IL-6-Producing Pheochromocytoma Associated With Von Hippel Lindau Disease: A Case Report With Literature Review

We present a first case report of an IL-6-producing pheochromocytoma associated with von Hippel Lindau (vHL) disease. Pheochromocytomas are rare tumors that produce catecholamines, leading to various symptoms. In this case, a 28-year-old woman with a family history of vHL disease presented with a prolonged fever. Laboratory examinations revealed elevated C-reactive protein levels, and notably, a significantly increased serum IL-6 level. Imaging studies confirmed bilateral adrenal tumors with increased uptake on fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography and 123I-metaiodobenzylguanidine scintigraphy in the right adrenal gland. Despite partial relief with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and alpha-blockers, her fever persisted until prednisolone administration, which promoted a complete resolution. A histopathological analysis following a right laparoscopic adrenalectomy revealed a typical pheochromocytoma. We conducted further analyses, including an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, and immunoblot assays from the resected tumor tissues. We compared the current case with other cases of pheochromocytoma that presented neither elevated serum IL-6 nor high fever. Using ELISA, we found that this patient exhibited more IL-6 secretion than that seen in other cases. Additionally, quantitative real-time PCR and immunoblot found that both the phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression levels exceeded those of the other cases. Thus, we surmised that IL-6 was produced directly from the tumor tissue and IL-6 expression was potentiated through the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway. Our findings contribute to the understanding of IL-6-producing pheochromocytomas and their distinct clinical characteristics.

Heterostructure engineering and ultralow Pt-loaded multicomponent nanocage for efficient electrocatalytic oxygen evolution

Developing highly efficient electrocatalysts based on appropriate heterojunction engineering and electronic structure modification for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) has been extensively recognized as an effective approach to increase the efficiency of water splitting. Herein, ultralow Pt-loaded (1 %) NiCoFeP@NiCoFe-PBA hollow nanocages with well-defined heterointerfaces and modified electronic environment are successfully fabricated. As expected, the obtained Pt-NiCoFeP@NiCoFe-PBA exhibits outstanding performance with a low overpotential of 255 mV at 10 mA cm^-2 and a small Tafel slope of 57.2 mV dec^-1. More specifically, the highly open three-dimensional structure, exquisite interior voids and abundant surface defects endow Pt-NiCoFeP@NiCoFe-PBA nanocages with more electrochemical active sites. Meanwhile, experimental results and mechanism studies also reveal that the construction of heterogeneous interfaces as well as incorporation of noble metals could readily induce strong synergistic effects and significantly tailor electronic configurations to optimize the binding energy of the intermediates, thereby achieving prominent OER performance.

Photoelectrocatalytic oxidation of ethylene glycol on trimetallic PdAgCu nanospheres enhanced by surface plasmon resonance

The notable surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect of some metals has been applied to improve the efficiency of alcohol oxidation reactions, whereas the comprehensive investigation of Cu-assisted photoelectrocatalysis remains challenging. We herein successfully prepared trimetallic PdAgCu nanospheres (NSs) with abundant surface bulges for the advanced ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR) and compared them with bimetallic PdAg NSs to investigate the performance enhancement mechanism. Impressively, the as-optimized PdAgCu NSs exhibited superb mass activity and electrochemical stability. Moreover, under visible light illumination, the mass activity of PdAgCu NSs increased to 1.62 times compared to that in the dark, and in contrast, the mass activity of PdAg NSs only increased to 1.48 times that in the dark. A mechanistic study indicated that the incorporation of Cu not only strengthens the whole SPR effect of PdAgCu NSs but also further modifies the electronic structure of Pd. This work highlighted that the incorporation of Cu into PdAg NSs further enhanced the photoelectrocatalytic performance and increased noble metal atom utilization, which may provide guidance to fabricate novel and promising nanocatalysts in the field of photoelectrocatalysis.

In situ nanopores enrichment of Mesh-like palladium nanoplates for bifunctional fuel cell reactions: A joint etching strategy

Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials with nanopore display an enhancement effect on electrocatalysis behavior, whereas the nanopore engineering for 2D nanocatalysts remains an insurmountable challenge. We advance the synthesis of multilayer Pd nanoplates (Pd NPs) and two types of meshy nanoplates (Pd LMNPs/MNPs) with escalating nanopores from none and sparse to porous. Specially, an in situ nanopore enrichment on these Pd nanoplates hinges on a joint etching strategy with integrated manipulation of reaction kinetics. The optimized Pd MNPs exhibit exceptional oxygen reduction reaction performance, owing to the enhanced intermediates protonation on Pd site neighboring nanopore, which has been elucidated by density functional theory calculations. In addition, Pd MNPs also deliver excellent performances in fuel cell anodic reactions, including ethanol oxidation reaction and formic acid oxidation reaction. This study highlights a new strategy for in situ nanopores engineering, providing a prospect for designing superior nanocatalysts.

Characterizing the degeneration of nuclear membrane and mitochondria of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells from patients with type II diabetes

Regenerative therapeutic approaches involving the transplantation of stem cells differentiated into insulin‐producing cells are being studied in patients with rapidly progressing severe diabetes. Adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells have been reported to have varied cellular characteristics depending on the biological environment of the location from which they were harvested. However, the characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells in type II diabetes have not been clarified. In this study, we observed the organelles of mesenchymal stem cells from patients with type II diabetes under a transmission electron microscope to determine the structure of stem cells in type II diabetes. Transmission electron microscopic observation of mesenchymal stem cells from healthy volunteers (N‐ADSC) and those from patients with type II diabetes (T2DM‐ADSC) revealed enlarged nuclei and degenerated mitochondrial cristae in T2DM‐ADSCs. Moreover, T2DM‐ADSCs were shown to exhibit a lower expression of Emerin, a constituent protein of the nuclear membrane, and a decreased level of mitochondrial enzyme activity. In this study, we successfully demonstrated the altered structure of nuclear membrane and the decreased mitochondrial enzyme activity in adipose‐derived mesenchymal cells from patients with type II diabetes. These findings have contributed to the understanding of type II diabetes‐associated changes in mesenchymal stem cells used for regenerative therapy.

P176 Left ventricular diastolic function by gated myocardial perfusion SPECT strongly reflects NT-ProBNP

Background

The importance of left ventricle diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) has been recognized widely, as it is well established that heart failure with preserved ejection fraction has a poor prognosis. Furthermore, N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-ProBNP) is used as a marker of heart failure. However, the association between LVDD and NT-proBNP is unclear. 

Purpose

The aim of this study was to clarify the association between LVDD and NT-ProBNP. 

Methods

In this study, an index based on gated myocardial perfusion SPECT using CardioREPO software for the diagnosis of LVDD was used. Out of the 171 patients who underwent myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) between January 2015 and December 2018, 163 individuals (116 men and 47 women) completed MPI and NT-ProBNP. Patients were classified into 4 groups: NT-ProBNP levels below 125 pg/ml (n = 52), NT-ProBNP levels 125 to 400 pg/ml (n = 33), NT-ProBNP levels 400 to 900 pg/ml (n = 23), and NT-ProBNP levels over 900 pg/ml (n = 37). CardioREPO parameters (peak filling rate　(PFR), 1/3 mean filling rate (MFR), and time to peak filling rate/R-R (TTPFR)) were compared between the 4 NT-ProBNP groups. 

Results

Of the 163 patients, 55 had LVDD. The PFR and 1/3MFR were associated with LVDD. There was a statistically significant difference in PFR and 1/3 MFR between the NT-ProBNP levels below 125 pg/ml group and the NT-ProBNP levels 400 to 900 pg/ml group (PFR = 2.51+/-1.11 vs. 1.80+/-0.65, p = 0.001; 1/3 MFR = 1.41+/-0.55 vs. 1.06+/-0.47, p = 0.006, Table).

Conclusions

The MPI indices obtained by CardioREPO software were useful in the diagnosis of LVDD. The evaluation of LVDD by MPI correlated with NT-Pro BNP level is thought to have a clinical utility in the diagnosis and management of LVDD.

Variable: NT-ProBNP 　 0-125 (n = 52) 125-400 (n = 33) 400-900 (n = 23) 900- (n = 37) p Age 66 ± 11 72 ± 11 68 ± 17 70 ± 12 0.133 Male 40 (77%) 22 (12%) 18 (78%) 23 (62%) 0.36 Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction 8 (15%) 4 (12%) 10 (43%) 27 (73%) <0.001 E/A 0.9 ± 0.3 0.8 ± 0.2 1.1 ± 0.7 1.4 ± 0.9 (35) <0.001 E/e" 10.27 ± 3.69 (20) 8.83 ± 3.56 (10) 12.46 ± 3.75 (12) 20.25 ± 8.30 (25) <0.001 rest-PFR /s 2.51 ± 1.11 2.06 ± 0.58 2.16 ± 0.65 1.80 ± 0.65 0.001 rest-1/3 MFR /s 1.41 ± 0.55 1.19 ± 0.41 1.16 ± 0.50 1.06 ±0.47 0.008 rest-TTPFR ms 177 ± 53 181 ± 69 198 ± 80 166 ± 85 0.38 rest-TTPFR / R-R 　 0.19 ± 0.06 0.20 ± 0.11 0.21 ±0.09 0.21 ± 0.15 0.92

Electrochemical hydrogenation of non-aromatic carboxylic acid derivatives as a sustainable synthesis process: from catalyst design to device construction

Electrochemical hydrogenation of a carboxylic acid using water as a hydrogen source is an environmentally friendly synthetic process for upgrading bio-based chemicals. We systematically studied electrochemical hydrogenation of non-aromatic carboxylic acid derivatives on anatase TiO2 by a combination of experimental analyses and density functional theory calculations, which for the first time shed light on mechanistic insights for the electrochemical hydrogenation of carboxylic acids. Development of a substrate permeable TiO2 cathode enabled construction of a flow-type electrolyser, i.e., a so-called polymer electrode alcohol synthesis cell (PEAEC) for the continuous synthesis of an alcoholic compound from a carboxylic acid. We demonstrated the highly efficient and selective conversion of oxalic acid to produce glycolic acid, which can be regarded as direct electric power storage into an easily treatable alcoholic compound.

Catalytic enhancement on Ti–Zr complex oxide particles for electrochemical hydrogenation of oxalic acid to produce an alcoholic compound by controlling electronic states and oxide structures

Ti_0.9Zr_0.1O₂ complex oxide particles exhibit superior catalytic performances for the direct power storage into glycolic acid via electroreduction of oxalic acid due to favorable crystallinity.

A zeolitic vanadotungstate family with structural diversity and ultrahigh porosity for catalysis

Design of the structure and composition of crystalline microporous inorganic oxides is of great importance in catalysis. Developing new zeolites is one approach towards this design because of the tunable pore system and high thermal stability. Zeolites are limited to main group elements, which limits their applications in redox catalysis. Another promising choice is zeolitic transition metal oxides providing both porosity and redox activity, thereby further expanding the diversity of porous materials. However, the examples of zeolitic transition metal oxides are rare. Here, we report a new class of zeolitic vanadotungstates with tunable frameworks exhibiting a large porosity and redox activity. The assembly of [W₄O₁₆]⁸⁻ units with VO²⁺ forms two isomeric porous frameworks. Owing to the complex redox properties and open porosity, the vanadotungstates efficiently catalyse the selective reduction of NO by NH₃. This finding provides an opportunity for design and synthesis of inorganic multifunctional materials for future catalytic applications.

Zeolitic transition metal oxides provide both porosity and redox activity, thereby further expanding the diversity of porous materials, but their design and development remain rare. Here, the authors report a new class of zeolitic vanadotungstates with tunable frameworks exhibiting a large porosity and redox activity.

Carbon-neutral energy cycles using alcohols

We demonstrated carbon-neutral (CN) energy circulation using glycolic acid (GC)/oxalic acid (OX) redox couple. Here, we report fundamental studies on both catalyst search for power generation process, i.e. GC oxidation, and elemental steps for fuel generation process, i.e. OX reduction, in CN cycle. The catalytic activity test on various transition metals revealed that Rh, Pd, Ir, and Pt have preferable features as a catalyst for electrochemical oxidation of GC. A carbon-supported Pt catalyst in alkaline conditions exhibited higher activity, durability, and product selectivity for electrooxidation of GC rather than those in acidic media. The kinetic study on OX reduction clearly indicated that OX reduction undergoes successive two-electron reductions to form GC. Furthermore, application of TiO₂ catalysts with large specific area for electrochemical reduction of OX facilitates the selective formation of GC.

Electrochemical Production of Glycolic Acid from Oxalic Acid Using a Polymer Electrolyte Alcohol Electrosynthesis Cell Containing a Porous TiO2 Catalyst

A liquid flow-type electrolyser that continuously produces an alcohol from a carboxylic acid was constructed by employing a polymer electrolyte, named a polymer electrolyte alcohol electrosynthesis cell (PEAEC). Glycolic acid (GC, an alcoholic compound) is generated on anatase TiO₂ catalysts via four-electron reduction of oxalic acid (OX, a divalent carboxylic acid), accompanied with water oxidation, which achieves continuous electric power storage in easily stored GC. Porous anatase TiO₂ directly grown on Ti mesh (TiO₂/Ti-M) or Ti felt (TiO₂/Ti-F) was newly fabricated as a cathode having favourable substrate diffusivity. A membrane-electrode assembly composed of the TiO₂/Ti-M, Nafion 117, and an IrO₂ supported on a gas-diffusion carbon electrode (IrO₂/C) was applied to the PEAEC. We achieved a maximum energy conversion efficiency of 49.6% and a continuous 99.8% conversion of 1 M OX, which is an almost saturated aqueous solution at room temperature.

In-situ straining and time-resolved electron tomography data acquisition in a transmission electron microscope

This paper reports the preliminary results of a new in-situ three-dimensional (3D) imaging system for observing plastic deformation behavior in a transmission electron microscope (TEM) as a directly relevant development of the recently reported straining-and-tomography holder [Sato K et al. (2015) Development of a novel straining holder for transmission electron microscopy compatible with single tilt-axis electron tomography. Microsc. 64: 369-375]. We designed an integrated system using the holder and newly developed straining and image-acquisition software and then developed an experimental procedure for in-situ straining and time-resolved electron tomography (ET) data acquisition. The software for image acquisition and 3D visualization was developed based on the commercially available ET software TEMographyTM. We achieved time-resolved 3D visualization of nanometer-scale plastic deformation behavior in a Pb-Sn alloy sample, thus demonstrating the capability of this system for potential applications in materials science.

Development of a novel straining holder for transmission electron microscopy compatible with single tilt-axis electron tomography

We have developed a newly designed straining specimen holder for in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) compatible with high-angle single tilt-axis electron tomography. The holder can deform a TEM specimen under tensile stress with the strain rate between 1.5 × 10(-6) and 5.2 × 10(-3) s(-1). We have also confirmed that the maximum tilt angle of the specimen holder reaches ±60° with a rectangular shape aluminum specimen. The new specimen holder, termed as 'straining and tomography holder', will have wide range potential applications in materials science.

Heterogeneity in soil water and light environments and dispersal limitation: what facilitates tree species coexistence in a temperate forest?

In the present study, we analysed the habitat association of tree species in an old-growth temperate forest across all life stages to test theories on the coexistence of tree species in forest communities. An inventory for trees was implemented at a 6-ha plot in Ogawa Forest Reserve for adults, juveniles, saplings and seedlings. Volumetric soil water content (SMC) and light levels were measured in 10-m grids. Relationships between the actual number of stems and environmental variables were determined for 35 major tree species, and the spatial correlations within and among species were analysed. The light level had no statistically significant effect on distribution of saplings and seedlings of any species. In contrast, most species had specific optimal values along the SMC gradient. The optimal values were almost identical in earlier life stages, but were more variable in later life stages among species. However, no effective niche partitioning among the species was apparent even at the adult stage. Furthermore, results of spatial analyses suggest that dispersal limitation was not sufficient to mitigate competition between species. This might result from well-scattered seed distribution via wind and bird dispersal, as well as conspecific density-dependent mortality of seeds and seedlings. Thus, both niche partitioning and dispersal limitation appeared less important for facilitating coexistence of species within this forest than expected in tropical forests. The tree species assembly in this temperate forest might be controlled through a neutral process at the spatial scale tested in this study.

Unusual viscoelasticity behaviour in aqueous solutions containing a photoresponsive amphiphile

Here, we report unusual behaviour of the viscoelasticity of surfactant aqueous solutions consisting of cationic cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and an anionic photoresponsive amphiphile, sodium [4-(4-butylphenylazo)phenoxy]acetate (C4AzoNa). When C4AzoNa molecules are trans-isomers, spheroidal micelles are formed in the surfactant solution, the viscosity of which is low. Irradiation of this solution by ultraviolet (UV) light yields an aqueous solution of CTAB/cis-C4AzoNa (cis-isomers of C4AzoNa), which is a highly viscous gel consisting of wormlike micelles. The drastic change in the surfactant solution viscosity is attributed to the formation and disruption of wormlike micelles. The geometrical structural transformation of the azobenzene groups in the C4AzoNa molecules of the CTAB/C4AzoNa mixture would lead to a change in the critical packing parameter of the mixture, thereby inducing the morphological transformation of the aggregates (spheroidal micelles to wormlike micelles). To our knowledge, this is the first report of a drastic increase in surfactant solution viscosity by UV light irradiation.

Contrast-enhanced intraoperative ultrasonography using perfluorobutane microbubbles for the enumeration of colorectal liver metastases

BACKGROUND

Intraoperative ultrasonography (IOUS) is considered the standard for the identification of liver metastases. Use of lipid-stabilized perfluorobutane microbubbles as an ultrasound contrast agent may improve this. The value of contrast-enhanced IOUS (CE-IOUS) in enumerating colorectal liver metastases was studied here.

METHODS

CE-IOUS was performed in consecutive resections for colorectal liver metastases in 2007-2010. All patients underwent preoperative computed tomography. Magnetic resonance imaging was not carried out routinely. Conventional intraoperative examination including IOUS, and CE-IOUS with peripherally injected contrast were performed. The histopathological findings and 6-month follow-up images were used as the reference standard.

RESULTS

The study group of 102 patients had a total of 315 lesions identified on preoperative imaging (2·4 lesions per operation; 129 operations). Conventional intraoperative examination including IOUS identified 350 lesions (2·7 per operation). CE-IOUS identified 370 lesions (2·9 per operation). The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of CE-IOUS were 97·1, 59·1 and 93·2 per cent respectively. The CE-IOUS findings altered the surgical plan in 19 operations (14·7 per cent).

CONCLUSION

CE-IOUS provided additional information to that obtained using contemporary preoperative imaging and conventional intraoperative examinations.

Addition of ascorbic acid to the extracellular environment activates lipoplexes of a ferrocenyl lipid and promotes cell transfection

The level of cell transfection mediated by lipoplexes formed using the ferrocenyl lipid bis(11-ferrocenylundecyl)dimethylammonium bromide (BFDMA) depends strongly on the oxidation state of the two ferrocenyl groups of the lipid (reduced BFDMA generally mediates high levels of transfection, but oxidized BFDMA mediates very low levels of transfection). Here, we report that it is possible to chemically transform inactive lipoplexes (formed using oxidized BFMDA) to "active" lipoplexes that mediate high levels of transfection by treatment with the small-molecule reducing agent ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Our results demonstrate that this transformation can be conducted in cell culture media and in the presence of cells by addition of ascorbic acid to lipoplex-containing media in which cells are growing. Treatment of lipoplexes of oxidized BFDMA with ascorbic acid resulted in lipoplexes composed of reduced BFDMA, as characterized by UV/vis spectrophotometry, and lead to activated lipoplexes that mediated high levels of transgene expression in the COS-7, HEK 293T/17, HeLa, and NIH 3T3 cell lines. Characterization of internalization of DNA by confocal microscopy and measurements of the zeta potentials of lipoplexes suggested that these large differences in cell transfection result from (i) differences in the extents to which these lipoplexes are internalized by cells and (ii) changes in the oxidation state of BFDMA that occur in the extracellular environment (i.e., prior to internalization of lipoplexes by cells). Characterization of lipoplexes by small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) and by cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM) revealed changes in the nanostructures of lipoplexes upon the addition of ascorbic acid, from aggregates that were generally amorphous, to aggregates with a more extensive multilamellar nanostructure. The results of this study provide guidance for the design of redox-active lipids that could lead to methods that enable spatial and/or temporal control of cell transfection.

Significance of collagenous and mucinous spherulosis in breast cytology specimens

OBJECTIVE

Spherulosis of the breast is a rare but distinct benign morphological entity. As there are few cytological reports of breast spherulosis, the significance of spherulosis among cytological specimens is unclear. The objective was to document cytological aspects of spherulosis.

METHODS

A total of 3491 consecutive breast fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) samples and 69 nipple discharge cytology samples were reviewed. Papanicolaou-stained slides with or without Romanowsky staining were analysed. The corresponding 1926 histological specimens were also reviewed.

RESULTS

We detected 17 cases of collagenous spherulosis (CS) and/or mucinous spherulosis (MS) among 3560 breast cytology specimens (0.48%). All samples were from women, who varied in age from 22 to 69 years. CS and/or MS were present in 15 of 3491 FNAC specimens (0.43%) and in two of 69 nipple discharge cytology specimens (2.9%). Corresponding histological specimens were available for 14 of the 17 specimens. Of the 14 specimens, 12 consisted of intraductal papilloma, one of fibroadenoma, and one of fibrocystic change. There was no spherulosis among the 1251 cytological specimens of malignant diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

Cytological evidence of spherulosis is a good indicator of intraductal papilloma.

Quantitative detection of Streptococcus mutans in the dental plaque of Japanese preschool children by real-time PCR

AIMS

To detect quantitatively the total bacteria and Streptococcus mutans in dental plaque by real-time PCR with prbac, Sm and GTF-B primers, and to compare their presence with the prevalence of dental caries in Japanese preschool children.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Human dental plaque samples were collected from the labial surfaces of the upper primary central incisors of 107 children. The dental status was recorded as dft by WHO caries diagnostic criteria. Positive dt and dft scores by the Sm or GTF-B primer were significantly higher than negative scores (P < 0.01). The proportions of Strep. mutans to the total bacteria from sound, and sound and/or filled upper primary incisors were significantly lower than those from decayed or filled, and decayed incisors, respectively (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The ratios of Strep. mutans to total bacteria in plaque detected by real-time PCR with Sm and GTF-B primers were closely associated with the prevalence of dental caries in Japanese preschool children.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

These assays may be useful for the assessment of an individual's risk of dental caries.

S-2474, a novel nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, rescues cortical neurons from human group IIA secretory phospholipase A-induced apoptosis

The elevated level of group IIA secretory phospholipase A(2) (sPLA(2)-IIA) activity contributes to neurodegeneration in the cerebral cortex after ischemia. The up-regulation of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is also relevant to cerebral ischemia in humans. Studies of ischemia with COX-2 inhibitors suggest a clinical benefit. In the present study, we investigated effects of S-2474 on sPLA(2)-IIA-induced cell death in primary cultures of rat cortical neurons, which was established as an in vitro model of brain ischemia. S-2474 is a novel nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which inhibits COX-2 and contains the di-tert-butylphenol antioxidant moiety. S-2474 significantly prevented neurons from undergoing sPLA(2)-IIA-induced cell death. S-2474 completely ameliorated sPLA(2)-IIA-induced apoptotic features such as the condensation of chromatin and the fragmentation of DNA. sPLA(2) also generated neurotoxic prostaglandin D(2) (PGD(2)) and free radicals from neurons before cell death. S-2474 significantly inhibited the sPLA(2)-IIA-induced generation of PGD(2). The present cortical cultures contained few non-neuronal cells, indicating that S-2474 affected neuronal survival directly, but not indirectly via non-neuronal cells. The inhibitory effect of S-2474 on COX-2 might contribute to its neuroprotective effect. In conclusion, S-2474 exhibits neuroprotective effects against sPLA(2)-IIA. Furthermore, the present study suggests that S-2474 may possess therapeutic potential for stroke via ameliorating neurodegeneration.

Living donor liver transplantation for end-stage hepatitis C

Living donor liver transplantation is important for patients with end-stage viral hepatitis because of the shortage of organs from deceased donors. However, preliminary results indicate that living liver donation might be disadvantageous for hepatitis C virus-positive patients. Twenty-seven patients who underwent living donor liver transplantation for hepatitis C virus cirrhosis preemptively received antiviral therapy using interferon-alpha2b and ribavirin, which was started an average of 32 days after the operation and continued for at least 6 months thereafter. The serum hepatitis C virus RNA became negative in the 8 of 16 patients with more than 1 year follow-up. The cumulative 3-year patient survival was 85%, which was comparable to that of hepatitis C virus negative patients (n = 93; 90%). Preemptive antiviral therapy after transplantation may be necessary for satisfactory results after living donor liver transplantation.

Incontinentia pigmenti achromians (Ito)

A patient with incontinentia pigmenti achromians was reported. She displayed other abnormalities such as a saddle nose, malformed auricles, growth retardation, convulsions and abnormal EEG. Histopathologically, a partial decrease in melanin granules in the basal layer and the presence of melanocytes which showed a weak dopa reaction were the main findings. The hypofunction of melanin production was detected by electron microscopy.

Left liver grafts for patients with MELD score of less than 15

Left liver grafts are now seldom used for adult recipients of living donor liver transplantations because the left liver is believed to be insufficient to meet patient metabolic demands. At the University of Tokyo Hospital, left liver grafts have been limited to patients with fulminant hepatic failure or chronic hepatic failure with a model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score of less than 15. Since 2000 25 adult patients received left liver grafts. The mean graft weight to standard liver volume ratio was 44%. The rates of acute rejection, vascular, and biliary complications were 24%, 0%, and 25%, respectively. All patients survived the operation and are doing well with a mean follow-up of 17 months. The present results suggest that left liver grafts provide acceptable results among patients satisfying our criteria.

Regulatory regions and nuclear factors involved in nodule-enhanced expression of a soybean phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase gene: implications for molecular evolution

We have determined the genomic organization of two closely related phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase genes in soybean, GmPEPC7, which is expressed at high levels in root nodules, and the housekeeping gene GmPEPC15. Their nucleotide sequences, including most introns and 5;-flanking regions within 600 bp upstream from the transcription start sites, are well conserved, suggesting that they were duplicated quite recently. To gain insights into the process of evolution of the tissue-specifically expressed GmPEPC7gene, we produced chimeric constructs carrying either the GmPEPC7or GmPEPC15promoter fused to the beta-glucuronidase gene. The expression patterns of the reporter observed in nodules that developed on transgenic hairy roots reflected the levels of mRNA levels produced by the genes in wild-type soybean plants, indicating that the GmPEPC7promoter directs nodule-specific expression. Loss-of-function experiments showed that the segment of GmPEPC7between -466 and -400, designated as the "switch region" (SR), was necessary for expression in nodules, although proteins that bind to SR were not detectable in a gel-retardation assay. Another gel-retardation assay indicated that putative nodule nuclear proteins bind specifically to the region of GmPEPC7between -400 and -318, designated as the "amplifier region" (AR). Both SR and AR have characteristic sequences that are not found in the GmPEPC15promoter. Furthermore, experiments using hybrid promoters derived from GmPEPC15demonstrated that AR confers high-level expression in nodules only in combination with SR. When wild-type soybean plants were subjected to prolonged darkness and subsequently illuminated, the level of GmPEPC7mRNA in nodules decreased and then recovered. This study suggests that the acquisition of two interdependent cis-acting elements resulted in molecular evolution of the nodule-enhanced GmPEPC7gene.

Gas6 rescues cortical neurons from amyloid beta protein-induced apoptosis

Gas6, a product of the growth-arrest-specific gene 6, protects neurons from serum deprivation-induced apoptosis. Neuronal apoptosis is also caused by amyloid beta protein (Abeta), whose accumulation in the brain is a characteristic feature of Alzheimer's disease. Abeta induces Ca(2+) influx via L-type voltage-dependent calcium channels (L-VSCCs), leading to its neurotoxicity. In the present study, we investigated effects of Gas6 on Abeta-induced cell death in primary cultures of rat cortical neurons. Abeta caused neuronal cell death in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Gas6 significantly prevented neurons from Abeta-induced cell death. Gas6 ameliorated Abeta-induced apoptotic features such as the condensation of chromatin and the fragmentation of DNA. Prior to cell death, Abeta increased influx of Ca(2+) into neurons through L-VSCCs. Gas6 significantly inhibited the Abeta-induced Ca(2+) influx. The inhibitor of L-VSCCs also suppressed Abeta-induced neuronal cell death. The present cortical cultures contained few non-neuronal cells, indicating that Gas6 affected the survival of neurons directly, but not indirectly via non-neuronal cells. In conclusion, we demonstrate that Gas6 rescues cortical neurons from Abeta-induced apoptosis. Furthermore, the present study indicates that inhibition of L-VSCC contributes to the neuroprotective effect of Gas6.

Intracellular cytokine analysis of CD4-positive T cells predictive of sustained response to interferon therapy for patients with chronic hepatitis C

We investigated whether the measurement of serum interleukin 18 (IL-18) and intracellular cytokine analysis of peripheral blood CD4-positive T cells (ICA-CD4+ Tc) of chronic hepatitis C (CH-C) patients before and two weeks after interferon (IFN) administration are useful for predicting sustained response to IFN. Twenty-nine CH-C patients received IFN every day for two weeks and three times a week for 22 weeks. Patients were divided into two groups: responders, in whom serum HCV-RNA was undetectable at the end of the follow-up (week 48), and nonresponders, in whom any other patterns were seen. Before and two weeks after IFN administration, serum IL-18 and ICA-CD4+ Tc as described by Jung et al were measured. Serum IL-18 and the relative prevalence of IFN-gamma+ and IL-4+, IFN-gamma+ and IL-4 (Th-1), and IFN-gamma- and IL-4+ cells in the responders were significantly increased, but only the relative prevalence of Th-1 cells in the nonresponders was increased two weeks after IFN therapy. In conclusion, ICA-CD4+ Tc and the measurement of serum IL-18 might be useful for predicting IFN therapy by comparing the results between before and two weeks after IFN.

Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase kinase involved in C(4) photosynthesis in Flaveria trinervia: cDNA cloning and characterization

In C(4) plants, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC; EC 4.1.1.31), a key enzyme in C(4) photosynthesis, is controlled by reversible phosphorylation of a conserved Ser residue near the N-terminus. We now report the first cloning of a cDNA from a C(4) plant, Flaveria trinervia, which encodes the specific protein kinase (FtPEPC-PK) involved in the phosphorylation of C(4)-form PEPC. Several lines of supportive evidence are: strict substrate specificity of the recombinant enzyme, prominent light/dark response of the transcript level and abundant expression in leaves of C(4) plant (F. trinervia) but very low expression in a C(3) plant of the same genus (Flaveria pringlei). We also discuss the possibility that the FtPEPC-PK gene has co-evolved with the PEPC gene to participate in C(4) photosynthesis.

A Ca(2+)-dependent protein kinase that endows rice plants with cold- and salt-stress tolerance functions in vascular bundles

A rice Ca(2+)-dependent protein kinase, OsCDPK7, is a positive regulator commonly involved in the tolerance to cold and salt/drought. We carried out in situ detection of the transcript and immunolocalization of the protein. In the wild-type rice plants under both stress conditions, OsCDPK7 was expressed predominantly in vascular tissues of crowns and roots, vascular bundles and central cylinder, respectively, where water stress occurs most severely. This enzyme was also expressed in the peripheral cylinder of crown vascular bundles and root sclerenchyma. Similar localization patterns with stronger signals were observed in stress-tolerant OsCDPK7 over-expressing transformants with the cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter. The transcript of a putative target gene of the OsCDPK7 signaling pathway, rab16A, was also detected essentially in the same tissues upon salt stress, suggesting that the OsCDPK7 pathway operates predominantly in these regions. We propose that the use of the 35S promoter fortuitously strengthened the localized expression of OsCDPK7, resulting in enhancement of the stress signaling in the inherently operating regions leading to improved stress tolerance.

[Indication for surgical and microwave coagulation therapy for multiple (> or = 5) bilobar liver metastases from colorectal cancer]

We analyzed methods and clinicopathological factors for multiple (> or = 5) bilobar liver metastases (H3) from colorectal cancer and evaluated the indication of surgical and microwave coagulation therapy (MCT) for them. Twenty-four patients with H3 underwent surgical therapy and were divided into two groups. Group a: 9 patients with a prognosis of more than 700 days. Group b: the remaining 15 patients. There was no significant difference in prognosis between those receiving MCT and resection + MCT as a surgical therapy. The number and maximum diameter of tumors tended to be smaller in Group a. The number of tumors was less than or equal to 9 and the maximum size of the tumors was 38 mm. Moreover, the tumor could be controlled by MCT alone if the tumor size was less than 30 mm. MCT is a useful therapy for these cases and the indication for surgical therapy may depend on the number and maximum size of tumors.

Effects of S-2474, a novel nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, on amyloid beta protein-induced neuronal cell death

1. The accumulation of amyloid beta protein (Abeta) in the brain is a characteristic feature of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Clinical trials of AD patients with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) indicate a clinical benefit. NSAIDs are presumed to act by suppressing inhibiting chronic inflammation in the brain of AD patients. 2. In the present study, we investigated effects of S-2474 on Abeta-induced cell death in primary cultures of rat cortical neurons. 3. S-2474 is a novel NSAID, which inhibits cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2) and contains the di-tert-butylphenol antioxidant moiety. S-2474 significantly prevented neurons from Abeta(25 - 35)- and Abeta(1 - 40)-induced cell death. S-2474 ameliorated Abeta-induced apoptotic features such as the condensation of chromatin and the fragmentation of DNA completely. 4. Prior to cell death, Abeta(25 - 35) generated prostaglandin D(2) (PGD(2)) and free radicals from neurons. PGD(2) is a product of cyclo-oxygenase (COX), and caused neuronal cell death. 5. S-2474 significantly inhibited the Abeta(25 - 35)-induced generation of PGD(2) and free radicals. 6. The present cortical cultures contained little non-neuronal cells, indicating that S-2474 affected neuronal survival directly, but not indirectly via non-neuronal cells. Both an inhibitory effect of COX-2 and an antioxidant effect might contribute to the neuroprotective effects of S-2474. 7. In conclusion, S-2474 exhibits protective effects against neurotoxicity of Abeta. Furthermore, the present study suggests that S-2474 may possess therapeutic potential for AD via ameliorating degeneration in neurons as well as suppressing chronic inflammation in non-neuronal cells.

Lobular endocervical glandular hyperplasia is a metaplastic process with a pyloric gland phenotype

AIMS

Lobular endocervical glandular hyperplasia of the uterine cervix is a rare pseudoneoplastic lesion of the uterine cervix, described recently. Our aim was to characterize the clinicopathological and immunohistochemical features of lobular endocervical glandular hyperplasia, to elucidate its pyloric gland phenotype, and to distinguish it from adenoma malignum of the uterine cervix.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Nine cases of lobular endocervical glandular hyperplasia were studied histologically and immunohistochemically. The average age of the nine patients was 48.8 years (range 38-64 years). Six cases were found incidentally, whereas in three cases a watery vaginal discharge and imaging studies suggested adenoma malignum preoperatively. Microscopically, lobular endocervical glandular hyperplasia ranged from 1 mm to 20 mm (mean 6.8 mm) in the largest horizontal extent and 1 mm to 10 mm (mean 3.9 mm) in depth, and was characterized by lobular arrangements of small glands composed of low columnar cells with pale eosinophilic cytoplasm and bland nuclei. Three cases showed a pseudo-invasive growth. Intracytoplasmic mucin was predominantly PAS-positive, and seven cases showed immunoreactivity for M-GGMC-1, an antibody that reacts with pyloric gland-type mucin. Only focal and faint reactivity for CEA was seen, and ER was negative in all cases. The cytokeratin profile was CK7+/20- in all cases, in keeping with their Müllerian derivation. All three lesions examined contained chromogranin-positive endocrine cells. After surgery all patients are well without recurrent disease (mean follow-up was 48.4 months).

CONCLUSIONS

Lobular endocervical glandular hyperplasia is a morphologically distinct pseudoneoplastic glandular lesion, which has unique phenotypic characteristics shared by pyloric glands of the stomach. Although most are found incidentally, some cases may show clinical and radiological features resembling those of adenoma malignum.