte. After germinal vesicle breakdown, a small microtubule aster was observed near the condensed chromatin. During the prometaphase stage, microtubule asters were found in association with each chromatin mass. The asters then elongated and encompassed the chromatin at the metaphase-I stage. At anaphase-I and telophase-I microtubules were detected in the meiotic spindle. Microtubules were observed only in the second meiotic spindle at the metaphase-II stage. The meiotic spindle was a symmetric, barrel-shaped structure containing anastral broad poles, located peripherally and radially oriented. Taxol, a microtubule-stabilizing agent, did not induce microtubules in oocytes at the germinal vesicle stage. After germinal vesicle breakdown, numerous cytoplasmic foci of microtubules were formed in the entire oocyte when oocytes were incubated in the presence of taxol. Microfilaments were observed as a relatively thick uniform area around the cell cortex and were also found throughout the cytoplasm of oocytes at the germinal vesicle stage. After germinal vesicle breakdown, the microfilaments were concentrated close to the female chromatin. During prometaphase, microfilaments were chromatin moved to the peripheral position. At metaphase-I, two domains, a thick and a thin microfilament area, existed in the egg cortex. Chromosomes were located in the thick microfilament domain of the cortex. In summary, these results suggest that both microtubules and microfilaments are closely involved with chromosomal dynamics after germinal vesicle breakdown and during meiotic maturation in porcine oocytes.

Iatrogenic aorto-coronary venous fistula as a complication of coronary artery bypass surgery: patient report and review of the literature

We report a patient and review the literature of an unusual complication of coronary artery bypass graft surgery, an acquired aorto-coronary venous fistula. This report reviews the clinical presentation, physical findings, and management of this rare finding.

Design of an emergency teleradiology system based on progressive transmission

In clinical surgery, there are frequent needs for communication between the house staff and the attending physician in an emergency situation. To overcome the limitation of voice communication through the telephone line, we have designed an 'emergency teleradiology system' which can be used for emergency surgical and medical decision making. This system can transmit the high quality images of CT, MRI, and other X-ray data using a PC attached to a modem through the conventional telephone line. It is based on the progressive transmission system which enables the successive update of a received image. The iterative residual coding/decoding algorithm efficiently compresses the image to maximally utilize the low bandwidth PSTN channels. This system also satisfies design requirements such as low-cost, ease of operation, fast transmission, and interactive image communication including voice. Test results using several CT, MR, and X-ray images evaluate the compression performance, image quality, transmission time and computational time of the coding and decoding processes, thus demonstrate the usefulness of this system in an emergency situation.

The biomechanical properties of deep freezing and freeze drying bones and their biomechanical changes after in-vivo allograft

This study measured the physical properties in bending of the rat femur and compression of the rat first tail vertebra subjected to deep freezing at -80 degrees C for 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 12 weeks and freeze drying. This study also measured the mechanical changes after in vivo allograft of fresh bone, deep freezing(2, 6, 12 weeks) and freeze drying. Analysis for deep freezing groups showed a mean 7.2% decrease in bending strength and 11.0% decrease in compressive strength when compared with the control group, but there was no statistical difference in the duration of deep freezing. The groups of in vivo graft after deep freezing showed 23.1% and 22.2% decrease in bending and compressive strength. There was no statistical difference in the duration of deep freezing. The freeze drying group showed a 9.7% decrease in bending strength and no significant difference in compressive strength. The group of in vivo graft after freeze drying showed a 30.1% and a 41.3% decrease in bending and compressive strength. The above results suggested that there would be some mechanical limitation in using freeze dried graft for supporting implants.

Use of a 64 channel computerized cardiac mapping system in arrhythmia surgery

A multipoint and computerized intraoperative mapping system has been known to be of value in improving the results of surgery for cardiac arrhythmia. It shows great potential as a new tool in the surgical intervention of the more common and lethal types of supraventricular tachyarrhythmias such as atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation. In addition, it also enhances the ability of the investigators to map and ablate the sometimes fleeting automatic atrial tachycardia. The authors developed a 64 channel computerized cardiac mapping system using a microcomputer (Macintosh IIx) and this has been used for basic research in cardiac electrophysiology as well as in arrhythmia surgery. In this system, bipolar electrograms are obtained from 64 different cardiac sites simultaneously at a sampling rate of 1 Ksample/sec and with a continuous and total data storage of up to 30 seconds. When the reference electrode is selected, delay time from the reference point is displayed on a two dimensional diagram of the heart. This system was used in one patient who underwent a surgical ablation of a ventricular tachycardia in whom we observed a ventricular activation sequence involving a variety of rhythms over several minutes. The system design permits easy expansion to a simultaneous sampling from 256 sites. This 64-channel mapping appeared to have the potential to be of great help in our understanding of cardiac arrhythmia as well as in its diagnosis and surgical treatment.

Morphometric study of the lumbar spinal canal in the Korean population

STUDY DESIGN

The anatomic dimensions of the vertebral body and spinal canal of the lumbar spine were analyzed in Koreans.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the normal dimension of the lumbar spinal canal in Koreans, to determine whether there are any racial differences in the morphometry of the lumbar spinal canal, and to provide criteria for diagnosing spinal stenosis in the Far Eastern Asian.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Some radiologic and anatomic studies have been conducted regarding the size of the lumbar spinal canal of whites and blacks in western and African countries.

METHODS

One-thousand-eight-hundred measurements were performed on the transverse and sagittal diameters of vertebral bodies and spinal canals using complete sets of 90 lumbar vertebrae.

RESULTS

The mean mid-sagittal diameter of the lumbar spinal canal in the Korean population was less than that measured in white and African populations, but there was no significant differences between the Korean, white, and African populations regarding the transverse diameter of the lumbar spinal canal.

CONCLUSION

The mid-sagittal diameter of the lumbar spinal canal is narrowest in the Far Eastern Asian population; the radiologic criteria of spinal stenosis should be reconsidered for these people.

Pronuclear formation and intracellular glutathione content of in vitro-matured porcine oocytes following in vitro fertilisation and/or electrical activation

Pronuclear formation and intracellular content of glutathione, containing reduced and oxidised forms, in porcine oocytes matured in vitro were determined following insemination and/or electrical stimulation. After insemination, sperm penetration had occurred as early as 3 h and female pronuclei had formed by 6 h with complete development by 12 h. Male pronuclear formation occurred, primarily, between 9 and 12 h after insemination. Glutathione content of the oocytes decreased following sperm penetration and remained at a depressed level until 12 h. After electrical stimulation, oocyte activation had occurred and female pronuclei had formed by 3 and 6 h, respectively. Oocyte glutathione content did not change as a result of oocyte activation. When oocytes were exposed to an electrical pulse and then spermatozoa, female pronuclear formation was observed by 3 h after stimulation/insemination. Sperm penetration was observed between 3 and 9 h. However, the incidence of male pronuclear formation observed at 12 h was extremely low, although sperm decondensation had occurred in some oocytes. Oocyte glutathione content had not decreased by 6 h following electrical activation. These results demonstrate that the changes in glutathione content in porcine oocytes following fertilisation in vitro differ from those due to electrical activation. Further, the decreased intracellular glutathione content in oocytes activated by sperm penetration appears to be due to the presence of a sperm factor.

The relationship between isthmic and degenerative spondylolisthesis and the configuration of the lamina and facet joints

Advanced degenerative change in the facet joints leads to displacement of the vertebral body, and the configuration of facet joints and lamina is closely related to the development of degenerative spondylolisthesis. For this study 103 patients and 25 controls were examined with respect to the configuration of the lamina, anteroposterior diameter of the vertebral canal, interarticular distance, interlaminar distance, disc degeneration, and degree of arthritic changes of facet joint, all as shown of plain radiography, and facet angle, interfacet distance, and contour of the canal side of the inferior articular process and lamina, as shown on computed axial tomography. The results of this study showed that those patients with a narrow facet angle were more likely to have developed degenerative spondylolisthesis. If the sum of both facet angles was less than 77.9 degree, the risk of development of degenerative spondylolisthesis was 2.5 times higher than if the sum was greater than 77.9 degree. Those with type N lamina, detected on plain radiographs, were especially likely to have developed degenerative spondylolisthesis. This suggested that degenerative spondylolisthesis may be due to the less effective check mechanism preventing a vertebra from slipping forward on the vertebra below. We recommend fusion of the degenerated spinal segments when operation is considered in cases of acute facet angle with symptoms.

Effects of stimulators of protein kinases A and C and modulators of phosphorylation on plasminogen activator activity in porcine oocyte-cumulus cell complexes during in vitro maturation

Effects of phorbol myristate acetate (PMA), dibutyryl cyclic AMP (dbcAMP), 6-dimethylaminopurine (6-DMAP), and okadaic acid (OA) on plasminogen activator (PA) activity in porcine oocyte-cumulus cell complexes (POCC) in vitro were determined. Cumulus cell-enclosed oocytes were collected from 1-4 mm antral follicles and cultured in TCM-199 with 0.3% polyvinylpyrrolidone for 48 hr. PA activities in POCC were quantified using SDS-PAGE, casein-agar zymography, and densitometry. Two plasminogen-dependent lytic zones (93-96 kD and 71-79 kD) were observed in POCC. Addition of amiloride to the zymography, a competitive inhibitor of urokinase-type PA, failed to reduce activities in either zone, suggesting that the 71-79 kD band is a tissue-type PA (tPA) and the 93-96 kD band is possibly a tPA-inhibitor complex. Changes in PA activity due to the various treatments were expressed relative to the PA activity in 40 POCC. Increasing dbcAMP increased PA (P < 0.05) activity in dose-dependent fashion, whereas 6-DMAP and 10 and 100 ng/ml PMA inhibited (P < 0.05) PA activity. PA activity increased (P < 0.05) in POCC treated with up to 25 nM OA; however, activity decreased (P < 0.05) at concentrations > 75 nM. Treatment with 25 nM OA also induced the expression of an amiloride-sensitive PA (49-52 kD). Germinal vesicle breakdown and progression to metaphase II were inhibited (P < 0.05) by 2.5 mM dbcAMP and 2 mM 6-DMAP, whereas 100 ng/ml PMA and 25 nM OA inhibited (P < 0.05) only progression to metaphase II.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

A case of adult-onset Bartter's syndrome

Bartter's Syndrome is characterized by renal potassium wasting with hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis, increased renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, normal blood pressure, resistance to the pressor effects of angiotensin II and juxtaglomerular cell hyperplasia. Most of the cases have been noted in the pediatric age group and adult-onset cases are very rare. We report a case of adult-onset Bartter's syndrome.

Mid-sagittal canal diameter and vertebral body/canal ratio of the cervical spine in Koreans

In order to ascertain the normal values of the mid-sagittal canal diameter and the canal/body ratio of the cervical spine in Korean adults, ninety sets of cervical vertebral columns were examined. The average mid-sagittal canal diameters from C3 through C7 in the normal Korean are 13.2 +/- 1.3 millimeters in male and 13.1 +/- 2.6 millimeters in female. The normal average canal/body ratio of the cervical spine is 0.93 +/- 0.10 in male and 1.02 +/- 0.09 in female. The mid-sagittal canal diameter is largest in the White population and smallest in Asian, but there is no racial differences in the canal/body ratio, and the lower limit of normal canal/body ratio is 0.8 in Korean. The authors conclude that measurement of the canal/body ratio is more reliable than direct measuring of the mid-sagittal diameter of the cervical spinal canal in the diagnosis of cervical spinal stenosis or predicting the prognosis of cervical spinal cord injury.

Magnetic resonance imaging for the diagnosis of tuberculous spondylitis

OBJECTIVES

The purposes of this study were to evaluate the nature of the paraspinal soft tissue mass and the location of the lesion involved using magnetic resonance imaging and to correlate these observations with surgical findings.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

In the past, tuberculous spondylitis was diagnosed by plain radiography and since the 1970s, computed tomography has been a useful method for assessing tuberculous spondylitis. In contrast to most imaging methods, MRI has the advantages of improved contrast resolution for bone and soft tissues and versatility of direct imaging in multiple planes.

METHODS

Medical records and magnetic resonance imaging studies of 22 patients with bacteriologically and/or histologically proved tuberculous spondylitis were reviewed. In each patient, the numbers of vertebrae involved were evaluated as well as which columns of vertebrae were affected and the signal intensities of lesions. In addition, an attempt was made to determine if granulation tissue differed from the abscess based on magnetic resonance imaging appearance and to compare the outcome with surgical findings.

RESULTS

The average number of vertebrae involved per patient was 2.8 and T8 and T9 were the vertebrae most frequently affected. The destruction of vertebrae and discs was easily identified in both sagittal and axial planes. The peripheral margins were exclusively enhanced in all cases. Of particular interest, the posterior aspect of the vertebral body was predominantly involved. Mostly the involvement of both anterior and middle columns was noted. With the aid of intravenous administration of magnetic resonance contrast agents, magnetic resonance imaging was highly accurate in distinguishing the granulation tissue from the cold abscess.

CONCLUSIONS

Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated excellent images of bone destruction and soft tissue mass, and provided information in multiple planes, thereby delineating the extent of involvement in tuberculous spondylitis. Magnetic resonance imaging is most helpful in planning a surgical approach to tuberculous spondylitis.

Inhibitory mechanism of Ca2+ on the hemolysis caused by Vibrio vulnificus cytolysin

Calcium in millimolar concentrations protected mouse erythrocytes from hemolysis caused by Vibrio vulnificus cytolysin without affecting the release of intracellular K+ from the cells. This effect was maximal at 25 mM CaCl2. The protection was not absolute and could be partially overcome by increased concentrations of cytolysin. Calcium failed to block both the binding and oligomer formation of cytolysins on the erythrocyte membrane. After pore formation, the continued presence of calcium is required for the prevention of hemolysis. There was hardly any inflow of calcium into the erythrocytes through pores as measured by 45Ca2+ uptake. The presence of calcium after the abolition of Ca2+ gradient by ionomycin cannot inhibit the hemolysis caused by cytolysin. These results suggest that calcium exerts its major inhibitory effect on V. vulnificus cytolysin-induced hemolysis as an osmotic protectant, and that cytolysin may become an useful tool for permeabilizing cells selectively for small ions such as potassium or sodium while preventing the Ca2+ flow.

Morphometric study of the pedicles of thoracic and lumbar vertebrae in Koreans

STUDY DESIGN

The shape and size of the pedicles of the human spine differs within different races. The authors studied the diameters and angles of the spine pedicle from the T1 to L5 levels in Koreans. The following measurements were made 1) transverse diameter, 2) superoinferior diameter, 3) anteroposterior pedicle angle, 4) horizontal pedicle angle, and 5) pedicle axis angle.

OBJECTIVES

This study obtained indices of pedicle morphology in Koreans to use in transpedicular screw fixation and to explain the difference between other races and Koreans.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Internal fixators for vertebrae fixation have been developed. Knowledge of pedicle morphology is essential for pedicle screw use. The use of pedicle screws in Asians is questionable. Few reports exist regarding pedicle morphology, and in those few reports, the pedicle isthmus diameter, pedicle angles, and the depth to the anterior cortex are emphasized.

METHODS

The following measurements of the diameter and length of the human cadaver pedicle were done with vernier and dial calipers: 1) transverse diameter of pedicles, 2) superoinferior diameter of pedicles, 3) anteroposterior pedicle angle, and 4) horizontal pedicle and pedicle axis angles.

RESULTS

The widest transverse diameter of the pedicle was seen at the L5 level and the narrowest was at the T4 level. The widest superoinferior diameter of the pedicle was seen at the T12 level, the narrowest was at the T1 level. In the transverse plane, the angles of the pedicles of T11 and T12 were faced laterally. The anteroposterior angle increased rapidly at the T4 level, with the T1 level having the greatest. In the sagittal plane, the horizontal angle of the lumbar vertebra was almost parallel to the horizontal plane. The pedicle axis was longest at the L3 level and shortest at the T1 level. In all areas, the transverse diameter of the pedicle in males was wider than the that in the female.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that using 6-mm screws can violate the cortex of the pedicles in a significant number of levels of the upper lumbar spine. Using a screw longer than 40 mm is dangerous in the lower thoracic spine of a Korean. A statistical difference exists between the transverse diameter of the pedicles of Westerners and Koreans.

Electrodiagnostic and histologic changes of graded caudal compression on cauda equina in dog

STUDY DESIGN

An animal model of lumbar spinal stenosis, in which the pathophysiology of this condition could be examined, was retrieved according to Delamarter's method.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to develop a reproducible animal model of lumbar spinal stenosis to further understanding of the long-term electrophysiologic changes, and to detect prognostic indices of the long-term anatomic and physiologic status of chronic compression of the cauda equina.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Somatosensory-evoked potentials and bulbocavernosus reflexes revealed abnormalities before neurologic signs and symptoms appeared. If delayed somatosensory-evoked potentials and bulbocavernosus reflexes were recovered with the lapse of time, neurologic findings showed gradual recovery. The loss of somatosensory-evoked potentials, bulbocavernosus reflexes, and neurologic, histological abnormalities occurred at 50% constriction of the cauda equina; at the same time, that was the critical point of possible recovery.

METHODS

Four experimental groups, each containing six dogs, were studied. One group had a laminectomy of the sixth and seventh lumbar vertebrae only; these animals served as controls. In the three other groups, a laminectomy was performed, and the cauda equina was constricted by 25%, 50%, or 75% to produce chronic compression according to Delamarter's method.

RESULTS

Somatosensory-evoked potentials and bulbocavernosus reflexes revealed neurologic abnormalities before the appearance of neurological signs and symptoms. Constriction of more than 50% was the critical point; it resulted in loss of evoked potentials, reflexes, neurologic deficits, and histological abnormalities.

CONCLUSION

To accurately forecast prognosis of chronic cauda equina compression, the combined diagnostic study of somatosensory-evoked potential with bulbocavernosus reflex is recommended.

The Orthofix external fixator for fractures of long bones

The Orthofix external fixator was used to treat 112 fractures of the long bones in 101 patients, and 22 patients with infected nonunions. Our results compared favourably with those reported in other series where external fixation was used. The overall rate of uncomplicated union was 69.6% with 24.1% of patients requiring a further operation. The overall incidence of nonunion (30.4%) was due to the relatively large number of severe open fractures in the series. The apparatus was simple to apply, and safe and effective in practice. We recommend its use for the primary treatment of open and segmental fractures, and for infected nonunion.

Pulmonary vein thrombosis

Pulmonary vein thrombosis is difficult to diagnose clinically and requires a combination of conventional diagnostic modalities. Transesophageal echocardiography was used in the present case to readily diagnose this entity and follow thrombus regression on anticoagulant therapy. This limited experience suggests that transesophageal echocardiography may be the initial diagnostic study of choice for pulmonary vein thrombosis.

An investigation of bone necrosis and healing after cryosurgery, phenol cautery or packing with bone cement of defects in the dog femur

A corticocancellous core was removed from the lateral condyle of both femurs in 26 skeletally mature dogs. The cavity was treated with cryosurgery, phenol cautery or packing with bone cement. The animals were killed after 1, 4, and 12 weeks in the phenol and cement groups, and also after 24 weeks in the cryosurgery group. The extent of the bone necrosis and healing was assessed in each group. After cryosurgery the extent of necrosis was profound in that the area of damage was 365% compared to the area of the cavity; the depth of necrosis extended between 2.5 and 14 mm, beyond the cavity wall. The effect of phenol was negligible in that only microscopic areas of superficial focal necrosis were found around the cavity wall. Bone cement produced an area of necrosis of 153% compared with the cavity, with a depth of between 1.3 and 2.8 mm. Regeneration in the region of necrosis after cryosurgery was only scanty by 4 weeks, but by 12 weeks considerable areas of regeneration were identified and complete healing was observed by 24 weeks. Regeneration of the necrotized bone produced by bone cement packing was rapid and similar to that of the control specimens. These findings suggest that cryosurgery could play a significant role as a surgical adjunct to curettage in locally aggressive benign bone tumours and in some malignancies. Phenol cautery is not regarded as an adequate treatment after curettage of bone tumours. Although the extent of necrosis was relatively small, packing with bone cement is thought to be a useful choice in benign cases.

Prevalence of head louse infestation in primary school children in Kangwon-do, Korea

We tried to reveal the prevalence rates of the head louse infestation in school children in Kangwon-do, Korea in December 1990. A total of 912 children in four primary schools was examined. The positive rate for adults and/or nits of Pediculus humanus capitis was 37.2%. One school was followed-up without specific intervention. There was no significant change of the prevalence rate 6 months after the first examination from 66.0% to 57.3%. We could see the persistent infestation rate if there was no intervention. We are emphasizing the significance of worm positive rate because it represents the potentiality of active transmission.

A computed tomographic analysis of changes in the spinal canal after anterior lumbar interbody fusion

Thirteen patients with spondylolisthesis (six isthmic type and seven degenerative type) and ten patients with intervertebral disk herniation were treated by anterior lumbar interbody fusion. Preoperative and postoperative computed tomography (CT) scans were performed for each patient, and changes in anteroposterior (AP) diameter and lateral diameter of the dural sac, the area of the dural sac, and the amount of disk bulging were measured. The periodic tomogram was done in all patients postoperatively, and one- and two-year fusion rates were calculated. The calculations were compared with the early and late clinical results. The early clinical results after operation were excellent in 26.1%, good in 56.5%, and fair in 17.4%. The late clinical results were similar to early results. The early clinical results correlated with the changes in the spinal canal, such as an increase in AP diameter of the dural sac and a decrease in amount of disk bulging after anterior interbody fusion. There was statistical correlation between the early clinical results and the change in AP diameter of the dural sac. But the late clinical results were influenced by multiple factors including solid bony fusion.

Cimetidine improves the accuracy of creatinine clearance as an indicator for glomerular filtration rate

BACKGROUND

Although endogenous creatinine clearance is often used as an indicator for the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), it may result in an overestimation due to its tubular secretion. Since cimetidine is known to inhibit tubular secretion of creatinine, it may improve the accuracy of the creatinine clearance in measuring GFR.

METHODS

Creatinine clearance (Ccr) was compared with iothalamate clearance (C1oth) during oral administration of either placebo or cimetidine in 25 patients with varying degrees of renal dysfunction.

RESULTS

Cimetidine itself had no effect on C1oth but decreased Ccr, improving its validity, as measured by a significant decrease of Ccr/C1oth from 1.72 during placebo to 1.17 during cimetidine administration. The degree of overestimation measured by the Ccr was more pronounced in those with more severe renal dysfunction. A significant inverse correlation was noted between Ccr/C1oth and GFR. No apparent side effect due to cimetidine was noted.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that cimetidine improves the accuracy of Ccr as an indicator for GFR in patients with varying degrees of renal dysfunction.

Chronic caffeine ingestion exacerbates 2-kidney, 1-clip hypertension and ameliorates deoxycorticosterone acetate-salt hypertension in rats

The present study was aimed to determine the effect of caffeine on the development of renal hypertension. Two-kidney, 1-clip (2K1C) hypertension and deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA, 200 mg/kg, subcutaneous implantation)-salt (0.9% NaCl drinking) hypertension were instituted in Sprague-Dawley rats. They were then grouped into two groups each: one was supplemented with caffeine (0.1%) in their drinking solution and the other was not. Systolic blood pressure was measured up to 24 days. Caffeine exacerbated the development of 2K1C hypertension in association with a higher plasma renin concentration (PRC). Caffeine ingestion, however, did not exacerbate but ameliorated DOCA-salt hypertension in which PRC was comparable between the caffeine-ingested and control groups. Concentrations of plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (pANP) were significantly different between the caffeine-ingested and control groups neither in 2K1C nor in DOCA-salt rats, suggesting that ANP was not responsible for the modified blood pressure. Acute caffeine infusion (350 micrograms/min, 30 min) in anesthetized normotensive rats caused increases in urinary excretion (volume and sodium) and in PRC without significantly affecting the blood pressure and pANP. These results suggest that caffeine specifically exacerbates 2K1C hypertension through increasing renin release whereas it ameliorates DOCA-salt hypertension possibly through increasing renal excretion.

On detecting the presence of fetal R-wave using the moving averaged magnitude difference algorithm

An efficient algorithm detecting the presence of a fetal QRS complex is presented. The proposed fetal QRS detection method computes the averaged magnitude of the difference between the fetal ECG signal and the reference signal to detect the fetal QRS event. The detected fetal QRS complexes are exponentially averaged to generate the template signal which can track the slowly varying shape of the fetal ECG signal. As an effort to obtain improved detection performances, two approaches of normalizing the fetal ECG signal and the template are considered.

Effect of porcine bone morphogenetic protein on healing of bone defect in the rabbit radius

Segmental long bone defects due to infection or trauma is a difficult problem to manage in patients. We studied the effect of porcine bone morphogenetic protein (pBMP) on healing of defects in the rabbit radius. Porcine BMP was separated and purified from the tibia and femur of pigs by repeated solubilization and precipitation of the protein with different concentrations of urea and GuHCl. The osteoinductive activity of pBMP was confirmed by bioassay using No. 615 mice. In rabbits, about a 15 mm length of radii were removed and 20 mg of pBMP was implanted in the defected area with fibrin sealant (FS), while only FS was implanted in controls. Union of the affected area was observed in 6 weeks in the experimental side. There was no definite evidence of bone bridging across the affected area in the controls. This suggests that pBMP has a bone forming activity in other species and the clinical use of pBMP in treating patients with segmental bone defects is promising.

Anterior interbody fusion for spondylolisthesis

We evaluated the clinical and radiologic results and the immobilizing effect of the Knight-Kim brace for bony union in 75 consecutive cases of spondylolisthesis treated by anterior interbody fusion. The fifth lumbar vertebra was the most common site involved (55%). The patients were followed for a minimum of 2 1/2 years (range: 2 1/2 to 14; average: 4.5). All cases were approached retroperitoneally, and autogenous bone graft was obtained from the iliac crest. The donor site was reconstructed by polymethylmethacrylate bone cement. Among the 75 cases of grade I, II, and III slippage according to Meyerding's grading system, 58 cases (77%) showed complete bony union after 1 year follow up. Excellent and good clinical results were obtained in 65 cases (87%) at 1 year postoperatively. The state of bony union did not always correlate with the clinical symptoms. We conclude that the simple Knight-Kim back brace was valuable for postoperative immobilization.