Characterization of an uncharacterized aldo-keto reductase gene from peach and its role in abiotic stress tolerance

The aldo-keto reductase (AKR) superfamily is a large enzyme group of NADP-dependent oxidoreductases with numerous roles in metabolism, but many members in this superfamily remain uncharacterized. Here, PpAKR1, which was cloned from the rosaceous peach tree (Prunus persica), was investigated as a member of the superfamily. While PpAKR1 had amino acids that are important in AKRs and which belonged to the AKR4 group, PpAKR1 did not seem to belong to any of the AKR4 subgroups. PpAKR1 mRNA abundance increased with abscisic acid, oxidative stress, and cold and salt stress treatments in peach. NADP-dependent polyol dehydrogenase activity was increased in Arabidopsis thaliana transformed with PpAKR1. Salt tolerance increased in Arabidopsis transformed with PpAKR1. PpAKR1, which was a previously uncharacterized member of the AKR superfamily, could be involved in the abiotic stress tolerance.

Mucosal microvilli in dry eye patients with chronic GVHD

The ocular surface is a frequent target tissue of mucosal chronic GVHD (cGVHD). We investigated the histopathological features of the conjunctival microvilli in patients with cGVHD. Conjunctival tissue specimens from patients with cGVHD or Sjögren's syndrome (SS) or from healthy individuals were examined by light microscopy and EM, impression cytology, and immunohistochemistry. The cGVHD conjunctivae showed significantly more metaplasia and fewer goblet cells than the SS and normal conjunctivae. Abundant CD8(+) T cells infiltrated the basal epithelia in the cGVHD conjunctiva. The microvilli per standard epithelial unit and the secretory vesicles were counted by analyzing electron micrographs. The mean number of mucosal microvilli was significantly lower in the cGVHD than that in the SS or normal specimens, and the microvilli were significantly shorter, with a smaller height-width ratio. The mean number of secretory vesicles was also significantly lower, and the membrane-spanning mucin thinner, in the cGVHD compared with the SS and normal specimens. Thus, the conjunctival mucosal microvilli of cGVHD patients were significantly different in number and morphology from those of SS and normal subjects. These may be important factors affecting the stability of the tear-film layer and its contribution to cGVHD-related dry eye.

A genomic view of the sea urchin nervous system

The sequencing of the Strongylocentrotus purpuratus genome provides a unique opportunity to investigate the function and evolution of neural genes. The neurobiology of sea urchins is of particular interest because they have a close phylogenetic relationship with chordates, yet a distinctive pentaradiate body plan and unusual neural organization. Orthologues of transcription factors that regulate neurogenesis in other animals have been identified and several are expressed in neurogenic domains before gastrulation indicating that they may operate near the top of a conserved neural gene regulatory network. A family of genes encoding voltage-gated ion channels is present but, surprisingly, genes encoding gap junction proteins (connexins and pannexins) appear to be absent. Genes required for synapse formation and function have been identified and genes for synthesis and transport of neurotransmitters are present. There is a large family of G-protein-coupled receptors, including 874 rhodopsin-type receptors, 28 metabotropic glutamate-like receptors and a remarkably expanded group of 161 secretin receptor-like proteins. Absence of cannabinoid, lysophospholipid and melanocortin receptors indicates that this group may be unique to chordates. There are at least 37 putative G-protein-coupled peptide receptors and precursors for several neuropeptides and peptide hormones have been identified, including SALMFamides, NGFFFamide, a vasotocin-like peptide, glycoprotein hormones and insulin/insulin-like growth factors. Identification of a neurotrophin-like gene and Trk receptor in sea urchin indicates that this neural signaling system is not unique to chordates. Several hundred chemoreceptor genes have been predicted using several approaches, a number similar to that for other animals. Intriguingly, genes encoding homologues of rhodopsin, Pax6 and several other key mammalian retinal transcription factors are expressed in tube feet, suggesting tube feet function as photosensory organs. Analysis of the sea urchin genome presents a unique perspective on the evolutionary history of deuterostome nervous systems and reveals new approaches to investigate the development and neurobiology of sea urchins.

Visual results and complications of temporal incision phacoemulsification performed with the non-dominant left hand by junior ophthalmologists

AIMS

To assess the results of temporal incision phacoemulsification and aspiration performed with dominant and non-dominant hand of ophthalmology trainees.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis were made of 203 surgeries with dominant hand and 207 with non-dominant by five trainees at two institutions. Trainees sat at the patient's head, manipulating instruments with the dominant right hand for the right eye, and the non-dominant left hand for the left eye.

RESULTS

Vitreous loss occurred in 12 (5.9%) of 203 dominant operated eyes and seven (3.4%) of 207 non-dominant operated eyes. The rate of endothelial cell loss was 6.1% (9.8%) in dominant and 7.4% (12.4%) in non-dominant. Mean ultrasound time were 1.81 (0.70) minutes in dominant and 1.78 (0.78) minutes in non-dominant. One trainee showed statistically significant excesses in incidence of vitreous loss in dominant operated eyes (8.7%, p=0.0270), and one showed statistically significant prolongation of the operation in nondominant operated eyes (26.3 minutes, p=0.0315). In all other trainees, all parameters had no difference in both sides.

CONCLUSIONS

Ophthalmology trainees could successfully learn the technique with both hands. The authors consider that the skill of the non-dominant hand may be knowledge based and that surgeons avoid mistakes by mental efforts.

Clinical and experimental observation of glistening in acrylic intraocular lenses

PURPOSE

To determine whether or not glistening particles in implanted acrylic intraocular lenses (IOL) increase with the passage of time.

METHODS

Prospective clinical study: Glistenings were evaluated in 31 patients (49 eyes) with implanted acrylic IOL, the emphasis being on when glistening first became evident and subsequent changes in the number of glistening particles.

EXPERIMENT

IOLs were monitored for any changes that occurred with the passage of time as they were immersed first in a 50 degrees C saline solution and then in another saline solution with a temperature of 35 degrees C.

RESULTS

Prospective clinical study: Glistening phenomenon was observed in 28 IOLs (57%) 2 to 16 months after implantation (mean = 6.6 months). Glistenings reached their peak in number within a few months of formation in all cases, showing no further increase thereafter.

EXPERIMENT

Glistening particles first appeared on the 10th day of the experiment in sizes ranging from 3 to 10 microm in diameter. They remained at the same level for the next 60 days without showing any increase.

CONCLUSIONS

Glistening formation in acrylic IOLs was found to stabilize within a few months after appearance. The method of our experiment proved reliable in producing, in a relatively short period of time, glistening similar to that found in patients.

Functional correlation between the nuclear localization of Fht1p and its flocculation and heat tolerance activities in budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Fht1p is involved in the flocculation and heat tolerance machinery of budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Despite knowledge of its involvement in those phenotypes, a precise mechanism has yet to be discovered. To this end, we monitored the relationship between subcellular localization of Fht1p and its flocculation or heat tolerance function using newly developed expression vectors with a recombinant green fluorescent protein (GFP; S65T/S147P) of Aequorea victoria added at both the N- and C-terminus of Fht1p. The main fluorescent signal of the GFP tagged with either a wild-type Fht1p or mutants which preserve their flocculation function was detected in the nucleus, whereas signals of functionless mutants were dispersed to the cytoplasm.

Results of vitrectomy performed at the time of phacoemulsification complicated by intravitreal lens fragments

AIM

To evaluate outcome of vitrectomy performed at the time of phacoemulsification complicated by intravitreal lens material.

METHODS

Clinical records associated with consecutive 8536 phacoemulsification procedures were reviewed retrospectively.

RESULTS

17 (0.20%) eyes had a posterior capsule rupture with retained lens material in the vitreous cavity that required vitrectomy. Final visual acuity was 0.5 or better in 14 eyes (82%) and 0.4 to 0.1 in three eyes (18%). Retinal detachment occurred in one eye during vitrectomy and two after the surgery. Cystoid macular oedema was observed in two eyes and none developed glaucoma. The corneal endothelial cell loss was 5.7% (SD 6.8 %) (n=15) at 3-6 months postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined vitrectomy and intraocular lens implantation at the time of phacoemulsification complicated by intravitreal lens material is an option to be considered to reduce the risk of postoperative complications including secondary glaucoma and corneal endothelial cell damage.

Clinical and Experimental Observation of Glistening in Acrylic Intraocular Lenses

Purpose: To study whether the glistening on implanted acrylic intraocular lenses increases or not.Method: 1. Prospective study: We studied the glistening on 49 implanted acrylic intraocular lenses, particularly the time of appearance and increase after glistening appeared. 2. Experiment: We kept an intraocular lens immersed in saline solution at 50 degrees centigrade for 2 hours and then moved this lens into saline solution at 35 degrees centigrade, and observed this lens during immersion.Results: 1. Prospective study: Glistening was present in 28 eyes (57%), and appeared from 2 to 16 months postoperatively. A few months after appearance it become stable and did not increase further. 2. Experiment: On the 10th day after observation, we could see glistening on the lenses. The points of glistening were 10 µm or less in size, and did not change during 60 days of observation.Conclusion: The glistening in acrylic intraocular lenses seemed to become stable a few months after appearance. This our experimental method is useful, because it gives us glistening similar to clinical cases in a short time.

In Vitro Evaluation of Pressure Fluctuations with Differing Height of the Infusion Bottle in Phacoemulsification

Purpose: To investigate the influence of the height of the infusion bottle and vacuum pressure on the development of an occlusion break surge in an in vitro model of the anterior chamber of the eye.Methods: We employed a rigid chamber device to simulate the anterior chamber of the human eye and performed phacoemulsification with a synthetic nucleus. We evaluated amplitude of pressure fluctuations in the chamber. An experimental occlusion break surge was produced at vacuum pressures of 200, 300, and 400 mm Hg. For each vacuum setting, the height of the infusion bottle was preset from 60 to 90 cm at intervals of 5 cm. We performed 6 measurements for each condition.Results: Increase in surge deflection amplitude was proportional to the increase in vacuum pressure (P <.0001). At all vacuum pressures, there was no significant relation between surge deflection amplitude and bottle height. Amplitude of pressure fluctuations in the chamber did not fall below the irrigating pressure if the bottles were kept 70 cm at a vacuum pressure of 200 mm Hg, and 85 cm at a vacuum pressure of 300 mm Hg. At a vacuum pressure of 400 mm Hg, surge deflection amplitude always exceeded irrigating pressure, even if the bottle height of 90 cm was chosen.Conclusion: Increases in vacuum pressure led to increase in amplitude of occlusion break surge. Elevation of the infusion bottle did not decrease the amplitude of occlusion break surge, but increased the pressure in the chamber at the beginning of the surge and prevented the pressure in the chamber from falling below the irrigating pressure.

Initial analysis of immunochemical cell surface properties, location and formation of the serotonergic apical ganglion in sea urchin embryos

In the present study it was found that serotonergic apical ganglion (SAG)-forming cells in plutei of the sea urchin, Hemicentrotus pulcherrimus, possessed a characteristic pear shape with broad apical sides and a pointed basal side in the acron epithelium. The basal side extended axons through the space between the epithelium and the basal lamina toward the midline of the embryo that aligned parallel to the embryonic anteroposterior axis. Serotonergic apical ganglion-forming cells had epithelial cell surface-specific proteins on their entire surface. The SAG in 4-arm plutei was composed of a 4-cell trunk region that aligned at right angles to the embryonic anteroposterior axis, and forked into two branches of one to two cells at both ends. Two branches extended toward the oral and the other two toward the aboral region, respectively. Double-stained immunohistochemistry using antiserotonin antibodies and oral ectoderm-specific anti-Ecto V monoclonal antibody or aboral ectoderm-specific anti-Ars antibodies indicated that SAG was in the aboral ectoderm region. Serotonergic apical ganglion cells were first detected in late gastrulae and increased in number rapidly between 36 and 48 h after fertilization, and then slowly afterwards. A 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine incorporation study indicated that none of the increased SAG cells were in the S phase during the aforementioned period, suggesting that SAG cells do not proliferate by cell division, but acquire the property in particular cells by transdifferentiation using a mechanism that has yet to be elucidated.

Removing silicone oil droplets from the posterior surface of silicone intraocular lenses

A 67-year-old woman had droplets of silicone oil adhering to her silicone intraocular lens (IOL) resulting from a previous silicone oil tamponade. A lens hook and intraocular irrigation were used in conjunction by inserting an infusion cannula to remove the droplets. This restored clarity of the visual axis, improved visual acuity, and eliminated the need for IOL replacement. The technique is simple and less invasive than IOL exchange and may become the preferred way to remove silicone droplets from an IOL.

Phosphorylation of the GTS1 gene product of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and its effect on heat tolerance and flocculation

The GTS1 gene from the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae showed pleiotropic effects on yeast phenotypes, including an increase of heat tolerance in stationary-phase cells and an induction of flocculation. Here, we found that the GTS1 product, Gts1p, was partially phosphorylated at some serine residue(s) in cells grown on glucose. Studies using mutants of protein kinase A (PKA) and CDC25, the Ras-GTP exchange activator, showed that PKA positively regulated the phosphorylation level of Gts1p. Overexpression of Gts1p in a mutant with attenuated PKA activity did not show any increase of heat tolerance and partially decreased flocculation inducibility, suggesting that phosphorylation of Gts1p is required for induction of these phenomena.

[Clinical and experimental observation of glistening in acrylic intraocular lenses]

PURPOSE

To study whether the glistening on implanted acrylic intracular lenses increases or not.

METHOD

1. Prospective study: We studied the glistening on 49 implanted acrylic intraocular lenses, particularly the time of appearance and increase after glistening appeared. 2.

EXPERIMENT

We kept an intraocular lens immersed in saline solution at 50 degrees centigrade for two hours and then moved this lens into saline solution at 35 degrees centigrade, and observed this lens during immersion.

RESULTS

1. Prospective study: Glistening was present in 28 eyes (57%), and appeared from 2 to 16 months postoperatively. A few months after appearance it become stable and did not increase further. 2.

EXPERIMENT

On the 10th day after observation, we could see glistening on the lenses. The points of glistening were 10 microns or less in size, and did not change during 60 days of observation.

CONCLUSION

The glistening in acrylic intraocular lenses seemed to become stable a few months after appearance. This our experimental method is useful, because it gives us glistening similar to clinical cases in a short time.

[In vitro evaluation of pressure fluctuations with differing height of the infusion bottle in phacoemulsification]

PURPOSE

To investigate the influence of the height of the infusion bottle and vacuum pressure on the development of an occlusion break surge in an in vitro model of the anterior chamber of the eye.

METHODS

We employed a rigid chamber device to simulate the anterior chamber of the human eye and performed phacoemulsification with a synthetic nucleus. We evaluated amplitude of pressure fluctuations in the chamber. An experimental occlusion break surge was produced at vacuum pressures of 200, 300, and 400 mmHg. For each vacuum setting, the height of the infusion bottle was preset from 60 to 90 cm at intervals of 5 cm. We performed 6 measurements for each condition.

RESULTS

Increase in surge deflection amplitude was proportional to the increase in vacuum pressure (p < 0.0001). At all vacuum pressures, there was no significant relation between surge deflection amplitude and bottle height. Amplitude of pressure fluctuations in the chamber did not fall below the irrigating pressure if the bottles were kept 70 cm at a vacuum pressure of 200 mmHg, and 85 cm at a vacuum pressure of 300 mmHg. At a vacuum pressure of 400 mmHg, surge deflection amplitude always exceeded irrigating pressure, even if the bottle height of 90 cm was chosen.

CONCLUSION

Increases in vacuum pressure led to increase in amplitude of occlusion break surge. Elevation of the infusion bottle did not decrease the amplitude of occlusion break surge, but increased the pressure in the chamber at the beginning of the surge and prevented the pressure in the chamber from falling below the irrigating pressure.

[Pediatric cataract surgery with posterior capsulorrhexis and optic capture of the intraocular lens]

We evaluated the result of the pediatric cataract surgery with optic capture. The intraocular lens (IOL) optic is subluxated to the vitreous body side through the posterior continuous curvilinear capsulorrhexis (PCCC). Five eyes with congenital or developmental cataracts were treated with phacoemulsification and IOL implantation, and then PCCC and optic capture was done. Three of the cases were bilateral and one case was unilateral. All cases have remained in good condition without secondary fibrous membrane formation, which influences visual acuity, and transparency of the posterior capsule was maintained in the visual axis area. We found one case of anterior capsule contraction. Long-term follow up should be continued.

[Accuracy of intraocular power calculation formulas]

PURPOSE

We examined the accuracy of intraocular lens power calculation formulas, with special emphasis on the prediction of refraction in different axial lengths.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

786 cases were subdivided into four groups based on the axial length (short axial length < 22.0 mm, normal axial length = 22-24.4 mm, mid-range axial length = 24.5-26.9 mm and long axial length > 27 mm). Seven different formulas (Holladay, SRK, SRK II, SRK/T, S-SRK, M-SRK, L-SRK) were tested for their accuracy in predicting post-operative refraction.

RESULT

The best results were obtained using the S-SRK formula in the short axial length group (n = 114), The SRK and Holladay formulas in the normal axial length group (n = 278). The Holladay and SRK/T formulas in the mid-range axial length group (n = 135), and the SRK/T and L-SRK in the long axial length group (n = 259).

CONCLUSION

Our results emphasize the importance of using an intraocular lens formula specific for each range of axial length when calculating the predicted refraction.

[Vascular endothelial growth factor levels in the aqueous and serum in diabetic retinopathy with or without neovascular glaucoma]

We determined the levels of vascular endothelial growth factor/vascular permeability factor (VEGF/VPF) in the aqueous and serum in non-insulin dependent diabetic patients with proliferative retinopathy (n = 12) and neovascular glaucoma (n = 11). The aqueous levels of PEGF/VPF were significantly higher in both groups than in 10 diabetics without such complications. The levels were very high in patients with neovascular glaucoma, suggesting that VEGF/VPF is involved in the pathogenesis and progression of diabetic neovascular glaucoma. The serum levels were not significantly related to the presence or the stage of retinopathy. The findings suggest the possibility of treatment of neovascular glaucoma using anti- VRGF/VFP preparations.

Analysis of preoperative factors predictive of visual acuity in axial myopia

PURPOSE

To identify the factors predicting visual acuity after cataract surgery in patients with high myopia.

SETTING

Departments of Ophthalmology, Showa University School of Medicine and Showa University Fujigaoka Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan.

METHODS

Stepwise regression analysis was used to identify the factors determining the visual acuity in 940 eyes with an axial length of 27.0 mm or longer having cataract surgery. Using a formula derived from the stepwise regression analysis, the predicted postoperative visual acuity was compared with the actual value measured in another group of 104 eyes.

RESULTS

Five factors were identified to significantly determine postoperative visual acuity: axial length, age, corneal opacity, refractive power of the cornea, and history of retinal detachment surgery. There was a significant relationship between predicted and actual postoperative visual acuities (r = .51, P < .001). Postoperative visual acuity was similar in 63% of cases.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that at least five factors determine visual acuity after cataract surgery in patients with high myopia.

Toxicity profile of benzo[a]pyrene in the male LacZ transgenic mouse (MutaMouse) following oral administration for 5 consecutive days

The toxicity profile of benzo[a]pyrene (BP) was examined in the MutaMouse. The transgenic mouse integrated with lambda gt10 lacZ vectors is used worldwide as an experimental animal in in vivo mutagenesis testing systems. There are few toxicity studies including carcinogenicity in the MutaMouse, and so far only a few carcinogenicity studies of BP accompanied with hematological and plasma biochemical examinations have been conducted even in generic mice. Accordingly, male mice were orally administered BP at doses of 75 and 125 mg/kg/day for 5 consecutive days, and complete autopsy was conducted together with pathological, hematological, and plasma biochemical examinations and measurement of organ weights 41 weeks after the last treatment. Squamous cell papilloma and hyperplasia in the forestomach were induced at incidences of 25 and 50%, respectively and were induced 26 weeks after the final treatment without any significant alterations in t he hematological and plasma biochemical parameters in mice of the 125 mg/kg/day BP-treated satellite group. Fourty-one weeks after the final treatments, 75 and 125 mg/kg/day BP induced squamous cell carcinoma, papilloma, and hyperplasia in the forestomach at incidences of 18 and 18%, 36 and 45%, and 91 and 91%, respectively, and anemia possibly due to continuous hemorrhage from tumors in the forestomach. BP (125 mg/kg/day) also produced malignant lymphoma with an incidence of 18%, accompanied by a marked increase in leukocyte count and decrease in erythrocyte count and by a remarkable decrease in body weights 26 and 39 weeks after the last treatment. Moreover, administration of 75 and 125 mg/kg/day BP induced bronchiolar-alveolar hyperplasia in the lung at incidences of 18 and 9%, respectively. Slight increases were also observed in the weight of the liver and in the levels of urea nitrogen, creatinine, and potassium ion in the plasma biochemical examinations, although no significant pathological alterations were found in the liver and kidney. This study provides new information about BP toxicity including carcinogenicity in the MutaMouse developed for in vivo mutational analysis.

Three year prospective, randomized evaluation of intraocular lens implantation through 3.2 and 5.5 mm incisions

PURPOSE

To compare the long-term clinical results of two small incision cataract surgery procedures.

SETTING

Seven centers in Japan.

METHODS

Two hundred eyes were randomly assigned to receive a silicone intraocular lens (IOL) through a 3.2 mm incision or a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) IOL through a 5.5 mm incision. Except for incision size and implantation technique, the surgical methods were identical. Uncorrected and corrected visual acuity, keratometry, flare-cell intensity, specular microscopy, and neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser posterior capsulotomy rate were analyzed up to 3 years after surgery.

RESULTS

Eyes in the 3.2 mm incision group had significantly better uncorrected and corrected visual acuity in the early postoperative period and lower aqueous flare intensity immediately after surgery, but these differences disappeared after the first postoperative month. However, surgically induced astigmatism was significantly less in the 3.2 mm incision group than in the 5.5 incision group throughout the study. The Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy rate was higher in the silicone IOL group (23.5% at 3 years postoperatively) than in the PMMA IOL group (18.4%) but the difference was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

Smaller incision cataract surgery led to early recovery of visual function in the short term and less induced astigmatism in the long term.

Antitumor effects of SEF19, a new nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor, on 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced mammary tumors in rats

The antitumor and endocrine effects of a new nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor, 2-(imidazol-1-yl)-4,6-dimorphorino-l, 3, 5-triazine (SEF19) were examined in female Sprague-Dawley rats bearing estrogen dependent 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene(DMBA)-induced mammary tumors, and the effects were compared with those of CGS20267. The rats bearing DMBA-induced mammary tumors within 6-15 weeks after the DMBA administration were divided into the treatment groups once a week every week, and they were treated with SEF19, CGS20267 and vehicle for 4 weeks. One hundred rats were sacrificed 4 hours after the last administration, and the remaining 60 rats were sacrificed after a 4-week recovery period. During the treatment and recovery period, the tumor size was generally smaller in the SEF19 and CGS20267-treated subgroups than in the control subgroup. Tumor sizes in the subgroups treated with high doses of SEF19 (25 mg/kg/day and 50 mg/kg/2 days) were reduced to the size of the CGS20267-treated subgroup. The CGS20267-treated rats showed decrease in the serum estradiol level and an increase in the serum testosterone level. Their uterine weights were reduced. SEF19 treatment failed to show any effect on the serum levels of estrone, estradiol, testosterone and androstenedione, but it suppressed uterine weight in a dose-dependent manner. After the recovery period, no effect was detected in the serum concentrations of steroid hormones and the weight of the organs. At every dose used in the present study the aromatase inhibitory activity of SEF19 was weaker than that of CGS20267, but the inhibitory effect on mammary tumor growth of SEF19 at high doses was comparable to that of CGS20267. We conclude that the antitumor effect of SEF19 is not due to aromatase inhibition but mainly to its direct cytotoxicity.

In vitro cytotoxicity of imidazolyl-1,3,5-triazine derivatives

We examined in vitro cytotoxic activity of imidazolyl-1,3,5-triazine derivatives using human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7, R-27, T-47D and ZR-75-1) and murine leukemia cell line (P388). The percentage of viable cells was determined by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazorium bromide (MTT) assay. Hexamethylmelamine (HMM), a 1,3,5-triazine derivative has previously been recognized as an antitumor agent effective against lung, ovarian and breast cancer, but failed to show a significant cytotoxic activity in the present study. In contrast, four imidazolyl-1,3,5-triazine derivatives, 2-(1-imidazolyl)-4,6-bis(morpholino)-1,3,5-triazine, 2-(1-imidazolyl)-4-morpholino-6-(3-thiazolidinyl)-1,3,5-triazine, 2-(4-cyano-4-phenylpiperidino)-4-(1-imidazolyl)-6-morpholino-1,3,5-triaz ine and 2-(1-imidazolyl)-4-(N-methyl-N-phenylamino)-6-morpholino-1,3,5-triazine showed cytotoxic activity for most cell lines, which was significantly greater than the activity of hydroxymethylpentamethylmelamine (HMPMM), a major metabolite of HMM.

[Ultrastructural study of lens in rat hereditary cataract by quick-freezing and deep-etching]

The cytoskeleton of lens fiber cells in rats with hereditary cataract (ICR/f) was studied by quick-freezing and deep-etching. Two kinds of filamentous structure with diameters of 5 and 10 approximately 15 nm were observed in the cortical fiber cells. They showed meshwork structures which were buried in globular particles. These filamentous structures were mostly absent in the nucleus fiber cells, but aggregated and fused globular particles with diameters of 10 approximately 20 nm were observed. Small cavities were sometimes observed in their cytoplasm. Between lens fiber cells, many globular structures were also seen. These changes might represent the degeneration of the lens fiber cells in cataract lenses.

Synthesis and aromatase-inhibitory activity of imidazolyl-1,3,5-triazine derivatives

Triamino-substituted 1,3,5-triazine derivatives were synthesized and tested for inhibitory activities against the aromatase of human placental microsomes and the cytochrome P450 side chain cleavage of cholesterol (P450SCC) of pig adrenal mitochondria. The compounds having imidazolyl and tertiary amino groups as substituents in the 1,3,5-triazine ring showed significant aromatase-inhibitory activity. Among them, compounds 17, 23, 26, 27 and 28 were more active than the reference compound, CGS 16949A. The inhibitory activities of these compounds against P450SCC were much weaker than their aromatase-inhibitory activities. These compounds may be regarded as selective aromatase inhibitors.

The pleiotropic effect of the GTS1 gene product on heat tolerance, sporulation and the life span of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

We investigated whether or not the potential clock gene, GTS1, of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, shows pleiotropic effects on the yeast cellular processes. We tested the efect of the Gts1 protein on heat tolerance, sporulation and life-span, by characterizing the phenotypes of transformants with different copy numbers of the gene. We found that the Gts1 protein affects the capacity of heat tolerance in the stationary phase and the speed leading to sporulation in a gene-dose dependent manner, and that both inactivation and overexpression of the gene shortened the life-span of yeast. These results supported the notion that GTS1 affects the biological clock of the yeast S. cerevisiae, although this cannot be definitively concluded because the strain cannot be synchronized with circadian or ultradian rhythms.

Two year clinical study of a soft acrylic intraocular lens

PURPOSE

To assess the efficacy and safety of a soft acrylic intraocular lens (IOL) in small incision cataract surgery.

METHODS

Sixty-four eyes of 64 patients (mean age 71.0 +/- 7.7 [SD] years) who had phacoemulsification and implantation of a soft acrylic IOL were followed for 2 years.

RESULTS

At day 1, 96.9% of patients had corrected visual acuity of 20/40 or better, and 50.0% had 20/20 or better. At 2 years postoperatively, 100% had 20/40 or better, and 86.3% had 20/20. Surgically induced keratometric cylinder remained quite stable throughout the 2 year follow-up period, with axis-based astigmatism of +/- 0.3 diopters. Flare intensity measured with the laser flare-cell meter was less than that with other type of IOLs measured, including poly(methyl methacrylate) and silicone. Neodymium:YAG laser capsulotomy was performed in seven cases (11.1%). without causing damage to the optic. No other postoperative complications were encountered.

CONCLUSION

Soft acrylic IOLs have clinically apparent advantages in small incision cataract surgery.

[Ultrastructural study of lens fiber cells by quick-freezing and deep-etching]

The ultrastructure of lens fiber cytoskeleton was studied by quick-freezing and deep-etching. Lenses of 5 Wistar male rats were divided into lens cortex and lens nucleus. Filamentous structures were clearly observed in the cortical fiber cells, which had diameters in 10 approximately 15 nm or about 5 nm. They showed a meshwork structure. On the other hand, the filamentous structures showed a linear, dense, and laminar pattern in the nuclear fiber cells. These ultrastructural changes of cytoskeletons may be related to the elongation and differentiation of lens fiber cells and may be important for maintaining transparency of the lens.

[An intraocular lens power calculation for high myopia]

The accuracy of intraocular lens power calculation formulas for the axial high myopia were examined, especially regarding the point of the predictive refraction. We examined 170 eyes with axial lengths of 27 mm or longer, with postoperative visual acuity of 0.5 or more, and postoperative astigmatism of less than +/- 2D. Five formulas were tested for accuracy in predicting postoperative refraction. They were the L-SRK, SRK, SRK II, SRK/T, and Binkhorst formulas. The SRK formula tended to predict less myopia than the actual postoperative refraction. The SRK II and Binkhorst formulas predicted more myopia than the actual postoperative refraction. The best results were produced by the L-SRK and SRK/T formulas. The accuracy of the L-SRK formula predictions were measured for each of the four myopic levels. The same was done for the SRK/T formula. For both formulas, there was no statistically significant difference in accuracy of prediction for the four myopic categories. The two formulas are considered to be useful for high myopic cases.

Preferred postoperative refraction after cataract surgery for high myopia

Eighty-four patients (121 eyes) with high myopia who had cataract surgery and intraocular lens implantation completed a survey on preferred postoperative refraction. Forty-two percent of the sample reported that they were accustomed to removing their glasses to read a newspaper or book. These respondents were fitted with soft contact lenses and their refraction changed to 0 D, -3.00 D, and -5.00 D. Of the patients whose best corrected postoperative visual acuity was 20/40 or better (n = 63), 48% preferred the -3.00 D correction; 38%, the 0 D correction; and 14%, -5.00 D. Of those with a best corrected postoperative visual acuity worse than 20/200 (n = 8), 80% preferred the -5.00 D refraction, which allowed them to read close up. Most patients with phakic eyes and good visual acuity (n = 13) preferred the 0 D and -3.00 D corrections. Our results indicate that in patients with high myopia, it is important to take patient preference into account when selecting postoperative refraction.

[The retinal image of three multifocal intraocular lenses through an eye model]

Retinal images produced by two types of multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) were studied using an eye model. One of them was a refractive IOL with five zones, and the other was a diffractive lens. The IOLs were inserted into an eye model with a pupil diameter of 3 mm. The retinal plane of the eye model was observed microscopically. When the section of the IOL used for far vision was in focus, the retinal image of the refractive IOL was almost the same as that of the monofocal IOL, which was better than that of the diffractive IOL. When the near vision section of the IOL was in focus, the retinal image of the diffractive IOL had almost the same quality as the far section. The light rings produced when the multifocal IOLs were illuminated by a glare source were also examined. They showed that the diffractive IOL was stronger than the refractive IOL, but the monofocal was the smallest of the three.

The GTS1 gene, which contains a Gly-Thr repeat, affects the timing of budding and cell size of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae

A gene with an open reading frame encoding a protein of 417 amino acid residues with a Gly-Thr repeat was isolated from the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae by using synthetic oligonucleotides encoding three Gly-Thr dimers as probes. The deduced amino acid sequence showed partial homology to the clock-affecting gene, per, of Drosophila melanogaster in the regions including the GT repeat. The function of the gene, named GTS1, was examined by characterizing the phenotypes of transformants with different copy numbers of the GTS1 gene produced either by inactivating the GTS1 gene by gene disruption (TM delta gts1) or by transformation with multicopy plasmid pPER119 (TMpGTS1). They grew at similar rates during the exponential growth phase, but the lag phases were shorter for TM delta gts1 and longer for TMpGTS1 cells than that for the wild type. Analyses of their cell cycle parameters using synchronized cells revealed that the unbudding period changed as a function of gene dosage; that is, the periods of TM delta gts1 and TMpGTS1 were about 20% shorter and longer, respectively, than that of the wild-type. Another significant change in the transformants was detected in the distribution of the cell size. The mean cell volume of the TM delta gts1 cells in the unbudded period (single cells) was 27% smaller than that of single wild-type cells, whereas that of single TMpGTS1 cells was 48% larger. Furthermore, in the temperature-sensitive cdc4 mutant, the GTS1 gene affected the timing of budding at the restrictive temperature. Thus, the GTS1 gene product appears to modulate the timing of budding to obtain an appropriate cell size independent of the DNA replication cycle.

Comparative study of intraocular lens implantation through 3.2- and 5.5-mm incisions

PURPOSE

To prospectively and comprehensively compare the clinical results of two small-incision cataract surgery procedures, silicone intraocular lens (refractive index of 1.46) implantation through a 3.2-mm incision and polymethylmethacrylate intraocular lens implantation through a 5.5-mm incision.

METHODS

Two hundred eyes with cataract randomly were assigned to either procedure. Except for incision size, identical surgical methods were used in every case. Data on uncorrected and corrected visual acuity, keratometry, corneal topography, flare-cell measurement, fluorophotometry, specular microscopy, glare disability measurement, and photographic examination of intraocular lens decentration were analyzed up to 6 months after surgery.

RESULTS

Eyes in the 3.2-mm incision group displayed significantly better uncorrected and corrected visual acuity in the early postoperative period, lower aqueous flare intensity and cell counts immediately after surgery, less operatively induced astigmatism throughout the study period, and less corneal topographic changes taken 3 months after surgery. No significant between-group differences were noted for other parameters. Complications in the two groups were few and comparable.

CONCLUSION

Both procedures of small-incision cataract surgery offered satisfactory clinical results, but 3.2-mm incision cataract surgery allowed significantly earlier recovery of visual function and better preservation of corneal shape.

[Small incision cataract surgery-silicone intraocular lens vs polymethylmethacrylate intraocular lens]

We compared the postsurgical results of two small incision cataract surgery procedures: silicone intraocular lens implantation through a 3.2 mm incision and polymethylmethacrylate intraocular lens implantation through a 5.5 mm incision. One hundred fifty eyes of 124 patients were randomly assigned to either procedure, and the patients underwent phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation without sutures or scleral cautery. Identical surgical techniques were employed in each case except for the size of the incision. Patients in the 3.2 mm incision group showed: (1) better uncorrected and corrected visual acuity in the early postoperative period, (2) lower aqueous flare intensity immediately after surgery, (3) less operatively induced corneal astigmatism throughout the study period up to 3 months after surgery, and (4) less corneal topographic change, i.e., less corneal flattening, 3 months after surgery. There were no significant differences between groups in the corneal endothelial cell loss, blood-aqueous barrier permeability measured by fluorophotometry, or postoperative complications. It was concluded that both procedures offer highly satisfactory clinical results, but that the 3.2 mm incision surgery allows a significantly earlier recovery of visual function and less surgery-induced corneal astigmatism.

Experimental study of small intraocular lenses using an eye model

Contrast and glare tests were performed on small intraocular lenses (IOLs) using a new eye model, which was based on and about the same size as the Gullstrand eye model. Lenses with a small optic diameter were inserted and retinal images were observed under the operating microscope. Contrast and glare disability tests were done using the MCT-8000 contrast tester and the Miller-Nadler glare tester. No effect on contrast sensitivity attributable to glare was observed, but under severe glare light conditions a faint reflection around the circumference of the optic was found. Questionnaires from patients implanted with small optic IOLs confirmed that this phenomenon was similar to their symptoms.

A new endoscope for ophthalmic microsurgery

We present an endoscope designed for ophthalmic microsurgery. The handpiece contains a charge-coupled device, a solid-state imager (250,000 pixels), and a probe (either 0.89 or 1.5 mm in diameter), including the light guide. The light source is a halogen lamp. The clear views the instrument provides of the ciliary sulcus and ciliary body behind the iris make it useful in secondary posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation using the ciliary sulcus suturing technique, and in endolaser photocoagulation of the ciliary body in end-stage glaucoma. It also is useful in performing vitrectomy in cases in which visualization is difficult because of corneal opacification or fluid-gas exchange.

Modified SRK formula for axial myopia (24.5 mm < or = axial length < 27.0 mm)

When used for eyes with greater than average axial length (AXL), the SRK formula has been reported to have a tendency to yield more myopic refractions than those predicted. To further evaluate such findings, we studied 609 eyes with AXLs between 24.5 and 27.0 mm. Comparing the predicted with the actual refractions and calculating the range of errors, we found that the postoperative refractions were more myopic than predicted. Then, based on our evaluation of the relationship between the postoperative refractions and the powers of the implanted intraocular lenses (IOLs), we devised the following formula: R = 0.8 x (P - I) + 0.57 (P < .01) in which R = the postoperative refraction; P = the emmetropic IOL power; and I = the actual IOL power. Testing this modified SRK formula in 55 additional eyes, we found that the predicted postoperative refractions it yielded were more accurate than those calculated using five earlier formulas.

Long-term study of children with implanted intraocular lenses

We studied children between five and 15 years of age who were implanted with intraocular lenses (IOLs). The subjects comprised eight cases of traumatic cataract, 11 of congenital cataract, and six of steroid cataract. The follow-up ranged from four months to nine and one half years. Twenty of the eyes studied achieved a postoperative visual acuity of equal to or better than 20/40. Binocular function was retained in most cases. Postoperative complications included seven cases of posterior iris synechia, three of iris capture, one of transitory elevated intraocular pressure, and one of cystoid macular edema. Corneal endothelial studies were normal in the eyes in which posterior chamber IOLs were implanted.

Sulcus fixation of posterior chamber lenses by transscleral sutures

Sulcus fixation of posterior chamber lenses by transscleral sutures was performed in 23 cases. We used new techniques to be sure that the sulcus was pierced accurately and the suture was placed in the posterior chamber instead of the ruptured capsule. This paper describes these techniques and the clinical results of 23 cases.

Antitumor activity of MST-16, a novel derivative of bis(2,6-dioxopiperazine), in murine tumor models

We studied the antitumor activity of newly synthesized bis(1-acyloxymethyl) derivatives of 4,4'-(1,2-ethanediyl)bis(2,6-piperazinedione) using i.p.-i.p. models of P388 leukemia and B16 myeloma. As a result, we found 4,4'-(1,2-ethanediyl)bis(1-isobutoxycarbonyloxymethyl-2,6-piperazi nedione) (MST-16) to possess considerable therapeutic activity. MST-16 showed not only marked life-prolonging effects in both P388 leukemia- and B16 melanoma-bearing mice but also a greater therapeutic ratio than did its parent compounds, ICRF-154 and ICRF-159. Further studies revealed that MST-16 has considerable therapeutic activity against a number of other tumors such as ascitic forms of L1210 leukemia, colon 26 adenocarcinoma, and MH-134 hepatoma and solid forms of B16 melanoma, Lewis lung carcinoma, colon 38 adenocarcinoma, and M5076 fibrosarcoma. These results suggest that MST-16 is very promising as an antitumor agent.

Synthesis and antitumor properties of N1-acyloxymethyl derivatives of bis(2,6-dioxopiperazines)

Many N1-acyloxymethyl derivatives VI of bis(2,6-dioxopiperazine) I, ICRF-154, were prepared and tested for antitumor activity. The treatment of I with formaldehyde gave a crystalline bis(N1-hydroxymethyl) derivative VII, which was acylated under various conditions to give bis(N1-acyloxymethyl) derivatives VI. Antitumor activity of VI against P388 leukemia in mice was studied. Several bis(N1-acyloxymethyl) compounds such as phenylacetyloxymethyl VI-6, methoxycarbonyloxymethyl VI-41, isobutoxycarbonyloxymethyl VI-44, and furancarboxymethyl VI-38 compounds were found to have potent antitumor activities. On the other hand, water-soluble esters having an amine or a carboxylic acid function in their acyl groups showed rather reduced activity. These bis(N1-acyloxymethyl) derivatives VI were presumably hydrolyzed into the parent bis(2,6-dioxopiperazine) I by nonspecific esterase in the body to exhibit their antitumor activity.

[Results of fetoscopic examinations at our hospital]

From 1983 to 1985, antenatal diagnosis by fetoscopy under ultrasound guidance has been performed at our institute for 17 pregnant women between 15 and 34 weeks of gestation. Indications for fetoscopy were visualization of the fetus, placenta, and amniotic membrane for morphological anomaly and fetal blood sampling for coagulation disorder. The diagnosis, made by visual observation of the fetus, blood coagulation tests, and karyotyping revealed 12 normal fetuses and 5 abnormal fetuses (one having chromosome abnormality, one amniotic band syndrome, one cephalothracopagus, one Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, and one sacral tumor). Courses of pregnancy following fetoscopy resulted in four normal full-term deliveries, six premature deliveries due to four hydramnions and two spontaneous ruptures of the membrane more than 14 weeks after fetoscopy. Three other pregnancies were interrupted due to intrauterine fetal death 11 weeks after fetoscopy in one case and to therapeutic abortion for maternal complications such as toxemia of pregnancy in two cases. The outcome of one case was unknown because the mother had moved away. The other pregnancy is still under observation at the third trimester. Although no complications in the fetuses were seen following fetoscopy, complications in the mothers included two cases of genital bleeding, one case of amniotic fluid leakage, and one cases of abruption of the fetal membrane. Symptoms in all four cases disappeared during several days of bed rest. These results demonstrate the importance of fetoscopy in prenatal diagnosis.

Abnormally large placenta associated with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome

A 37-year-old G1-P1 was diagnosed by ultrasonography at 26 weeks of gestation as having an abnormally large placenta with hemangiomas and a fetus associated with exomphalos. Placental protein 5 levels were relatively high in placental protein levels in maternal serum. The infant, delivered by cesarean section at 34 weeks, had the typical clinical features associated with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome. The abnormally large placenta weighed 1,492 g, measured 25 X 25 X 5.1 cm, and featured multiple hemangiomas. Microscopic placental features included edematous villi, increased fibrin deposition, intervillous thrombi, and multiple angiomatous and cellular chorangiomas.

Study on the contraction and oxygen consumption induced by high K, Na-deficient solution in the urinary bladder and gall bladder of guinea-pig

In urinary bladder and gall bladder of guinea-pig, the application of hyperosmotic 65.4 mM K solution induced a tonic contraction and increased the rate of oxygen consumption two or three times. The increased O2 consumption maintained steady level during 120 min. In isosmotic 154 mM K, Na-deficient solution, the tonic contraction gradually decreased and oxygen consumption also showed a transient increase followed by a small one. In the urinary bladder, the addition of pyruvic acid completely prevented the decline of the tonic contraction by iso-154K solution at 120 min, but this addition partially prevented it in the gall bladder. Hyperosmotic application of sucrose partially prevented it in the urinary bladder, but completely recovered it in the gall bladder. When NaCl was applied to iso-154K solution, the decrease of tonic contraction was prevented by half in both the muscles. The application of pyruvic acid and NaCl prevented the reduction of oxygen consumption by iso-154K solution in the urinary bladder, but in the gall bladder, this had little effect. There was a close correlation (r = 0.950) between the muscle tension and the rate of oxygen consumption in the urinary bladder at 120 min under various conditions. In the gall bladder, a correlation (r = 0.875) was also found between both when the results by hyperosmotic addition of NaCl and sucrose were omitted. In the urinary bladder, tension cost, a ratio of O2 consumption rate (mumol O2/g/min) to developed tension (kg force/cm2), was large (0.206) and similar to that of taenia coli; and that of gall bladder was small (0.130) and almost similar to that of vascular smooth muscle.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

A comparative study on the contraction induced by high K/Na deficient solution in the trachea, gall bladder and urinary bladder in guinea-pig

In the present paper, a comparative study of high K solution was carried out on the mechanical response, wet and dry weights of tissue, and extracellular space of 14C-sorbitol in the trachea, gall bladder, and urinary bladder of guinea-pig. Hyperosmotic addition of KCl to the physiological solution produced a sustained contraction, while isosmotic substitution of K for Na in the physiological solution induced a contraction followed by a small sustained one in the trachea, gall bladder or urinary bladder. At 120 min after application of the substituted KCl, Na deficient solution, it increased cell water content in the smooth muscle cells of the trachea or gall bladder, but did not change that in the urinary bladder. Both the inhibition of contraction and the swelling in the trachea or gall bladder were prevented by the hyperosmotic application of sucrose or NaCl. The substitution for NaCl with the K salts with more permeable anions (I- greater than NO3- greater than Cl-) produced a greater inhibition of contraction in the trachea and gall bladder. Although the impermeable anion C2H5CO2- did not inhibit the contraction in the trachea, this anion partially inhibited it in the gall bladder. On the other hand, the inhibition of contraction in the urinary bladder was prevented by addition of pyruvate, oxalacetate or NaCl.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

[Immuno-electron microscopy study of Toxoplasma gondii. II. Study of IgM antibodies]

This paper deals with an immunoelectron microscopic study of the localization of IgM vector on the membrane of Toxoplasma gondii using the antibody at the early period of infection. The primary antibody was IgM antibody obtained from rabbit's serum 11 days after the infection of Beverley strain of Toxoplasma gondii from which IgG was absorbed by protein A containing staphylococcus. Ferritine-labeled antibody against rabbit's IgM was used as the secondary antibody. The surface of normal tachyzoites is smooth with two layered plasma membrane. The outer layer shows a three-layer structure which is not found in the inner membrane. The inner membrane is discontinuous with partially lost portion at the head of the tachyzoites. Structure within plasma include conoid toxonems, dark staining vacuoles and nucleus. By reacting with the ferritin-labeled antibody, ferritin particles were found on all over the circumference of the tachyzoites depositing on the surface of the outer plasma membrane, but few on the inner plasma membrane and organelles. It implies that IgM receptors are localized on the membrane surface similarly with our preceding report.