'Adenomyomatous' hamartoma of the lung

A 53-year-old man presented with a lung mass. A segmentectomy of the left lung was performed, and pathologic examination revealed an unusual hamartomatous lesion in the lung, named 'adenomyomatous hamartoma.' The tumor was composed of multicysts lined by ciliated pseudostratified bronchial epithelium and smooth muscle overgrowth. The authors have proposed that this is a distinct entity that has not previously been described in the English literature.

Molecular basis for the p phenotype. Identification of distinct and multiple mutations in the alpha 1,4-galactosyltransferase gene in Swedish and Japanese individuals

p phenotype individuals lack both P(k) (Gb3) and P (Gb4) glycolipid antigens of the P blood group system. To explore the molecular basis for this phenotype, DNA sequences of Gb3 synthase (alpha1, 4-galactosyltransferase; alpha1,4Gal-T) in six p phenotype individuals from Japan and Sweden were analyzed. A missense mutation P251L and a nonsense mutation W261stop in three and one Japanese indivuiduals, respectively, and missense mutations M183K and G187D in one each of two Swedish p individuals were found, indicating that p individuals from Japan and Sweden have distinct and multiple homozygous point mutations in the coding region. In the function analysis of the mutated alpha1,4Gal-Ts by the transfection of the expression vectors, P251L and M183K mutations showed complete loss of enzyme function, and W261stop and G187D mutations resulted in the marginal activity. BLAST analysis of homologous sequences of alpha1, 4Gal-T revealed that three residues, Met(183), Gly(187), and Pro(251), at which missense mutations were found, were highly conserved among all species examined, suggesting their importance for the function of alpha1,4Gal-T.

[Psoas abscess caused by nephrolithiasis with perirenal abscess complicated with pleural effusion]

Left pleural effusion was found in a 60-year-old woman in whom chest radiography performed during a physical check up revealed no abnormality. Abdominal CT scanning revealed an abscess in the left psoas muscle. The psoas abscess was eliminated temporarily by drainage under ultrasonographic guidance and by the administration of antibiotics, but recurred one month later. A stag-horn renal stone considered to have caused the psoas abscess by formation of a perirenal abscess was eliminated by left nephrectomy. It is suggested tentatively that the psoas abscess might have been the cause of the pleural effusion.

In vivo subcellular elemental dynamics in liver graft: With special reference to effect of non-selective endothelin receptor antagonist, TAK-044, on the graft injury

Background: No data are available concerning the in vivo subcellular dynamics of elements in liver grafts and the effect of endothelin receptor antagonist, TAK-044, against graft injury. Methods: Liver transplantation was performed in porcine under active veno-venous bypass. The grafts stored in chilled preservation solution were recirculated following reflush with lactated Ringer's solution with or without TAK-044 (10 mg/kg). Cold and warm ischemic times of the grafts were comparable between the two groups. Elements (Na, K, Cl, Ca, P and S) were measured in three fractions of cytoplasm, mitochondria and nucleus by electron probe X-ray microanalysis for the graft biopsy specimens obtained at various time from donor laparotomy to 1 week after liver grafting. Liver functions also were compared between the two groups. Results: In both groups, concentration of each element changed in parallel among the three subcellular fractions and their changes were less marked in the nucleus. In the control group, there were significant increases in cytoplasmic Na and Cl after portal reperfusion and in cytoplasmic and mitochondrial Ca after hepatic artery reperfusion. These were accompanied by K and mitochondrial S decreases without a statistical significance. In the TAK group, such postreperfusion elemental alterations were significantly suppressed and early deterioration of the liver functions was alleviated, as compared with the control group. Conclusion: A supplemental use of TAK-044 in a rinse solution before reflush contributed to stability of subcellular elements after reperfusion and better preservation of early graft function.

[Percutaneous transluminal septal myocardial ablation combined with permanent dual-chamber pacing in hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy: a case report]

A 74-year-old woman suffering from dyspnea on effort and chest pain (New York Heart Association functional class III) was admitted to our hospital. Echocardiography and left ventriculography showed severe hypertrophy of the left ventricular wall and a severe intraventricular pressure gradient of about 150 mmHg. The diagnosis was hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. The intraventricular pressure gradient was decreased from 157 to 68 mmHg by percutaneous transluminal septal myocardial ablation (PTSMA), but this reduction was not adequate. Thereafter, dual-chamber pacing was additionally performed. The intraventricular pressure gradient was decreased to 26 mmHg with no complication. PTSMA is a certain way to decrease pressure gradient, but has some complications. Permanent dual-chamber pacing also can show the same effect, but is inferior to PTSMA. Combination of these 2 methods succeeded in abolishing the intraventricular pressure gradient with no complication.

Glibenclamide acts as an inhibitor of acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase enzyme

Sulfonylureas are used in the treatment of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Little is known, however, about their effects on cholesterol metabolism. We tested in the present study the effects of glibenclamide (GB) on cholesterol esterification (CE) in macrophage-derived cells. GB inhibited intracellular accumulation of CE induced by acetylated LDL or oxidized LDL in J774 cells, but no such effect on total cholesterol, suggesting that the target of GB was acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT). In the cell-free reconstitution ACAT assay, GB inhibited the ACAT activity with an IC(50) value of 20 microM. Furthermore, GB effectively inhibited the ACAT activity of PMA-stimulated THP-1 cells to the undifferentiated level of THP-1. In the whole-cell ACAT assay using CHO cells overexpressed with ACAT-1 or ACAT-2, GB inhibited the activity of both isozymes with similar potency. Our in vitro data suggest that sulfonylurea could be a potential seed for a new generation of ACAT inhibitors.

Versatile transcription of biphenyl catabolic bph operon in Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes KF707

Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes KF707 possesses a chromosomally encoded bph gene cluster responsible for the catabolism of biphenyl/polychlorinated biphenyls. The gene cluster consists of (orf0)bphA1A2(orf3)bphA3A4BCX0X1X2X3D. We studied the role of orf0 and transcription in the KF707 bph operon. Primer extension analyses revealed that at least as many as six transcriptional initiation sites exist upstream of orf0, bphA1, bphX0, bphX1, and bphD, including two upstream of bphD. The orf0-disruptant failed to grow on biphenyl but accumulated large amounts of the biphenyl ring meta-cleavage yellow compound (2-hydroxy-6-oxo-6-phenylhexa-2, 4-dienoate). Western blot analysis revealed that ORF0 protein is inducibly expressed in KF707 in the presence of biphenyl. Gel shift assay revealed that ORF0 directly binds to the orf0 operator region. This binding was greatly enhanced by addition of the biphenyl ring meta-cleavage yellow compound. These results indicated that orf0, bphA1A2(orf3)bphA3A4BC and bphX0X1X2X3D are independently transcribed, and that ORF0 protein belonging to the GntR family is involved in the regulation of the bph operon in KF707 and is absolutely required for the expression of orf0 and bphX0X1X2X3D.

Correlated gene expression between beta-1,4-galactosyltransferase V and N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase V in human cancer cell lines

Since our previous study showed that the gene expression level of beta-1,4-galactosyltransferase (beta-1,4-GalT) V is only increased in mouse NIH3T3 transformant and that beta-1,4-GalT V preferentially galactosylates the GlcNAcbeta1 --> 6Man branch of oligosaccharides [Shirane et al. (1999) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 265, 434-438], whether its gene expression is correlated with malignant transformation was investigated. Northern blot analysis of beta-1, 4-GalTs I, II, III, IV, V, and VI and N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase (GlcNAcT)V in human cancer cell lines showed that the gene expression levels of beta-1,4-GalT V but not other beta-1,4-GalTs are strongly correlated with those of GlcNAcT V whose activity was shown to increase by malignant transformation. These results indicate that beta-1,4-GalT V is involved in the galactosylation of highly branched oligosaccharides characteristic of malignantly transformed cells.

Enhancement of rat hypoglossal nerve regeneration by chitin sheet plus gangliosides

The effects of chitin sheet interposition with and without brain gangliosides on the regeneration of hypoglossal nerve fibres was studied in the rat following resection of a 5mm length of the nerve. At 10 weeks after operation, the number of horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-labelled motor neurones, indicative of the axonal repair process, on the side treated with chitin and gangliosides was higher than on the control side (where 5mm of the nerve was simply resected). The ratios of HRP-positive neurones in the right hypoglossal nucleus (treated side)/left hypoglossal nucleus (intact side) was 0 in the 5mm-resected group, 53% in the chitin-grafted group, 88% in the ganglioside (0.2 microg)-injected group, 90% in the ganglioside (2 microg)-injected group, 91% in the chitin with ganglioside (0.2mg)-injected group, 91% in the chitin with ganglioside (2 microg)-injected group and 85% in the autograft group, respectively. There were significant differences between the 5 mm-resected group and chitin-grafted group, ganglioside-injected group, chitin with ganglioside group and autograft group, and between the chitin-grafted group and ganglioside-injected, chitin with ganglioside and autograft groups (P< 0.005, respectively). Our results indicated that the use of chitin and gangliosides stimulated the regeneration of severed motor nerve fibres. These findings suggest that chitin and gangliosides might be therapeutically useful for treatment of neuronal degeneration.

Implantation of ultraflex nitinol stents in malignant tracheobronchial stenoses

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To assess the uncovered Ultraflex nitinol stent (Boston Scientific; Natick, MA) for its efficacy and safety.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PATIENTS

Between October 1997 and October 1998, we carried out a prospective multicenter study at six hospitals in Japan. Fifty-four Ultraflex stents were inserted in 34 patients with inoperable malignant airway stenosis using a flexible and/or a rigid bronchoscope under fluoroscopic and endoscopic visualization.

MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS

Clinical, endoscopic examination, and pulmonary function on days 1, 30, and 60 after stent implantation showed improvement. In 19 patients (56%), stent implantation was performed as an emergency procedure because of life-threatening tracheobronchial obstruction. Immediate relief of dyspnea was achieved in 82% of the patients. The dyspnea index improved significantly after implantation (before vs. days 1, 30, and 60; p<0.001). Significant improvements were observed in obstruction of airway diameter (81+/-15% before vs. 14+/-17% on day 1, 12+/-12% on day 30, and 22+/-28% on day 60; p<0.001). Vital capacity (VC), FEV(1), and peak expiratory flow (PEF) increased significantly after stent implantation: before vs immediately after VC (p<0.01), FEV(1) (p<0.001), and PEF (p<0.05). The main complications were tumor ingrowth (24%) and tumor overgrowth (21%). After coagulation with an Nd-YAG laser or argon plasma coagulation, mechanical coring out using the bevel of a rigid bronchoscope was necessary in patients showing tumor ingrowth or overgrowth. Removal and reposition were possible in case of misplacement. There were no problems with migration and retained secretions. The median survival time of patients was 3 months. The 1-year survival rate was 25.4%.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study of the Ultraflex nitinol stent, we have demonstrated that patients were relieved from dyspnea, which contributed to improved quality of life, with minimal complications. This stent can be used safely, even in the subglottic region. Owing to its excellent flexibility and biocompatibility, the stent is also indicated in certain complicated situations, eg, narrow stenosis, hourglass stenosis, curvilinear stenosis, bilateral mainstem bronchial stenoses, and long stenosis of varying diameters.

[Is myocardial impairment in idiopathic dilated hypertrophic cardiomyopathy reversible by carvedilol?: a case report]

A 64-year-old woman with dilated hypertrophic cardiomyopathy was treated by beta-blocker, because of recurrent episodes of congestive heart failure. Carvedilol administration was started with a dose of 2.5 mg/day, and gradually increased to the dose of 20 mg/day 3 months later. Her functional class recovered from New York Heart Association stage IV to stage II. Thallium-201 scintigraphy demonstrated advanced myocardial damage: defect/low perfusion in the anteroseptal, infero-posterior and apical regions. Iodine-123 beta-methyl-p-iodophenyl-pentadecanoic acid scintigraphy confirmed these findings. However, the scintigraphic abnormalities had reversed to near normal perfusion and metabolism similar to those of stunned myocardium after an ischemic episode. This case demonstrates the recovery of myocardial impairment during beta-blocker therapy in a patient with dilated hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Lanoconazole, a new imidazole antimycotic compound, protects MAIDS mice against encephalitis caused by Cryptococcus neoformans

The protective effect of a new antifungal compound, lanoconazole, against Cryptococcus neoformans infection in C57BL/6 mice exposed to LP-BM5 murine leukaemia virus (MuLV) (MAIDS mice) was investigated. Mice were infected intratracheally with C. neoformans, strain 613D, 40 days after infection with LP-BM5 MuLV. They were treated orally with various doses of lanoconazole or with fluconazole 10 mg/kg (a positive control) once daily beginning 1 day after the fungal infection and continuing until the end of the experimental period. The number of C. neoformans cells in the lungs and brains of infected mice was determined. Lanoconazole and fluconazole had a similar inhibitory effect on the growth of C. neoformans in the brains and lungs of normal mice. Whereas lanoconazole inhibited the growth of C. neoformans in the brains and lungs of MAIDS mice, the pathogen grew in the brains of MAIDS mice treated with fluconazole. Lanoconazole reduced the number of C. neoformans in the brains of normal mice treated with a type 2 cytokine mixture, whereas fluconazole did not. A predominance of type 2 T-cell responses was demonstrated in MAIDS mice. Splenic T cells from MAIDS mice, but not those from normal mice, released interleukins 4 and 10 into the culture medium when they were stimulated with an anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody. These results suggest that lanoconazole may have the potential to inhibit the growth of C. neoformans in AIDS patients with a predominance of type 2 T-cell responses.

Expression of DCC protein in colorectal tumors and its relationship to tumor progression and metastasis

A loss of heterozygosity (LOH) at the DCC gene locus was detected in colorectal tumors, and this LOH might be related to metastasis. The aim of this study was to determine DCC protein expression in colorectal cancer and to evaluate its prognostic value. Allelic loss of the DCC locus was observed in 16 of the 23 patients (66.7%). In all 16 patients with LOH, DCC expression was decreased in the cancer tissue compared with the adjacent normal mucosa. All 23 colorectal tumors had decreased expression of this protein relative to the adjacent normal colonic mucosa in Western blot analysis. The levels of DCC protein were significantly lower in cancer tissues than in adenoma tissues. Decreased DCC protein expression was also observed by immunohistochemistry in the colorectal cancer cases. There were significant correlations between DCC protein expression and histologic type, venous invasion, and hematogenous metastasis. Patients with DCC-protein-negative tumors had a greater relative risk of recurrence compared with those whose tumors were DCC protein-positive. The 5-year survival rate was 91.0% in patients with DCC-protein-positive tumors, and 58.8% in those with DCC-protein-negative tumors; these differences between the two groups of patients were significant (p < 0.01). In multivariate analysis using the Cox regression model, DCC protein expression emerged as an independent prognostic indicator. These findings suggested that a decrease in DCC expression may have an important role in the progression of colorectal cancers and may be a biologic marker of prognostic significance.

Effects of chronic neutral endopeptidase inhibition in rats with cyclosporine-induced hypertension

OBJECTIVE

Cyclosporine (CysA), a potent immunosuppressant, is associated with hypertension and nephrotoxicity. Neutral endopeptidase (NEP) degrades vasoactive peptides, including the natriuretic peptides and endothelin-1 (ET-1). We conducted the present study to determine whether or not the NEP inhibitor, ecadotril, prevents cyclosporine-induced hypertension and to clarify the mechanisms responsible for the hypotensive effects of ecadotril.

DESIGN AND METHODS

We studied the chronic effects of ecadotril (30 mg/kg per day) on blood pressure; the production of ET-1 and C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP); endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity; and the expression of messenger RNA (mRNA), for each substance in blood vessels of CysA-induced hypertensive rats.

RESULTS

CysA (25 mg/kg per day) given for 4 weeks increased the blood pressure from 116 +/- 14 mmHg to 159 +/- 15 mmHg, in rats. This increase was blunted by the co-administration of ecadotril (blood pressure: 134 +/- 14 mmHg). CysA increased plasma NEP activity. CysA increased the production of ET-1 and the expression of ET-1 mRNA without affecting CNP synthesis and endothelin converting enzyme (ECE)-1 mRNA expression. CysA decreased the eNOS activity and eNOS mRNA levels. Addition of the NEP inhibitor decreased the synthesis of ET-1 and ET-1 mRNA levels and increased the eNOS activity and the eNOS mRNA levels. Vascular CNP synthesis and ECE-1 mRNA expression in rats treated with ecadotril did not differ from those in rats treated with CysA and ecadotril.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that chronic NEP inhibition may prevent the CysA-induced hypertension by decreasing local ET-1 synthesis and partly increasing vascular nitric oxide production.

[Depression of serum pyridoxal levels in theophylline-related seizures]

In order to study whether a theophylline-related seizure is caused by a decrease in serum vitamin B6, serum pyridoxal (PAL) levels were measured in children with bronchial asthma treated with theophylline. The serum PAL levels of asthmatic children (n = 31) treated with theophylline were significantly lower than those of control subjects (n = 21). Moreover, we evaluated PAL levels in four subjects within twenty-four hours after a seizure with or without fever. The level was low in three of the four. These results suggest that the decrease in PAL levels caused by theophylline may lower the seizure threshold.

Analysis of the role of egg integrins in sperm-egg binding and fusion

Sperm-egg fusion is believed to be mediated via specific molecular interactions. Integrin alpha6beta1 is a strong candidate for a sperm receptor on the egg plasma membrane. However, the ability of the egg integrin alpha6beta1 to interact with molecules on intact sperm has not yet been proven. In this report, possible involvement of integrin alpha6beta1 in sperm-egg interactions was examined by biochemical and immunocytochemical analyses. To identify egg molecules that specifically interact with sperm, we first incubated sperm with biotin-labeled egg surface proteins. Under this condition, solubilized proteins from eggs inhibited sperm-egg fusion. Western blot analysis under reducing conditions indicated that a major-labeled band of 135 kDa bound to sperm. An immunodepletion experiment using the anti-integrin alpha6 antibody GoH3 indicated that the 135 kDa egg surface molecule that bound to sperm was the integrin alpha6 subunit. To investigate the potential involvement of integrin alpha6beta1 in sperm-egg fusion, we next examined the localization of integrin alpha6 and beta1 subunits before and after fertilization by confocal laser microscopy. At an early stage of sperm-egg fusion, the integrin alpha6 and beta1 subunits were accumulated at the sperm binding site. The frequency of cluster formation was closely related to that of sperm-egg fusion, indicating that integrin receptors are accumulated by sperm destined for fusion. Taken together, these results strongly suggest that the integrin alpha6beta1 is involved in sperm-egg binding leading to fusion via direct association of the integrin alpha6 with sperm.

Alteration of tumor phenotypes of B16 melanoma after genetic remodeling of the ganglioside profile

Gangliosides have been thought to be tumor markers of various neuroectoderm-derived cancers. However, their roles in malignant phenotypes of cancer cells are not well understood. We have performed the remodeling of ganglioside profiles of mouse melanoma B16 (B78 subline) by introducing GM2/GD2 synthase cDNA, and analyzed the phenotypic changes such as cell morphology, growth, adhesion and c-fos gene expression. Although newly expressed GM2 was clearly detected, GM2-positive transfectant cells showed rather reduced growth rates in vivo and in vitro, lower expression levels of c-fos gene and increased levels of cell adhesion to extracellular matrices compared to control cells. These results suggested that GM2 is involved in the regulation of cell-cell or cell-extracellular matrix interaction, and negatively control cell proliferation.

Degradation of human Aurora2 protein kinase by the anaphase-promoting complex-ubiquitin-proteasome pathway

Human Aurora2 was originally identified by its close homology to yeast IPL1 and fly aurora, which are key regulators of chromosome segregation and a family of serine/threonine kinases. Here we demonstrate that the Aurora2 protein is degraded rapidly after G2/M phase release in mammalian cells. Aurora2 protein has a rapid turnover rate with a half-life of approximately 2 h. In eukaryotic cells, the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway is the major mechanism for the targeted degradation of unstable proteins. The treatment of mammalian cells with proteasome inhibitors blocks Aurora2 degradation. Furthermore, Aurora2 is polyubiquitinated in vivo and in vitro using anaphase-promoting complex (APC). These results demonstrate that Aurora2 protein is turned over through the APC-ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Oncogene (2000) 19, 2812 - 2819

Engineering dioxygenases for efficient degradation of environmental pollutants

Dioxygenases have recently been engineered to improve their capabilities for environmental pollutant degradation. The techniques used to achieve this include in vitro DNA shuffling and subunit or domain exchanges between dioxygenases of different bacterial origins. Such evolved enzymes acquire novel and enhanced degradation capabilities of xenobiotic compounds, such as polychlorinated biphenyls, trichloroethylene and a variety of aromatic compounds. Hybrid strains in which the evolved genes are integrated into the chromosomal operons exhibit efficient degradation of xenobiotic chlorinated compounds.

Molecular cloning of globotriaosylceramide/CD77 synthase, a glycosyltransferase that initiates the synthesis of globo series glycosphingolipids

The expression cloning of a cDNA for globotriaosylceramide (Gb3)/CD77 synthase (alpha1,4-galactosyltransferase) was achieved using an anti-Gb3 antibody and mouse L cells as a recipient cell line for the transfection. The isolated cDNA clone designated pVTR1 predicted a type II membrane protein with 19 amino acids of cytoplasmic domain, 26 amino acids of transmembrane region, and a catalytic domain with 308 amino acids. Introduction of the cDNA clone into L cells resulted in the neosynthesis of Gb3/CD77, and the extracts of the transfectant cells showed alpha1, 4-galactosyltransferase activity only on lactosylceramide and galactosylceramide. In Northern blotting, a 2.3-kilobase mRNA was strongly expressed in heart, kidney, spleen, and placenta and weakly in colon, small intestine, and brain. Transfection of the cDNA into L cells resulted in the constitution of sensitivity to the apoptosis with Shiga-like toxins (verotoxins). Since Gb3/CD77 synthase initiates the synthesis of globo series glycolipids, the isolation of this cDNA will make possible further investigations into the function of its important series of glycolipids.

Toward new materials for organic electroluminescent devices: synthesis, structures, and properties of a series of 2,5-diaryl-3,4-diphenylsiloles

A series of 2,5-diaryl-3,4-diphenylsiloles, with various mono-substituted phenyl groups, extended pi-conjugated groups, and heteroaryl groups as aryl groups at the 2,5-positions, has been prepared by a one-pot synthesis from bis(phenylethynyl)silanes based on the intramolecular reductive cyclization followed by the palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling with aryl halides. Crystal structures and chemical reactivities toward the alkaline desilylation reactions have been studied on the 2,5-bis(p-mono-substituted phenyl)silole derivatives to elucidate the effects of the p-substituents. The UV-visible absorption and fluorescence spectra, and cyclic voltammetry of the 2,5-diarylsiloles have been systematically evaluated. Their photophysical properties as well as their electronic structures significantly depend on the nature of the 2,5-aryl groups.

[Bronchofiberscopy]

New diagnostic modalities have been used in conjunction with endoscopy for early detection of lung cancer. Videoendoscope is routinely used instead of fiberoptic bronchoscope. Fluorescence diagnosis has been proved to be useful in detecting subtle lesions which might be invisible by conventional endoscopy in central airway. Also, a number of small peripheral lesions has increased by the helical CT. CT guided transbronchial lung as well as needle cytology are indicated for definitive diagnosis of such lesions. Endobronchial Ultrasonography is employed to evaluate the depth of cancer invasion of the bronchus and lymph node swelling around the bronchus. It should be helpful in staging of lung cancer and selecting therapy.

[Molecular biological diagnosis]

Biological behavior of lung cancer was evaluated by basic study. Malignancy Associated Change is the concept that the nuclear features of normal cells in the vicinity of cancer show subtle morphological difference from those of healthy individuals. The difference was recognized by high resolution cytometry and the expression of MAC cells was correlated with the degree of abnormality of chest diseases. Comparative genomic hybridization and fluorescence in situ hybridization were performed to investigate genetic abnormality of. Multiple genetic abnormalities and chromosomal instability showed poor prognosis. Two dimensional electrophoresis was employed to detect the expression of the specific protein of lung cancer. TAO2 was proved to be specific to well differentiated adenocarcinoma. Also, metabolic analysis will be employed for cell analysis.

Use of [123I]-BMIPP myocardial scintigraphy for the clinical evaluation of a fatty-acid metabolism disorder of the right ventricle in chronic respiratory and pulmonary vascular disease

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether or not right ventricle (RV) uptake of iodine-123-labelled-beta-methyliodophenylpentadecanoic acid ([123I]-BMIPP) correlated with the degree of right ventricular pressure overload (RVPO). Myocardial scintigraphy of [123I]-BMIPP and thallium-201 (201Tl) was performed on 46 patients with RVPO. We determined the right ventricle (RV)/left ventricle (LV) ratio = (radioactivities of RV)/(radioactivities of LV), and the RV metabolic index (RVMI) = (RV/LV ratio of [123I]-BMIPP)/(RV/LV ratio of 201Tl). We also evaluated the correlation between RVMI and mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP), and between RVMI and total pulmonary resistance (TPR). Significant correlations were found between the RV/LV ratio of [123I]-BMIPP and mPAP and between the RV/LV ratio of [123I]-BMIPP and TPR. In addition, a significant negative correlation was observed between RVMI and mPAP and between RVMI and TPR. RVMI declined as RVPO increased, suggesting the presence of a fatty-acid metabolism disorder of the RV. Moreover, [123I]-BMIPP myocardial scintigraphy could be useful for evaluating a disorder of the fatty-acid metabolism of the RV with RVPO.

Loss of heterozygosity at 3p24-p25 as a prognostic factor in breast cancer

Differences in clinical course and biological characteristics among breast cancers will probably be explained ultimately by variations in the pattern of genetic alterations among the many genes that can play roles in carcinogenesis. Loss of heterozygosity (LOH) of a particular chromosomal region in a tumor, which presumably indicates loss of a growth-regulating 'tumor-suppressor' gene in that region, may represent a useful marker for postoperative prognosis. In earlier work we observed LOH at chromosomal regions 3p14-p21 and/or 3p24-p25 in a large proportion of breast cancers. To examine whether allelic losses in either of those regions might correlate with postoperative survival, we tested tumors from a cohort of 504 breast cancer patients for allelic losses of microsatellite markers in the relevant portions of chromosome 3p. Five years postoperatively, patients whose tumors had undergone LOH at 3p24-p25 were found to have borne significantly higher risks of mortality than women whose tumors retained both alleles at that locus; i.e. the 5-year mortality rate was 22% among patients with losses at 3p24-p25 vs. 9% with retentions of heterozygosity at that locus (P=0.0014). These data indicate that LOH at 3p24-p25 is a significant predictive factor for postoperative survival of patients who have undergone surgery for breast cancer.

Profile of cytokine production during the inhibition of acute xenograft rejection

Th2 cells have been shown to exert cell-mediated immune responses in vitro; therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the cellular mechanisms of the long-term survival of cardiac xenografts by measuring cytokine production from recipient lymphocytes. Xenogeneic heart grafts from Lewis rats were transplanted into C57BL/6 mice, and the recipients were intravenously injected with H57-597 at the time of transplantation. The production of Th1 cytokines, namely, interleukin (IL)-2 and interferon (IFN)-gamma, and Th2 cytokines, namely, IL-4 and IL-10, from mixed lymphocyte culture cells was assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Splenocytes from the xenograft recipients treated with H57-597 produced significantly lower levels of IL-2, IFN-gamma, IL-4, and IL-10 than those from the untreated recipients, 100 days after transplantation. The findings of this study indicate that the long-term survival of cardiac xenografts induced by H57-597 is mediated by the inhibition of Th0, or both the Th1 and Th2 response.

Successful valve-sparing in aortic root reconstruction under endoscopic guidance

OBJECTIVE

Aortic insufficiency (AI) associated with ascending aneurysm can be corrected by valve-sparing aortic root reconstruction ('David' reimplantation, 'Yacoub' remodeling). Intraoperative endoscopic evaluation in the aortic root may help to clarify the procedure and to access competence of the preserved valve.

METHODS

Following cross-clamping of the ascending aorta, an endoscopy was inserted into the proximal aortic root. Perfusion of crystalloid cardioplegia enabled the visualization of the pressure-loaded valve in the closed position. Conventional macroscopic evaluation would have overlooked valve prolapse because of a release from perfusion pressure. Valve coaptation was imaged directly before and after the valve-sparing procedure. A total of 17 patients underwent aortic root reconstruction under endoscopic guidance. Indications of the valve-sparing were determined with endoscopic findings. The degree of AI before and after the surgery was evaluated by aortography and scored (0, none; 1 trivial; 2, mild; 3, moderate; 4, severe).

RESULTS

Remodeling was employed to eight patients and reimplantation to four. The other five patients were replaced with prosthetic valved-conduit. There was no early and late mortality. Before and after the valve-sparing surgery, grades of AI were significantly reduced. Three patients who underwent reimplantation procedure required late valve replacement for late progression of AI, however, none of the patients with remodeling required reoperation.

CONCLUSION

Introduction of an endoscopy successfully reduced postoperative AI and clarified indications and limitations of valve-sparing aortic root operations.

[Analysis of deep mycoses in autopsy cases]

The deep mycosis in compromised patients is increasing. We examined 40 cases (3%) of the deep mycoses out of 1170 autopsy cases experienced in Saint Luke's International Hospital from 1987 to 1996. The deep mycosis was highly associated with hematologic malignancies(23%) but not with solid tumors(2%). The common mycoses were aspergillosis and candidiasis, which were observed in 27(68%) and 14 (35%) cases, respectively. Most of the patients received broad-spectrum antibiotics, anticancer agents and corticosteroids, and showed granulocytopenia. The symptoms of deep mycoses were non-specific, for example, pyrexia and/or respiratory symptoms. The clinical diagnosis was established in 8 cases and the appropriate antifungal agents were used in 12 cases(30%). Thus, empiric amphotericin-B therapy should be started early in-patients with granulocytopenia, respiratory symptoms, and pyrexia.

Redo Bentall operation for the aortitis syndrome

The aortitis syndrome is a chronic inflammatory arterial disease with an unknown etiology that may present as a variety of vascular lesions. The surgical treatment of aortitis syndrome is associated with many potential difficulties due to the inflammatory nature of the disease. A patient with the aortitis syndrome underwent the Bentall operation for annulo-aortic ectasia and aortic regurgitation 11 years prior to presentation. The operation was not performed during the active inflammatory phase. An anastomotic dehiscence required reoperation, which was performed with Piehler's method. In the aortitis syndrome, the exclusion technique, Carrel patch repair of the coronary arteries and pledgeted anastomoses should be performed for aortic root reconstruction.

A 90-kilobase conjugative chromosomal element coding for biphenyl and salicylate catabolism in Pseudomonas putida KF715

The biphenyl and salicylate metabolic pathways in Pseudomonas putida KF715 are chromosomally encoded. The bph gene cluster coding for the conversion of biphenyl to benzoic acid and the sal gene cluster coding for the salicylate meta-pathway were obtained from the KF715 genomic cosmid libraries. These two gene clusters were separated by 10-kb DNA and were highly prone to deletion when KF715 was grown in nutrient medium. Two types of deletions took place at the region including only the bph genes (ca. 40 kb) or at the region including both the bph and sal genes (ca. 70 kb). A 90-kb DNA region, including both the bph and sal genes (termed the bph-sal element), was transferred by conjugation from KF715 to P. putida AC30. Such transconjugants gained the ability to grow on biphenyl and salicylate as the sole sources of carbon. The bph and sal element was located on the chromosome of the recipient. The bph-sal element in strain AC30 was also highly prone to deletion; however, it could be mobilized to the chromosome of P. putida KT2440 and the two deletion mutants of KF715.

A protein conjugation system in yeast with homology to biosynthetic enzyme reaction of prokaryotes

Protein conjugation, such as ubiquitination, is the process by which the C-terminal glycine of a small modifier protein is covalently attached to target protein(s) through sequential reactions with an activating enzyme and conjugating enzymes. Here we report on a novel protein conjugation system in yeast. A newly identified ubiquitin related modifier, Urm1 is a 99-amino acid protein terminated with glycine-glycine. Urm1 is conjugated to target proteins, which requires the C-terminal glycine of Urm1. At the first step of this reaction, Urm1 forms a thioester with a novel E1-like protein, Uba4. Deltaurm1 and Deltauba4 cells showed a temperature-sensitive growth phenotype. Urm1 and Uba4 show similarity to prokaryotic proteins essential for molybdopterin and thiamin biosynthesis, although the Urm1 system is not involved in these pathways. This is the fifth conjugation system in yeast, following ubiquitin, Smt3, Rub1, and Apg12, but it is unique in respect to relation to prokaryotic enzyme systems. This fact may provide an important clue regarding evolution of protein conjugation systems in eukaryotic cells.

Molecular cloning and expression of mouse GD1alpha/GT1aalpha/GQ1balpha synthase (ST6GalNAc VI) gene

A novel member of the mouse CMP-NeuAc:beta-N-acetylgalactosaminide alpha2,6-sialyltransferase (ST6GalNAc) subfamily, designated ST6GalNAc VI, was identified by BLAST analysis of expressed sequence tags. The sequence of the cDNA clone of ST6GalNAc VI encoded a type II membrane protein with 43 amino acids composing the cytoplasmic domain, 21 amino acids composing the transmembrane region, and 269 amino acids composing the catalytic domain. The predicted amino acid sequence showed homology to the previously cloned ST6GalNAc III, IV, and V, with common amino acid sequences in sialyl motif L and S among these four enzymes. A fusion protein with protein A and extracts from L cells transfected with ST6GalNAc VI in an expression vector showed enzyme activity of alpha2,6-sialyltransferase for GM1b, GT1b, and GD1a but not toward glycoproteins. Thin layer chromatography-immunostaining revealed that the products were GD1alpha, GQ1balpha, and GT1aalpha. Northern blotting revealed that this gene was expressed in a wide range of mouse tissues such as colon, liver, heart, spleen, and brain. It is concluded that this enzyme is a novel sialyltransferase involved in the synthesis of alpha-series gangliosides in the nervous tissues and many other tissues.

Purification and some properties of a tetrodotoxin binding protein from the blood plasma of kusafugu, Takifugu niphobles

A tetrodotoxin binding protein has been purified from the plasma of the puffer fish kusafugu, Takifugu niphobles, through DEAE-cellulose treatment, ammonium sulfate fractionation, Sephadex gelfiltrations and Sephacryl S-200 and Cellulofine A-500 column chromatography. Final purification by HPLC on a TSK G-3000 SL column yielded a protein which showed only a single protein peak. The molecular weight of the protein was estimated to be 116,000 and 91,000 by SDS-PAGE and mass spectrometry, respectively. A blast search on the amino-terminal amino acid sequence of the purified protein revealed that the protein had no homology to any other protein on data base.

GD3 synthase gene expression in PC12 cells results in the continuous activation of TrkA and ERK1/2 and enhanced proliferation

A rat pheochromocytoma cell line (PC12) transfected with ganglioside GD3 synthase gene showed a marked change in the ganglioside profile and enhanced proliferation and no response of neurite extension to nerve growth factor (NGF) stimulation. In these transfectant cells, a continuous phosphorylation of TrkA and the activation of ERK1/2 without NGF treatment were observed. Proliferation inhibition experiments with kinase inhibitors such as herbimycin A, K-252a, and PD98059 revealed that the enhanced proliferation was actually due to the activation of the Ras/MEK/ERK pathway. A TrkA dimer was detected in the GD3 synthase transfectant cells regardless of NGF treatment by cross-linking and immunoblotting. The increased expression of GD1b and GT1b in these transfectant cells might induce the conformational change of TrkA to form a dimer and to be activated continuously. These results may indicate regulatory roles of gangliosides in cell proliferation under physiological and malignant processes.

Cell surface expression of immature H glycoprotein in measles virus-infected cells

Two forms of hemagglutinin (H) protein, one with an apparent molecular mass of 78 kDa (78K H protein) and the other with that of 74 kDa (74K H protein), are present in cells infected with measles virus (MV). We previously observed that only the mature 78K H protein, a completely glycosylated form of the 74K H protein, was expressed on the cell surface of the infected cells. In the present study, we detected transient expression of the 74K H protein on the cell surface of infected cells by pulse-chase studies, although the level of this expression was much lower than that of the 78K H protein. On the cell surface the 74K H protein was present as dimers and sensitive to endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase H digestion. Treatment with brefeldin A, which blocks the transport of membrane and secretory proteins from the endoplasmic reticulum to the Golgi apparatus, inhibited the cell surface expression of the 78K H protein, but not that of the 74K H protein. These data suggest that a part of the MV 74K H proteins could be transported directly to the cell surface - probably via an alternative pathway - without processing to the complex form in the Golgi apparatus.

[Arteriovenous fistula associated with Staphylococcus aureus sepsis in a patient with Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome]

A 58-year-old man with a history of cerebral infarction and bleeding due to duodenal ulcer was admitted with fever and arthralgia. Methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) was isolated from his peripheral blood. Bacteremia with MSSA was diagnosed, and antibiotic therapy was started. However, chest X-ray films and computed tomographic scans disclosed mass shadows in both lungs accompanied by dilated vascular markings. Pulmonary arteriography and magnetic resonance angiography revealed the existence of arteriovenous fistulas in both lungs. Ga scintigraphy disclosed a hot spot in the left lower lobe, consistent with the location of one fistula. This indicated that the fistula might be the focus of MSSA sepsis. Because the patient also had telangiectasia in his gastric mucosa, oral cavity, and nasal cavity, he was given a diagnosis of Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome.

Chemokine- and cytokine-induced expression of endothelin 1 and endothelin-converting enzyme 1 in endothelial cells

BACKGROUND

Endothelin 1 (ET-1) is a product of endothelial and many other cell types that possesses a wide range of actions, including vasoconstriction, bronchoconstriction, and mitogenic activity on smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts. ET-1 release and expression is induced in several disease conditions associated with inflammation and cellular injury.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of alpha-chemokines (IL-8 and melanoma growth-stimulating activator), beta-chemokines (monocyte chemotactic protein 1, macrophage inflammatory protein 1alpha [MIP-1alpha], MIP-1beta, and RANTES), and proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, and IFN-gamma) on the expression of both ET-1 and endothelin-converting enzyme 1 (ECE-1) by human umbilical vein endothelial cells.

METHODS

Subconfluent monolayers of human umbilical vein endothelial cells were incubated with each chemokine individually for 24 hours or with a mixture (cytomix) of TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, and IFN-gamma for 6 and 24 hours.

RESULTS

Incubation with the alpha-chemokines melanoma growth-stimulating activity and IL-8 did not significantly increase ET-1 and ECE-1 messenger (m)RNA expression and had no effect on ET-1 release. Monocyte chemotactic protein 1 exerted the most potent increase in ET-1 and ECE-1 mRNA and ET-1 release among all chemokines studied (P <.05). MIP-1alpha and RANTES exerted a moderate, but significant, increase on the ET system (P <.05). The cytomix resulted in a significant increase in ET-1 and ECE-1 mRNA expression (P <.05).

CONCLUSION

These data demonstrate that, like cytokines, chemokines can induce endothelial ET-1 and ECE-1 in vitro and suggest a possible role for these inflammatory mediators in the induction of the ET system in inflammatory and vascular diseases.

Inhibition by antisense oligonucleotides of plasma membrane Ca(2+) ATPase in vascular endothelial cells

Antisense oligodeoxynucleotides were used to knock down plasma membrane Ca(2+) ATPase, and the role of plasma membrane Ca(2+) ATPase was investigated in human aortic endothelial (HAE) cells. The peak of thapsigargin-evoked intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) was higher in antisense-treated than in untreated cells, but the declining time course was unaffected by the antisense treatment. The declining time was prolonged in both antisense-treated and untreated cells by reducing external Na(+), but the prolongation was more marked in the antisense-treated cells. These results provide the evidence of a functional role of plasma membrane Ca(2+) ATPase, although other mechanisms including Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange may play the primary role in regulating [Ca(2+)](i).

Pro-apoptotic effects of tau mutations in chromosome 17 frontotemporal dementia and parkinsonism

It was recently discovered that mutations of tau cause hereditary frontotemporal dementia and parkinsonism linked to chromosome 17 (FTDP-17). Here we report that cultured SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells transfected with mutated tau genes are more vulnerable to apoptotic stimulus. Two kinds of mutations of tau causing FTDP-17 were examined in the present study: one was in exon 10 (N279K) and the other was in exon 12 (V337M). SH-SY5Y cells transfected with either mutated tau were more vulnerable to serum withdrawal, whereas cells transfected with the wild-type tau or vector alone showed no significant change in apoptotic vulnerability. The increase in the intracellular calcium concentration by the serum withdrawal was significantly greater in the SH-SY5Y cells transfected with mutated tau genes than in cells transfected with the wild-type tau or vector alone. These results suggest that mutations of tau might cause FTDP-17 by these pro-apoptotic functions by disrupting the intracellular calcium homeostasis.

Augmentation of somato-sympathetic reflex in the ischemic hindlimb of anesthetized rats

Activities of the visceral sympathetic nerve increase with noxious mechanical stimulation. This study investigated the effects of noxious mechanical stimulation of hindlimb on arterial blood pressure, heart rate (HR) and renal sympathetic nerve activities (RNA) in anesthetized rats intact or under ischemic conditions. This study utilized two methods of noxious mechanical stimulation. One was pinching of the hindpaw; the other, strangulation of the ankle joint. Twenty-three male Wistar rats were used in the experiment. Pinching and strangulation of the intact hindlimb caused an increase in RNA. The increased RNA was greater during strangulation than during pinch stimulation (p < 0.0001). In the ischemic hindlimb produced by occlusion of the left common iliac artery, pinching and strangulation caused a further increase in RNA (p < 0.0001). Arterial blood pressure and HR significantly increased during strangulation with ischemic condition (p < 0.05). These results suggest that the reflex effects of somatosensory input on RNA were augmented in the ischemic hindlimb.

Clinical experience of Argatroban for anticoagulation in cardiovascular surgery

PURPOSE

We have reviewed our experience with Argatroban-a direct thrombin inhibitor for anticoagulation--in a variety of cardiovascular operations, and in extracorporeal circulation, as a substitute for heparin.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

60 patients receiving anticoagulation with Argatroban were classified into the following four groups. Group 1; 20 patients with anticoagulation therapy after cardiac surgery. Group 2; 8 patients with extracorporeal circulation for continuous hemofiltration for either pre- or post-operative control of acute renal failure. Argatroban was used alone or in combination with nafamostat mesilate. Group 3, one patient with replacement of the descending aorta with left heart assist and 15 patients with percutaneous cardiopulmonary support. And Group 4, 16 patients undergoing vascular surgery including the abdominal aorta. The target activated clotting time was individually set for each group. In Group 1, the coagulofibrinolytic activity and platelet function were measured precisely. Bleeding and complications were examined in all groups.

RESULTS

Group 1; the targeted activated clotting time of 150-180 seconds was achieved by a dosage of 0.4-0.8 microgram/kg/min Argatroban. Group 2; the activated clotting time of 150-180 seconds was achieved by 0.05-1.6 micrograms/kg/min (concomitance), or by 0.02-2.5 micrograms/kg/min (alone). Group 3; the activated clotting time of 180-200 seconds by 0.05-3.86 micrograms/kg/min. And Group 4; the activated clotting time of around 150 seconds by 2.0 micrograms/kg/min with initial bolus infusion of 0.1 mg/kg. Argatroban did not promote post-surgery bleeding and had no unfavorable effect on coagulo-fibrinolysis or on platelet activity.

CONCLUSION

Argatroban may be useful as an anticoagulant in the field of cardiovascular surgery as a substitute for heparin, without causing any post-surgery bleeding complication, or influencing the fibrinolytic activities or platelet functions.

Cardiac function in dialysis patients evaluated by Doppler echocardiography and its relation to intradialytic hypotension: a new index combining systolic and diastolic function

AIM, PATIENTS AND METHODS

Cardiac function of 40 patients on maintenance dialysis was examined using a new Doppler index combining systolic and diastolic function. Immediately before dialysis, ultrasonic pulsed Doppler was used to measure right and left ventricular inflow and outflow waveforms. The sum of the isovolumetric contraction time (ICT) and isovolumetric relaxation time (IRT) was calculated by subtracting the ejection time from the interval between the end of an inflow waveform and the start of the next inflow waveform. The new index was obtained by dividing the sum of the two isovolumetric times by the ejection time. Cardiac function was evaluated in dialysis patients and healthy controls using new indices of the right and left heart systems.

RESULT

Indices of the right and left heart systems in dialysis patients were significantly higher than those in healthy controls. With respect to hypotension during dialysis, patients were divided into two groups, a group with decreased blood pressure (group A: 27 patients) and a group with normal blood pressure (group B: 13 patients). Only the left heart system index in group A was significantly higher. There were no significant differences in other M-mode Doppler indices between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

The new index was a more sensitive evaluator of cardiac function and predictor of hypotension during dialysis compared to standard echocardiographic indices.

Normal levels of serum glycoproteins maintained in beta-1, 4-galactosyltransferase I-knockout mice

The galactose-mediated clearance of serum glycoproteins from the circulation was evaluated using beta-1,4-galactosyltransferase (beta-1,4-GalT) I-knockout mice. Partial structural study of the oligosaccharides released from mouse serum glycoproteins revealed that 77.4% of the oligosaccharides from beta-1,4-GalT I(+/+) mouse contain galactose, while 7.7% of those from beta-1,4-GalT I(-/-) mouse were galactosylated. Under the conditions, no significant change in serum protein concentrations was observed between the normal and mutant mice. The results indicate that the hepatic asialoglycoprotein receptor-mediated system is not functioning in the clearance of endogenous serum glycoproteins.