Flame atomic absorption spectrometric determination of lead in waste water and effluent after preconcentration using a rapid coprecipitation technique with gallium phosphate

A determination method for lead in waste water and effluent was studied using flame atomic absorption spectrometry after preconcentration of lead by the rapid coprecipitation technique with gallium phosphate. Lead ranging from 0.5 to 50 microg was quantitatively coprecipitated with gallium phosphate from 100-150 mL sample solution (pH approximately 5). The presence of gallium phosphate did not affect the atomic absorbance of lead. Since the concentration of gallium in the final sample solution is also measurable by flame atomic absorption spectrometry at 250.0 nm without further dilution, the rapid coprecipitation technique, which does not require complete collection of the precipitate, becomes possible using a known amount of gallium and measuring the concentrations of both lead and gallium in the final sample solution by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The 32 diverse ions tested gave no significant interferences in the lead determination. The method proposed here is rapid and has good reproducibility.

Clinical importance of n-3 fatty acid-rich diet and nutritional education for the maintenance of remission in Crohn's disease

Elemental diet (ED) therapy has been established as primary therapy for Crohn's disease, and home enteral nutrition (HEN) has been reported to control relapse at a dose of more than 30kcal/kg of ideal body weight. However, a decrease in ED compliance with long-term use is becoming problem. We developed an n-3 fatty acid-rich diet and carried out nutritional education specifically for Crohn's disease patients using HEN to facilitate compliance and to improve their nutritional status. After the introduction of this n-3 rich diet, disease activity was not altered, and nutritional status, especially serum n-3 fatty acid levels, improved. The remission periods in patients with poor compliance seemed to be prolonged by the nutritional education. Thus, a n-3 rich diet in combination with nutritional education specific for Crohn's disease patients is very important for the in maintenance of high compliance and for maintaining nutritional balance.

The beneficial effect of mesalazine on esophageal ulcers in intestinal Behcet's disease

Intestinal Behcet's disease in a 19-year-old girl was diagnosed because of the history of recurrent oral aphthous ulcers and typical endoscopic findings of esophageal and ileal ulcers. Her symptoms (e.g., dysphagia and retrosternal pain) were gradually relieved by treatment with prednisolone and total parenteral nutrition. However, about one month later, oral and esophageal ulcers appeared again. Mesalazine was added. Oral and esophageal ulcers healed promptly, and have not relapsed for about one year. Although mesalazine appears to act locally in the small intestine and colon, the therapeutic effect of mesalazine in this case may be explained by the systemic antiinflammatory effect. This case suggests that mesalazine is an effective drug and is a good candidate in the treatment of intestinal Behcet's disease, especially accompanied with esophageal involvement.

IDPN-induced monoamine and hydroxyl radical changes in the rat brain

beta-beta'-iminodipropionitrile (IDPN)-induced monoamine and hydroxyl radical changes in the rat brains were studied. IDPN caused decreases in 5-HT and 5-HIAA levels in all brain regions, strongly indicating that IDPN's neurotoxicity primarily affects 5-HT containing neurons. Dopamine and its metabolites' levels decreased in the some regions, most likely due to depression of dopamine metabolic turnover. Our results more clearly demonstrate IDPN-induced monoamine alterations in the rat brain more than previous reports. To clarify one of the pathogenesis of IDPN-induced neurological disorders, we measured hydroxyl radical levels. 2,3-DHBA increased at 1st day, and decreased in some regions at 7th days after discontinuing IDPN. We conclude, hydroxyl radical formation causes neuronal damage, and monoamine changes contribute to IDPN-induced neurological disorder.

An in vitro chemosensitivity test for colorectal cancer using collagen-gel droplet embedded cultures

This study evaluated in vitro assay for chemosensitivity test using a collagen-gel droplet embedded culture drug sensitivity test (CD-DST) for colorectal cancer. CD-DST was performed in 24 patients with Dukes B, C colorectal cancer. Primary cultures of tumor cell samples from 87.5% (21/24) patients with colorectal cancer were successful. The efficacy rates assessed by CD-DST of five anticancer drugs evaluated were: 60.4% for adriamycin, 58.9% for etoposide, 56.7% for cisplatin, 53.4% for 5-fluorouracil, for 31.1% for mitomycin C, and 9.5% for vindesine. The present study demonstrated the clinical usefulness of CD-DST in evaluating the response to chemotherapy in colorectal cancer.

Mouse oviduct-specific glycoprotein gene: genomic organization and structure of the 5'-flanking regulatory region

A member of the chitinase protein family, oviduct-specific glycoprotein (OGP), can directly associate with gametes or with the early embryo in the oviduct. Although the glycoprotein is widely distributed among mammalian species and there is indirect evidence concerning the involvement of the molecule in the fertilization process, its physiological functions are far from completely understood. To understand the fundamental mechanisms that direct gene expression as well as to know the physiological significance of OGP, we have isolated and characterized a mouse OGP gene (mogp-1). The gene was found to span 13.4 kilobases (kb) including 11 exons and 10 introns. The genomic organization of mogp-1 is well conserved compared to the other members of the chitinase family. Two transcription initiation sites were found at positions 18 and 14 upstream from the first ATG codon. Fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis demonstrated that the mogp-1 was located on the R-positive F3 band of mouse chromosome 3. Although the putative promoter region of mogp-1 lacked typical TATA, CAAT, or GC box sequences, the region contained several motif sequences of transcription factor binding sites including 10 half-palindromic estrogen responsive elements (ERE) and an imperfect ERE. Transient transfection experiments demonstrated that promoter activity could be modulated by various sequences within the 2.2 kb of the 5'-flanking region, and that the mogp-1 promoter was transactivated in an estrogen receptor-positive cell line, MCF-7, by the addition of estradiol-17beta (E(2)). In addition, relevant promoter activity for E(2) responsiveness resides within the first 270 base pairs upstream of the mogp-1. These findings should facilitate our understanding of the regulation of OGP gene expression, and they may be helpful for designing experiments to unravel the role of OGP in the process of mammalian fertilization.

Development of dextran sulphate sodium-induced experimental colitis is suppressed in genetically mast cell-deficient Ws/Ws rats

Ws/Ws rats have a small deletion of the c-kit gene, and are deficient in both mucosal-type mast cells (MMC) and connective tissue-type mast cells (CTMC). In the present study we investigated the role of intestinal MMC in the development of dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)-induced experimental colitis using Ws/Ws rats. Ws/Ws and control (+/+) rats were given a 3% DSS aqueous solution orally for 10 days, and the subsequent mucosal damage was evaluated macroscopically and histologically. The mucosal myeloperoxidase (MPO) activities and histamine levels were also measured. (i) DSS induced severe oedema and hyperaemia with sporadic erosions in the control (+/+) rats, but these changes were significantly attenuated in the Ws/Ws rats (P < 0.01). (ii) The microscopic mucosal damage score was lower in the Ws/Ws rats than in the control (+/+) rats (P = 0.06). (iii) There were no significant differences in mucosal MPO activity between the Ws/Ws and control (+/+) rats (P = 0.46). (iv) The mucosal histamine levels in the colon were significantly reduced in the Ws/Ws rats compared with the control (+/+) rats (P < 0.05). (v) Significant positive correlations were observed between mucosal histamine levels and the degree of mucosal oedema (calculated as colonic wet weight/protein content) (r = 0.778, P < 0.01), and between histamine levels and the macroscopic damage (r = 0.623, P < 0.05), respectively. (vi) DSS induced a local recruitment of MMC in the colonic mucosa of Ws/Ws rats, and mucosal damage gradually increased in accordance with this MMC recruitment. These results indicate that MMC play an important role in the development of DSS colitis.

A case of subarachnoid hemorrhage presenting with temporary blindness disclosed by Xe CT-CBF study

A 69-year-old male with right oculomotor palsy caused by non-ruptured right internal carotid-posterior communicating artery aneurysm suddenly became blind after cerebral angiography. He lost consensual response of left eye, in spite of no preretinal hemorrhage. Xenon computed tomography(Xe-CT) showed moderate cerebral blood flow(CBF) decrease of bilateral posterior cerebral artery territories at the values of 26.9 ml/100 g/min(left) and 28.3 ml/100 g/min(right), which were about 30% under our control value. However, MR T2-weighted imaging demonstrated no cerebral infarction. Two weeks later, regional CBF values were improved and 6 months later his visual acuity were almost cured. We conclude that Xe-CT CBF study supports the hypothesis of the temporary blindness due to the optic chiasm and nerves injuries by subarachnoid hemorrhage.

[Effects of different explanations for performance on a learned helplessness task in undergraduates]

Two groups of undergraduates were asked to solve anagrams and arithmetic problems. All the anagrams were solvable but part of the arithmetic problems was insolvable. After the preliminary task, one of the two explanations was given; internal attribution participants (Internal group, N = 22) were told that their failure was due to their problem-solving ability, while external attribution participants (External group, N = 21) were told that they failed because some of the problems had no solution. After the explanations, the groups worked on another set of solvable problems. The test task performance of internal group was significantly lower than that of External group (p = .05), and it was significantly lower than the group's preliminary task (p < .01). No deterioration effect was found for External group. These results supported the implications of the reformulated learned helplessness theory by Abramson, Seligman, and Teasdale (1978). In addition, relationships between performance and participants' attitude such as attributional style and optimism were examined with measurement before and after the task, but no significant correlation was found.

Tyrosine phosphorylation of a 34-kDa protein induced by cross-linking a novel glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored glycoprotein (GPI-80) on human neutrophils that may regulate their adherence and migration

We previously found a novel glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored glycoprotein designated GPI-80 that modulates complement receptor 3 integrin-dependent adhesion and in vitro transendothelial migration of neutrophils. In this study, we show that antibody-mediated cross-linking of GPI-80 led to rapid tyrosine phosphorylation mainly of a 34-kDa protein (pp34). Chemical inhibitors, such as genistein, sodium orthovanadate, wortmannin, cytochalasin B, Ro 31-8220, and 1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N',-tetraacetic acid inhibited this response, whereas pertussis toxin had no effect. These findings demonstrate that the tyrosine phosphorylation of pp34 by cross-linking GPI-80 in human neutrophils involves tyrosine kinases, tyrosine phosphatases, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, cytoskeleton reorganization, protein kinase C, and cytoplasmic calcium, but not heterotrimeric G proteins.

Persistent hypoglossal artery associated with arteriovenous malformation: a case report

A rare case of persistent hypoglossal artery in conjunction with arteriovenous malformation was presented. MRA could delineate persistent hypoglossal artery and arteriovenous malformation very clearly. The patient suffered from intracranial hemorrhage from in the 37th week of pregnancy. MRI, MRA, angiography, and CT of this rare condition are reported.

Medium-chain triglycerides modulate ileitis induced by trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid

BACKGROUND

It is important to develop an appropriate animal model for further investigation into inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We therefore investigated a trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) ileitis model. Dietary fat in Crohn's disease is still a controversial risk factor for IBD. We therefore also studied the effects of medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) and long-chain triglycerides (LCT) on TNBS ileitis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

An intraileal injection of TNBS induced ulceration and inflammation with thickening of the intestinal wall, which were characterized histologically by infiltration of polymorphic nuclear leucocytes and by granuloma formation. The mucosal damage score and serum sialic acid levels reached their highest 7 days after the TNBS injection and then gradually decreased. The mucosal damage series in the MCT group was significantly lower than in the LCT group, and levels of tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and leukotriene B4 (LTB4) tended to be lower in the MCT group.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggested that TNBS enteritis might be useful as an IBD animal model and that MCT modulates intestinal inflammation and is less damaging than LCT.

Novel function of the eukaryotic polypeptide-chain releasing factor 3 (eRF3/GSPT) in the mRNA degradation pathway

The mammalian GTP-binding protein GSPT, whose carboxy-terminal sequence is homologous to the eukaryotic elongation factor EF1alpha, binds to the polypeptide chain releasing factor eRF1 to function as eRF3 in translation termination. However, the amino-terminal domain of GSPT, which contains a prion-like sequence, is not required for the binding. Instead, the amino-terminal domain is capable of binding to the carboxy-terminal domain of polyadenylate-binding protein (PABP), whose amino terminus is associating with the poly(A) tail of mRNAs, presumably for their stabilization. Interestingly, multimerization of PABP with poly(A), which is ascribed to the action of its carboxy-terminal domain, was completely inhibited by the interaction with the amino-terminal domain of GSPT. This may facilitate shortening of the poly(A) tail of mRNAs by an RNase. Thus, GSPT/eRF3 appears to function not only as a stimulator of eRF1 in the translation termination but also as an initiator of the mRNA degradation machinery. Further physiological and cell biological approaches will be necessary to show whether our current in vitro findings on GSPT/eRF3 indeed reflect its bifunctional properties in living cells.

Permissible arterial occlusion time in aneurysm surgery: postoperative hyperperfusion caused by temporary clipping

The relationship between hyperperfusion and temporary clipping was evaluated to determine the safe limit for the duration of temporary clipping in aneurysm surgery. Twenty-one patients surgically treated for a ruptured aneurysm were examined using xenon-enhanced computed tomography on postoperative days 4 to 13. Eight of the 16 patients undergoing temporary clipping had focal hyperperfusion; whereas the five patients without temporary clipping had no hyperperfusion. Mean total temporary clipping time in patients with hyperperfusion was significantly longer than that in patients without (31.9 vs. 13.9 minutes, p = 0.0157) and mean maximum single temporary clipping time in patients with hyperperfusion was also significantly longer than in patients without (18.4 vs. 8.6 minutes, p = 0.0313). Moreover, cerebral infarction was related to hyperperfusion (p = 0.0027). These results support the hypothesis that temporary clipping during aneurysm surgery causes postoperative hyperperfusion and cerebral infarction. Temporary clipping may be harmful when performed for more than 20 minutes of total duration, since postoperative hyperperfusion was seen under this condition.

Characteristic transport of lactoferrin from the intestinal lumen into the bile via the blood in piglets

Lactoferrin is a major iron-binding protein in milk from several species, such as humans, monkeys, mice and sows. Using neonatal and weaner piglets, the characteristic transfer of lactoferrin from intestinal lumen into bile via the circulation was investigated. Bovine lactoferrin (1 or 3 g/kg body weight) was infused into the stomach through a polyethylene tube or into the duodenum through a duodenal catheter over 5 min. Peripheral blood and bile samples were collected after the infusion. Lactoferrin absorbed into plasma and bile were assayed quantitatively by double-antibody enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and homogeneity of bovine lactoferrin in plasma and bile was identified by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and immunoblotting methods. Morphological investigation was carried out according to the peroxidase anti-peroxidase method. Following oral administration in neonatal pigs, bovine lactoferrin appeared in the blood circulation and reached a peak level after 2 h. It was confirmed immunohistochemically that lactoferrin was transported by endocytosis via the epithelial cells. Lactoferrin absorbed into the blood was also detected in the bile and reached a peak value 12 h after oral administration. Transportation of lactoferrin from the intestinal lumen into the bile via the bloodstream was also observed in weaner piglets. Lactoferrin transported into plasma and bile was confirmed to be the same substance as administrated lactoferrin by electrophoresis and immunoblotting methods. Lactoferrin transported into bile was re-absorbed into the blood in neonatal pigs. These results demonstrate that lactoferrin contained in milk is transported into the circulation from the intestinal lumen and excreted into the bile, suggesting the possibility of entero-hepatic circulation of lactoferrin in neonatal pigs.

Mannose-binding molecules of rat spermatozoa and sperm-egg interaction

We have previously reported the occurrence and partial characterisation of an alpha-D-mannosidase activity on plasma membranes of rat, mouse, hamster and human spermatozoa. A soluble isoform of the rat sperm surface mannosidase was purified and polyclonal antibody raised. Since several reports have suggested that mannosyl residues on the rat, mouse and human zona pellucida may be involved in sperm-zona binding, studies were undertaken to examine the receptor-like role of mannose-binding molecules on rat spermatozoa. Sprague-Dawley rats (25-30-days old) were superovulated and eggs collected from the oviduct were treated with 0.3% hyaluronidase to remove the cumulus cells. Spermatozoa, collected from the cauda epididymis were capacitated for 5 h at 37 degrees C in 5% CO2 in air. The sperm-zona binding assay was performed in the presence of increasing concentrations of several sugars as well as preimmune and immune (anti-mannosidase or anti-mannose binding protein) IgG. Data from these studies show that: (1) significantly fewer sperm bound per egg in the presence of competitive inhibitors of mannosidase; (2) among the sugars examined, D-mannose was the most potent inhibitor causing 70% reduction in the number of sperm bound per egg; (3) anti-mannosidase or anti-mannose binding protein (but not preimmune) IgG showed a dose-dependent reduction in the number of sperm bound per egg; (4) anti-mannosidase IgG (but not anti-mannose binding protein IgG) showed a dose-dependent inhibition of sperm surface mannosidase activity; (5) the competitive inhibitors of mannosidase or the immune IgG had no effect on sperm motility or the sperm acrosome reaction. These result suggest that mannose-binding molecule(s) such as alpha-D-mannosidase or mannose-binding protein on the spermatozoa may recognise mannosyl residues on zona pellucida, and play a receptor-like role in sperm-egg interaction in the rat.

[A case of aminophylline hypersensitivity reaction due to ethylenediamine]

We present a case of aminophylline hypersensitivity reaction due to ethylenediamine. A thirty-year-old Japanese female admitted to our hospital to evaluate generalized urticarial reaction immediately after intravenous administration of aminophylline. Skin intradermal testing was positive with ethylenediamine. A positive intravenous test was found with aminophylline and negative with diprophylline which does not contain ethylenediamine. There are some reports of aminophylline hypersensitivity reaction and the most cases were delayed type reaction in English literatures. However, most of Japanese cases were immediate type. Acetylation is a main metabolic pathway of ethylenediamine. Most of Japanese have a rapid or intermediate acetylators on the other hand. Caucasian have a 50% likelihood of being slow acetylators. This difference suggest the different incidences of immediate and delayed reaction of aminophylline hypersensitivity reaction in Japanese and Caucasian respectively.

Counter-regulatory effect of sodium butyrate on tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)-induced complement C3 and factor B biosynthesis in human intestinal epithelial cells

The various biological activities of butyrate have been well documented. In this study, we tested the effects of butyrate on TNF-alpha-induced complement C3 and factor B biosynthesis in human intestinal epithelial cells. The biosynthesis of C3, factor B and IL-8 was evaluated at the protein and mRNA levels. To evaluate transcriptional activation, the nuclear run-on assay was performed. The transcription factor-DNA binding activity was assessed by an electrophoretic gel mobility shift assay (EMSA). In the intestinal epithelial cell lines HT-29, T84 and Caco-2, sodium butyrate enhanced TNF-alpha-induced C3 secretion, but suppressed TNF-alpha-induced factor B and IL-8 secretion. Nuclear run-on assay revealed that transcriptional regulatory mechanisms are involved in the effects of sodium butyrate. The EMSAs indicated that sodium butyrate suppressed TNF-alpha-induced nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB- and activation protein (AP)-1-DNA binding activity, but enhanced TNF-alpha-induced activation of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP)beta (NF-IL-6)-DNA binding activity. Sodium butyrate induced a counter-regulatory effect on TNF-alpha-induced C3 and factor B biosynthesis in human intestinal epithelial cells. Butyrate action has been discussed with its activity to induce histone hyperacetylation, but its counter-regulatory effect on complement biosynthesis may be closely associated with the modulation of transcription factor activation.

Biochemical and physiological properties of pedicellarial lectins from the toxopneustid sea urchins

Pedicellarial lectins (SUL-I, SUL-II, and TGL-I) were purified from the toxopneustid sea urchins, Toxopneustes pileolus and Tripneustes gratilla using gel filtration chromatography, affinity chromatography, and reverse-phase HPLC. SUL-I (Nakagawa et al., 1996) and SUL-II from the large globiferous pedicellariae of T. pileolus are D-galactose-binding lectins with molecular masses of 32 kDa and 23 kDa, respectively; while TGL-I from the globiferous pedicellariae of T. gratilla is a Ca(2+)-independent heparin-binding lectin with a molecular mass of 23 kDa. SUL-I induced mitogenic stimulation on murine splenocytes but TGL-I did not. At higher dose ranges SUL-I exhibited inhibitory effects on the cells. The dual response to SUL-I was effectively inhibited by D-galactose. SUL-I enhanced norepinephrine-induced contraction of isolated rat mesenteric artery with endothelium. When endothelium was removed from the artery, acetylcholine did not relax the norepinephrine-induced contraction. In the same artery the enhancing effect of the contraction by SUL-I was abolished, suggesting that SUL-I acts on the endothelium of mesenteric artery, and may release prostanoids. The present results suggest an extracellular function for SUL-I that may have wide-ranging effects in physiological processes. The primary role of pedicellarial lectins from T. pileolus and T. gratilla might be defense against a foreign body.

A case of rectoprostatic fistula due to prostatic abscess visualized by barium enema

We report a rare case of rectoprostatic fistula due to spontaneous rupture of a prostatic abscess in a patient with diabetes mellitus. Barium enema clearly showed rectoprostatic fistula. Barium enema and colonoscopy were very useful in demonstrating the rectoprostatic fistula.

Transsacral rectopexy for recurrent complete rectal prolapse

The aim of this study was to examine the functional outcome of transsacral rectopexy performed with Dexon mesh for recurrent complete rectal prolapse. Anorectal function was assessed by anorectal manometry and defecography, before and from 1 year after surgery in five patients who were followed up for 1-3 years. The fecal incontinence score recovered from a preoperative mean score of 3.8 to a postoperative mean score of 1.2, and constipation was improved in four patients (80%). The straining anorectal angle (S-ARA), measured by defecography, improved from a preoperative value of 120.6 degrees +/- 6.9 degrees to a postoperative value of 98.5 degrees +/- 3.5 degrees (P < 0.05), and the perineal descent (PD) improved from a preoperative value of 16.2 +/- 2.5 cm to a postoperative value of 8.1 +/- 1.3 cm (P < 0.05). The maximal resting pressure (MRP) increased from a preoperative value of 20.5 +/- 3.7 cmH2O to a postoperative value of 40.5 +/- 4.8 cmH2O (P < 0.05). These findings indicate that transsacral rectopexy with Dexon mesh can achieve good control of recurrent complete rectal prolapse.

Regulation of leukocyte adherence and migration by glycosylphosphatidyl-inositol-anchored proteins

Leukocyte extravasation is essential for subsequent inflammation and the immune response. Extravasation can be divided into at least three steps; rolling, firm adhesion, and transendothelial migration. Although the mechanisms involved in the first two steps have been fairly well documented, the last step is complex and largely remains to be clarified. This review focuses on the possible role of GPI-anchored proteins on leukocytes in the regulation of their transendothelial migration. In addition to regulation by urokinase and its receptor, which has been regarded as the main modulator, we draw attention to a novel GPI-anchored protein (GPI-80) on human phagocytes that may be involved in regulating leukocyte adhesion and migration. The high degree of homology of GPI-80 with vanin-1, which is expressed on vascular tissues and is involved in prethymic cell homing into the thymus, raises the possibility that there is a family of molecules, including GPI-80 and vanin-1, that may be involved in leukocyte transendothelial migration. The possible role of soluble GPI-anchored proteins in this process is also discussed.

Functional results of colonic J-pouch anastomosis for rectal cancer

The purpose of this study was to clarify the functional outcomes of colonic J-pouch anastomosis (J-LAR) for lower rectal cancer in comparison with those of traditional straight anastomosis (S-LAR). A questionnaire regarding anorectal function was conducted 1 year after operation on patients who underwent J-LAR (n = 15) and S-LAR (n = 30). The clinical functions were assessed by an incontinence scoring system. The physiologic function was assessed by anorectal manometry and the balloon expulsion test. No patients demonstrated a diverting stoma. The bowel frequency (range) 1 year after operation was 4.8 (3-6) in the S-LAR group and significantly decreased to 1.8 (1-3) in the J-LAR group (P < 0.05). Complete evacuation was 50.2% (40%-60%) in the S-LAR group and significantly increased to 80.6% (60%-90%) in the J-LAR group (P < 0.05). Neorectal compliance was 2.2 (1.4-2.9) ml/mmHg in the S-LAR group and significantly increased to 3.1 (1.3-3.5) ml/mmHg in the J-LAR group (P < 0.01). No significant difference was observed between the two groups regarding the maximum resting or maximum voluntary squeezing pressure. In conclusion, our findings suggested colonic pouch anastomosis performed after a low anterior resection to support the compliance of the (neo)rectum to be an important factor for retaining a satisfactory bowel frequency.

Successful metaphase chromosome analysis of human elongated spermatids using mouse oocytes

Human elongated spermatids from azoospermic patients were inserted into mouse oocytes by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). The injection resulted in survival rates of 46.5% (180 out of 387) and activation rates of 36.1% (65 out of 180). The rate of two pronuclear (2PN) formation was 35.4% (23 out of 65). Only 34.8% (eight out of 23) metaphase chromosome spreads from 2PN zygotes could be analysed; however, all were of normal karyotype. Cytogenetic analysis at the first metaphase revealed that human elongated spermatid chromosomes were able to undergo replication in a heterogeneous environment.

Permeability of iodinated and MR contrast media through two types of hemodialysis membrane

The clearance of three iodinated contrast media (CM) and three MR-CM through two kinds of hemodialysis (HD) membranes were investigated in vitro. All three MR-CM are not only injected intravenously and mainly secreted through the kidney, but also now commercially available. Each of the six CM showed significantly higher clearance with one kind of HD membrane, with a larger pore size, than that with the other. There were also large differences in clearance between the three iodinated CM with both kinds of HD membranes, but not between the three MR-CM with either kind of membrane. Thus, in order that iodinated CM be removed from the body as soon as possible in HD patients, it is important to consider the choice not only among the iodinated CM, but also between the type of HD membrane that is used. Concerning MR-CM, only the choice of HD membrane is important.

Protective effects of dietary nasunin on paraquat-induced oxidative stress in rats

The preventive effects of nasunin (delphinidin-3-[4-p-coumaroyl-rhamnosyl(1-->6)glucosid e]-5-glucoside) on paraquat-induced oxidative stress were determined in rats. Decreased food intake and body weight gain and increased lung weight by feeding the rats a diet containing paraquat were clearly suppressed by supplementing nasunin to the paraquat diet. Paraquat feeding increased the concentration of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) in liver lipids and the atherogenic index, and decreased the liver triacylglycerol level. These effects were also suppressed by supplementing nasunin to the paraquat diet. In addition, catalase activity in the liver mitochondrial fraction was markedly decreased by feeding the paraquat diet, this decrease being partially suppressed by supplementing the paraquat diet with nasunin. These results suggest that nasunin acted preventively against the oxidative stress in vivo that may have been due to active oxygen species formed through the action of paraquat.

Chromosomal diagnosis in each individual blastomere of 5- to 10-cell bovine embryos derived from in vitro fertilization

Chromosomal normality and sex were diagnosed in each blastomere of bovine embryos derived from in vitro fertilization (IVF). Bovine embryos developing to the 5- to 10-cell stage were separated into individual blastomeres with 0.5% protease. After treatment with 100 ng/mL vinblastine sulfate for 8 to 10 h, they were prepared for chromosome samples. In total, 33 bovine embryos and 185 blastomeres were examined. Chromosomal normality was analyzed in 43.8% (81/185) of the blastomeres and 60.6% (20/33) of the embryos; while chromosomal anomalies were found in 16 (80%, 16/20) of the embryos, 5 haploid embryos and 11 mosaic (n/2n) embryos. Mosaicism characteristic of the opposite sex in X-and Y-chromosomes was found in 2 haploid embryos, and that of a Y-chromosome and of XX chromosomes in 1 n/2n embryo. Various sex-chromosome compositions were also observed in the other 10 chromosomal mosaic n/2n embryos.

A novel glycosylphosphatidyl inositol-anchored protein on human leukocytes: a possible role for regulation of neutrophil adherence and migration

We report here a novel glycosylphosphatidyl-inositol (GPI)-anchored glycoprotein on human leukocytes. Treatment of neutrophils with a mAb (3H9) to this molecule sequentially up-regulates and down-regulates beta2 integrin-dependent adhesion of these cells as well as their transendothelial migration in vitro. In addition, this mAb simultaneously modulates the avidity of beta2 integrin for its ligand, iC3b, with kinetics similar to those observed in 3H9 modulation of neutrophil adherence. This mAb also induces beta2 integrin-dependent cytoskeletal remodeling. This novel GPI-anchored protein (GPI-80) is highly homologous with Vanin-1, a recently reported GPI-anchored protein that is expressed on perivascular thymic stromal cells and is involved in thymus homing in mice. The finding that both GPI-80 and Vanin-1 are 40% homologous with human biotinidase suggests the existence of a biotinidase superfamily of molecules that may be involved in the regulation of leukocyte trafficking.

Psychosomatic symptoms of Japanese working women and their need for stress management

This study was conducted to clarify Japanese female workers' psychosomatic symptoms including women-specific complaints and their need for stress management as part of occupational health services (OHS). In 1997, a survey was conducted in which a questionnaire was sent to 1108 full-time female workers. The response rate was 92.1%. They classified their own health status excellent (26.0%), good (60.4%), fair (9.6%), or bad (1.6%). They also reported their irritability (25.3%) and depression (15.6%). There were high rates of complaints of eye discomfort (53.6%), fatigue (44.1%), headache (43.0%), and menstrual pain (32.5%). Such symptoms were associated with irritability or depression. Amount of overtime works, marital status in the 30-44 age group, the presence of children were found to be important factors in determining health status. Regarding the needs for occupational health services, 22.2% of respondents answered they needed mental health management (MHM). Compared with other services, such as management of lifestyle diseases, gynecological diseases, cancer screenings and counseling on nutrition and exercise, the need for MHM was low. The preferred personnel were female doctors and nurses. Workers who performed frequent overtime work had a greater need for MHM. The most preferred means of receiving MHM was personal counseling by doctors (not psychologists) and nurses.

Rapid intestinal ischaemia-reperfusion injury is suppressed in genetically mast cell-deficient Ws/Ws rats

Ws/Ws rats have a small deletion of the c-kit gene, and are deficient in both mucosal and connective tissue-type mast cells. In this study, the role of mucosal type mast cells (MMC) in the development of intestinal ischaemia-reperfusion injury was investigated in Ws/Ws rats. Autoperfused segments of the jejunum were exposed to 60 min of ischaemia, followed by reperfusion for various time periods. The epithelial permeability was then assessed by the 51Cr-EDTA clearance rate. In the control (+/+) rats, the maximal increase in mucosal permeability was achieved at 45 min of reperfusion. In contrast, this increase was significantly and potently attenuated in the Ws/Ws rats. Mucosal alkaline phosphatase activity decreased in the control (+/+) rats, but was not altered in the Ws/Ws rats. There were no differences in mucosal myeloperoxidase activity, indicating that granulocytes did not contribute to tissue injury. These results provide direct evidence for the role of mast cells in the pathogenesis of intestinal ischaemia-reperfusion injury.

Appearance of normal brain maturation on fluid-attenuated inversion-recovery (FLAIR) MR images

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Fluid-attenuated inversion-recovery (FLAIR) MR imaging is widely accepted for brain diagnoses, though to our knowledge no description of the MR FLAIR appearance of the normal infantile brain has been published. The purpose of this study was to investigate the appearance of normal infantile brain maturation on FLAIR MR images.

METHODS

FLAIR images were obtained in 52 children between the ages of 1 day and 4 years who had clinically suspected brain disease but no neurologic abnormality or growth retardation. T1- and T2-weighted images were also obtained in all the children, and these images were compared with the FLAIR sequences for the appearance of brain maturation. A grading system for the differences in signal intensity between gray and white matter on FLAIR images was introduced to make detailed profiles of maturation in each brain region, including the posterior limb of the internal capsule, the cerebellar peduncle, the frontal deep white matter, the occipital deep white matter, and the centrum semiovale. These grades were plotted against patients' ages.

RESULTS

On the FLAIR images, the myelinated white matter, including the cerebellar peduncle and the posterior limb of the internal capsule, showed high signal intensity relative to gray matter at birth. Thereafter, the white matter lost signal intensity with time and showed low signal intensity at 50 weeks and beyond. The unmyelinated white matter, including the frontal deep white matter, the occipital deep white matter, and the centrum semiovale, showed low signal intensity at birth. The white matter showed high signal intensity at 20 to 30 weeks, and low signal intensity again at 100 to 160 weeks and after.

CONCLUSION

The dynamics of brain myelination can be accurately delineated and evaluated on FLAIR images without other spin-echo (SE) sequences. The FLAIR appearance of infantile white matter can be divided into two phases, reflecting development of the myelination process: the first phase is similar to that seen on SE T1-weighted images and the second phase is similar to that seen on SE T2-weighted images.

Increased growth of Bifidobacterium and Eubacterium by germinated barley foodstuff, accompanied by enhanced butyrate production in healthy volunteers

Germinated barley foodstuff (GBF) derived from the aleurone and scutellum fractions of germinated barley mainly consists of low-lignified hemicellulose and glutamine-rich protein. GBF improves the proliferation of intestinal epithelial cells and defecation, through the bacterial production of short chain fatty acids (SCFA), especially butyrate. In this study we investigated the mechanism of production of butyrate by microflora in humans and in vitro. Daily administration of 9 g GBF for 14 successive days significantly increased fecal butyrate content. Fecal Bifidobacterium and Eubacterium were also significantly increased by GBF administration in healthy volunteers. Ten anaerobic micro-organisms selected from intestinal microflora were cultured in vitro in the medium containing GBF as a sole carbon source (GBF medium). After a 3-day incubation, 7 strains (Bifidobacterium breve, Bifidobacterium longum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei subsp. casei, Bacteroides ovatus, Clostridium butyricum, and Eubacterium limosum) lowered the medium pH producing SCFA. Eubacterium grown together with Bifidobacterium in GBF medium efficiently produced butyrate. On the other hand, GBF changed the intestinal microflora and increased probiotics such as Bifidobacterium in the intestinal tract. As a result, butyrate was produced by the mutual action of Eubacterium and Bifidobacterium. This butyrate is considered to enhance the proliferation of colonic epithelial cells.

Mapping of five subtype genes for muscarinic acetylcholine receptor to mouse chromosomes

Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in mammals consist of five subtypes (M1-M5) encoded by distinct genes. They are widely expressed throughout the body and play a variety of roles in the peripheral and central nervous systems. Although their pharmacological properties have been studied extensively in vitro, colocalization of the multiple subtypes in each tissue and lack of subtype-specific ligands have hampered characterization of the respective subtypes in vivo. We have mapped mouse genomic loci for all five genes (Chrm1-5) by restriction fragment length variant (RFLV) analyses in interspecific backcross mice. Chrm1, Chrm2, and Chrm3 were mapped to chromosome (Chr) 19, 6, and 13, respectively. Both Chrm4 and Chrm5 were mapped to Chr 2. Although a comparison of their map positions with other mutations in their vicinities suggested a possibility that the El2 (epilepsy 2) allele might be a mutation in Chrm5, sequencing analyses of the Chrm5 gene in the El2 mutant mice did not support such a hypothesis.

Endoscopic removal with clipping for colonic lipomas

Endoscopic removal of colonic lipoma of 2 cm in size or more is not widely used because of the risk of complications which are a hemorrhage and a perforation associated with endoscopic resection. We report here safety endoscopic removal using a bipolar snare and clipping the mucosa of the defective region in three cases with large colonic lipoma. We consider that this technique enhanced the safety of the endoscopic procedure.

Peritoneal serous papillary carcinoma: radiological appearance

BACKGROUND

The radiological appearance of peritoneal serous papillary carcinoma (PSPC) is described.

METHODS

Three cases of PSPC were analyzed retrospectively with regard to the radiological appearance and histopathological features.

RESULTS

All three patients were women, aged 44-71 years. Massive ascites and a greater omentum tumor were observed on computed tomography in all patients. Double-contrast enema performed in one patient showed irregularity on the upper aspect of the transverse colon. Radiological examinations excluded primary tumors in both gastrointestinal and genital organs in all patients. Histological diagnosis was made from the surgical specimen in two patients and from an autopsy specimen in one patient. All patients had a large omental tumor involving the transverse colon, but the ovaries were not involved or only minimally involved on the surface. Serum CA125 was markedly elevated, and immunohistochemical staining for CA125 was positive within the tumor cell cytoplasm in all three patients.

CONCLUSION

PSPC cannot be diagnosed from radiological findings alone because of its similarity to metastatic peritoneal carcinomatosis and peritoneal mesothelioma. Marked elevation of serum CA125 may help with PSPC diagnosis. Response to treatment is promising, and exploratory laparotomy is thus justified when a patient shows characteristic radiological findings and high CA125 level.

[Analysis of the factors involving in the success or failure of home infusion therapy (HIT)]

A survey was conducted from April through September, 1997, of 24 hospitalized terminal lung cancer patients connected to IVH and CSC, for whom the possibility of release from hospital was considered, and of their families. A comparative survey was made between patients who accepted HIT and those who did not. No difference was found between the groups by age, sex, or disease stage, nor was there a difference in physical symptoms such as pain and respiratory difficulty. However, the percentage of patients who were told the name of their disease was significantly higher in the group switched to HIT, 3 of whom were even given prognoses. There was no difference in the percentage of patients who lived with their families, although there was a higher percentage in the HIT group whose spouses also lived with the family. Nineteen of the 24 patients wished to return home, but 8 of those patients were not released from hospital for such reasons as the patient not wanting to be a burden on his or her family or the family's lack of ability to provide care. It was found that important factors in urging home care for the terminal cancer patient were whether or not the patient was told the name of his or her disease, and whether or not the patient lived with a healthy spouse.

Rat zona pellucida glycoproteins: molecular cloning and characterization of the three major components

The zona pellucida (ZP), the extracellular glycocalyx that surrounds the oocyte, is well known to mediate homologous gamete interaction. In a previous study from our laboratories, we reported the qualitative characterization of the rat ZP. The ZP in this species, like the mouse, hamster, and human, was found to contain three glycoproteins, namely rZP1, rZP2, and rZP3 (Araki et al. [1992] Biol Reprod 46:912-919). In this study, cDNAs encoding whole rat ZP major components have been isolated and characterized. A rat ovary cDNA library was screened with the mouse ZP3 and ZP2 cDNA probes, respectively. For rZP1 cDNA cloning, cDNAs generated using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and rapid amplification of 5' and 3' cDNA ends, were isolated and sequenced. The rZP3 cDNA showed 1338 bp with a coding region containing 1272 bp, that translates into 424 amino acids. The total translation of rZP3 peptide has a molecular weight of 45,820, containing six potential N-glycosylation sites and 75 Ser/Thr residues, possible O-glycosylation sites. The amino acid sequence derived from the cDNA sequence shares high sequence homologies to mouse (90%), hamster (78%), and human (65%) ZP3 (ZPC) glycoproteins, indicating that the rat and mouse ZP3 have quite a conserved amino acid sequence, including the potential glycosylation sites. The total transcript of the rZP2 was 2154 nucleotides and the largest open reading frame was 695 amino acids. This would translate into a protein of 78.4 kDa. In the case of rZP1, the cDNA clone consisted of 1960 bp, and the coding region contained 1851 bp translating into 617 amino acids. Significant homologies were observed between rZP2 and ZPA family from various mammalian species. The rZP1 also showed a sequence homology to mouse ZP1, known as a mouse orthologue of ZPB family, suggesting that the rZP2 and rZP1 are members of ZPA and ZPB families, respectively. The message distributions for each zona components were limited within the ovary and the signal was detectable in the growing oocytes. The present results will further our understanding of the structure of rat zona components and lead to a better understanding of species-specificity observed during sperm-egg interaction.

Adhesion of adhesive resin to dental precious metal alloys. Part I. New precious metal alloys with base metals for resin bonding

New dental precious metal alloys for resin bonding without alloy surface modification were developed by adding base metals (In, Zn, or Sn). Before this, binary alloys of Au, Ag, Cu, or Pd containing In, Zn, or Sn were studied for water durability and bonding strength with 4-META resin. The adhesion ability of the binary alloys was improved by adding In equivalent to 15% of Au content, Zn equivalent to 20% of Ag content, and In, Zn, or Sn equivalent to 5% of Cu content. There was no addition effect of the base metals on Pd, however 15% of In addition improved adhesion with Pd-based alloys containing equi-atomic % of Cu and Pd. The alloy surfaces were analyzed by XPS and showed that oxides such as In2O3, ZnO, or SnO play an important role in improving the adhesive ability of the alloys.

Factors affecting dimensional instability of alginate impressions during immersion in the fixing and disinfectant solutions

To clarify the factors determining the dimensional stability of alginate impressions during immersion in disinfectant and fixing solution, the weight change of impressions in solutions of glutaraldehyde (GA), NaClO, Na2SO4, K2SO4, CaCl2, and ZnSO4 was measured. In the nonelectrolytic solution, GA, the weight decreased in proportion to concentration, possibly due to the gradient of osmotic pressure between the impression and solution. In monovalent metallic salt solutions the weight change decreased with increased concentration. Especially at lower concentrations the rate of weight loss was high. A chemical action of the solution might also be involved, in addition to the osmotic pressure difference. The weight loss in divalent metallic salt solutions was greater than in monovalent solutions, implicating crosslinking reactions between the impression and solution.

Ovarian fibroma of high signal intensity on T2-weighted MR image

It has been reported that ovarian fibromas display low signal intensity on both T1- and T2-weighted magnetic resonance images. We report an ovarian fibroma exhibiting low signal intensity on a T1-weighted image and high signal intensity on a T2-weighted image. Microscopically pronounced myxomatous changes were shown in the fibroma. The signal intensity of ovarian fibromas differs with the degree of myxomatous change.

Intraductal ultrasonography for treatment of Tis and T1 colorectal cancer

The aim of the study was to determine the treatment for Tis and T1 colorectal cancer and the depth of cancer invasion which was examined preoperatively by intraductal ultrasonography (IDUS) using a 20 MHz high frequency thin sonoprobe. IDUS was performed on 62 patients with Tis and T1 colorectal cancer using 20 MHz radial images. The tumors imaged by IDUS were classified into 3 groups according to the degree of lesions in the 5 layers of the large intestinal wall: Tis showing no changes in the third layer, T1 with slight invasion in which the ruptured region in the third layer occupied less than 50% of the tumor diameter, and T1 with massive invasion in which the ruptured region in the third layer occupied more than 50% of the tumor diameter. The correct preoperative diagnosis of the depth of the lesions was obtained in 21 of the 23 patients with Tis (91.3%), in 18 of the 21 patients with T1 with slight invasion (85.7%), and in 8 of the 11 patients with T1 with massive invasion (72.7%). In conclusion, IDUS can be used for endoscopic examination of the large intestinal cancer to judge whether local treatment or not.

Transsacral rectopexy for complete rectal prolapse

A prospective study was carried out to analyze the clinical and functional results of transsacral rectopexy with a DEXON mesh in the elderly or poor risk patients with complete rectal prolapse. Six patients with complete rectal prolapse were operated from 1994 to 1996. All patients could be traced for examination with anorectal manometry and defecography. None of the patients had recurrence for the longest three years. In postoperative clinical symptoms, fecal incontinence score recovered from the preoperative mean score of 3.8 to the postoperative 1.2 and constipation was improved in 4 out of 5 cases (80.0%). Straining anorectal angle (S-ARA) by defecography improved from the preoperative value of 120.6 +/- 6.9 degrees to the postoperative value of 98.5 +/- 3.5 degrees (p < 0.05) and the perineal descent (PD) improved from the preoperative value of 16.2 +/- 2.5 cm to the postoperative value 8.1 +/- 1.3 cm (p < 0.05). Maximal resting pressure (MRP) increased from the preoperative value of 20.5 +/- 3.7 cmH2O to the postoperative value of 40.5 +/- 4.8 cmH2O (p < 0.05). Transsacral rectopexy with DEXON mesh for complete rectal prolapse is useful as this technique is simple to conduct, can be applied to the elderly or poor risk patients, replaces rectal prolapse, improves defecation troubles and recovers fecal incontinence.

Germinated barley foodstuff increases fecal volume and butyrate production at relatively low doses and relieves constipation in humans

Germinated barley foodstuff (GBF), derived from the aleurone layer, scutellum and germ of germinated barley, contains a large quantity of fermentable dietary fibers, especially hemicellulose. GBF was given to 9 healthy volunteers in a dose of 9 g of GBF per day for 10 consecutive days, and subsequently 18 g of GBF for another 10 days. As a control, no GBF was given for 3 days before administration of GBF (control period). Fecal weight, water content and short chain fatty acid content were measured before and during the last 3 days of each experimental period. Feeding of GBF significantly increased the fecal butyrate content as well as fecal weight at both dose-levels (9 and 18 g/day), compared with those during the control period. Daily administration of 9 g GBF induced the maximum level of defecation in humans. Relatively mild but chronic constipated volunteers (n = 16) were administered 9 g of GBF daily for 14 days. In this experiment, the condition of defecation (frequency, volume) was estimated by a questionnaire survey. GBF significantly improved defecation within a short period without severe adverse effects. No major abnormalities in laboratory findings were found in hematologic and urinary analyses. In conclusion, daily administration of 9 g GBF was effective for improving defecation in healthy but constipated humans. GBF is a highly safe and effective foodstuff for improving defecation.