The Effect of a Deproteinizing Pretreatment on the Bonding Performance and Acid Resistance of a Two-step Self-etch Adhesive on Eroded Dentin

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated how deproteinization using sodium hypochlorite (6% NaOCl) or hypochlorous acid (50 ppm HOCl) with or without the subsequent use of an arylsulfinate salt-containing agent (Clearfil DC Activator; DCA; Kuraray Noritake Dental) affects the micro-tensile bond strength (μTBS) and formation of an acid-base resistant zone (ABRZ) of a two-step self-etch adhesive on eroded dentin.

METHODS

Coronal dentin surfaces of sound human molars were exposed to 48 cycles of demineralization (1% citric acid; 5 minutes) and remineralization (buffer solution with pH=6.4; 3.5 hours). They were then assigned to experimental groups according to the pretreatment used: none (negative control), NaOCl, NaOCl+DCA, HOCl, and HOCl+DCA. Sound dentin surfaces with no pretreatment were used as a positive control. The dentin surfaces were bonded with Clearfil SE Bond 2 (Kuraray Noritake Dental), and μTBS was measured either after 24 hours or 20,000 thermal cycles (TC). The μTBS data were statistically analyzed using a mixed-model analysis of variance (ANOVA) and t-tests with Bonferroni correction. Failure mode was determined with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which was also used for the observation of ABRZ.

RESULTS

Among experimental groups, there was no significant difference between the negative control, HOCl, and HOCl+DCA after 24 hours, but the HOCl-pretreated groups exhibited significantly higher μTBS than the negative control after TC (p<0.01). Pretreatment with NaOCl and NaOCl+DCA resulted in significantly higher μTBS (p<0.001), but the highest μTBS was measured on sound dentin (p<0.001). TC decreased μTBS significantly in all groups (p<0.001) except for sound dentin and NaOCl+DCA (p>0.05). Adhesive failures prevailed in eroded groups, whereas cohesive failures were predominant on sound dentin. ABRZ was recognized in all groups but marked morphological differences were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The combined use of 6% NaOCl and the arylsulfinate salt-containing agent partially reversed the compromised bonding performance on eroded dentin, while the effect of 50 ppm HOCl was negligible.

Restoration of a Microdont Using the Resin Composite Injection Technique With a Fully Digital Workflow: A Flexible 3D-printed Index With a Stabilization Holder

Direct composite restorations are accepted as a treatment option for microdontia, which is a relatively prevalent condition that poses esthetic concerns. While free-hand composite placement is technique-sensitive and time-consuming, the resin composite injection technique is more straightforward and predictable. A fully digital workflow has been recently introduced, but the 3D-printed resin index is rigid and challenged by undercuts, as opposed to the silicone index. This case report presents a flexible 3D-printed resin index, which can accurately transfer the digitally simulated functional and esthetic form to the final restoration. In addition, a rigid stabilization holder was designed to stabilize the flexible index.

Paraganglioma with High Levels of Dopamine, Dopa Decarboxylase Suppression, Dopamine β-hydroxylase Upregulation and Intra-tumoral Melanin Accumulation: A Case Report with a Literature Review

Object Exclusively dopamine-producing pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma (PPGL) is an extremely rare subtype. In this condition, intratumoral dopamine β-hydroxylase (DBH), which controls the conversion of norepinephrine from dopamine, is impaired, resulting in suppressed norepinephrine and epinephrine production. However, the rarity of this type of PPGL hampers the understanding of its pathophysiology. We therefore conducted genetic and immunohistological analyses of a patient with an exclusively dopamine-producing paraganglioma. Methods Paraganglioma samples from a 52-year-old woman who presented with a 29.6- and 41.5-fold increase in plasma and 24-h urinary dopamine, respectively, but only a minor elevation in the plasma norepinephrine level was subjected to immunohistological and gene expression analyses of catecholamine synthases. Three tumors carrying known somatic PPGL-related gene variants (HRAS, EPAS1) were used as controls. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was also performed using the patient's blood and tumor tissue. Results Surprisingly, the protein expression of DBH was not suppressed, and its mRNA expression was clearly higher in the patient than in the controls. Furthermore, dopa decarboxylase (DDC), which governs the conversion of 3,4-dihydroxyphenyl-L-alanine (L-DOPA) to dopamine, was downregulated at the protein and gene levels. In addition, melanin, which is synthesized by L-DOPA, accumulated in the tumor. WES revealed no PPGL-associated pathogenic germline variants, but a missense somatic variant (c.1798G>T) in CSDE1 was identified. Conclusion Although pre-operative plasma L-DOPA was not measured, our histological and gene expression analyses suggest that L-DOPA, rather than dopamine, might have been overproduced in the tumor. This raises the possibility of pathophysiological heterogeneity in exclusively dopamine-producing PPGL.

A case of juvenile-onset pheochromocytoma with KIF1B p.V1529M germline mutation

In 2008, a familial noradrenergic pheochromocytoma (PCC) with a KIF1B germline mutation in exon 41 was reported in a 24-year-old female proband and her family. However, in 2020, the same research group reported that the cause of PCC in this family was a MAX germline mutation and was not due to the KIF1B mutation. In this study, we investigated the pathogenicity of a KIF1B germline mutation detected in a 26-year-old woman with juvenile-onset noradrenergic PCC. She was surgically treated and did not have a family history of PCC. We performed whole-exome sequencing, Sanger sequencing, and immunohistochemical and gene expression analyses of catecholamine-synthesizing enzymes. Three tumors with associated somatic mutations were used as the control group. Whole-exome sequencing revealed a p.V1529M KIF1B germline mutation in exon 41 in our patient, and no other associated germline and somatic mutations, including MAX, were detected. Sanger sequencing confirmed the presence of both mutant and wild-type alleles in the tumor. Among the catecholamine-synthesizing enzymes, the expression of phenylethanolamine-N-methyl transferase was suppressed. An in silico analysis of the p.V1529M mutation showed a score suggestive of pathogenicity. After evaluation with the international guideline for sequence variants, p.V1529M mutation was still classified as a variant with uncertain significance; however, our data, including the in silico analysis data, provided certain evidences that met the criteria supporting its pathogenicity. Therefore, this study can support future studies in proving the pathogenicity of the KIF1B p.V1529M mutation.

Hysterangiales revisited: expanded phylogeny reveals new genera and two new suborders

Hysterangiales (Phallomycetidae, Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota) is a diverse, nearly cosmopolitan order of predominantly hypogeous, sequestrate, ectomycorrhizal fungi. Expanding on previously published phylogenies, we significantly increased sampling of Hysterangiales specimens, emphasizing representatives from Australia. Using protein-coding genes atp6 (adenosine triphosphate synthase subunit 6) and tef1 (translation elongation factor 1-á), we recovered 26 provisional novel genera, and corroborated existing genera and families. Further, two new suborders (Phallogastrineae subord. nov. and Hysterangineae subord. nov.) and a new family (Phallogastraceae fam. nov.) are described, and three new combinations made to Phallogaster. Aspects of classification and biogeography are presented.

Effect of Time and Temperature of Air Jet on the Mechanical and Biological Behavior of a Universal Adhesive System

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the influence of heat application on the degree of conversion (DC) of the 3M Single Bond Universal Adhesive System, as well as its transdentinal cytotoxicity and microtensile bond strength to dentin.

METHODS

Experimental groups were established according to the time and temperature of the air jet: G1: 5 seconds-25°C; G2: 10 seconds-25°C; G3: 20 seconds-25°C; G4: 5 seconds-50°C; G5: 10 seconds-50°C; G6: 20 seconds-50°C. In control group (G7), no treatment was performed. The DC was assessed using the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy-attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR) technique. For the transdentinal cytotoxicity test, dentin discs fitted in artificial pulp chambers (APC) received the application of the adhesive system and the air jets. For the microtensile bond strength, healthy molars were restored and submitted to the microtensile test after 24 hours and 6 months, respectively.

RESULTS

Significant reduction in viability of Mouse Dental Papilla Cell-23 (MDPC-23), which exhibited morphological changes, was observed in all experimental groups compared to control (p<0.05). Although all tested protocols resulted in transdentinal diffusion of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), the group G6 presented the highest degree of monomeric conversion and the lowest cytotoxic effect, with higher dentin bond strength values in comparison to group G1 (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Applying an air blast at 50°C for 20 seconds increases the DC and microtensile bond strength of the 3M Single Bond Universal Adhesive System to dentin, as well as reduces the transdentinal cytotoxicity of the material to pulp cells.

Effect of oxybutynin patch versus mirabegron on nocturia-related quality of life in female overactive bladder patients: A multicenter randomized trial

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effect of oxybutynin patch versus β3-adrenoceptor agonist mirabegron on nocturia-related quality of life in female overactive bladder patients.

METHODS

In the present study, female overactive bladder patients were enrolled. The patients were randomly allocated into two groups: the oxybutynin patch group and the mirabegron group. Each of the drugs was given for 8 weeks. The changes in the total Nocturia Quality of Life Questionnaire score were evaluated. Parameters on a frequency volume chart were also evaluated.

RESULTS

In total, 100 patients (51 oxybutynin patch, 49 mirabegron) were treated with oxybutynin patch or mirabegron. The changes in the Nocturia Quality of Life Questionnaire score 4 weeks after administration were 3.8 ± 18.6 and 8.7 ± 13.1 with the oxybutynin patch group and the mirabegron group, respectively, which were significantly higher than those at the baseline. Furthermore, the changes in the Nocturia Quality of Life Questionnaire score 8 weeks after administration were 4.3 ± 16.5 and 7.7 ± 12.3, respectively. A statistical difference was seen only in the mirabegron group. Regarding the Nocturia Quality of Life Questionnaire subscores, oxybutynin patch and mirabegron significantly improved the Nocturia Quality of Life Questionnaire bother/concern subscore 4 and 8 weeks after administration, whereas the Nocturia Quality of Life Questionnaire sleep/energy subscore was not significantly improved in each period. Eight weeks after administration, 24-h frequency, 24-h urinary urgency and mean voided urine volume were improved in both groups statistically.

CONCLUSIONS

The oxybutynin patch improves quality of life, focusing mainly on nocturia by improving the bother/concern subscores of the Nocturia Quality of Life Questionnaire in the short term.

Genomic Profiling Identified ERCC2 E606Q Mutation in Helicase Domain Respond to Platinum-Based Neoadjuvant Therapy in Urothelial Bladder Cancer

Genomic profiling of tumors enables therapeutic decisions, and identifying drug-matched mutations will prolong survival and prognosis. Here, we generated a custom panel for detecting genetic alterations in 19 patients with urothelial bladder cancer. This panel targeted 71 genes associated with urological cancer. Targeted sequencing was performed on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor tissues. Paired patient-matched tumor and blood samples were subjected to this analysis. A total of 142 somatic mutations were detected in 19 tumor tissues. At least one non-synonymous mutation was detected in all tumor tissues, and KDM6A, KMT2D, TP53, KMT2C, PIK3CA, and ERCC2 were recurrently mutated. Chromatin remodeling and epigenetic modifier genes are frequently mutated. Of 142 mutations, 69 mutations (49%) were annotated to have oncogenic potential. Furthermore, 74% of patients were expected to receive targeted therapy due to drug-matched mutations being identified in their tumors. Among this cohort, a patient harbored an ERCC2 helicase domain mutation and would be expected to respond to platinum-based therapy. As expected, the patient received carboplatin-containing neoadjuvant therapy with a remarkable response. Furthermore, tumor-derived mutations in urine were rapidly decreased after neoadjuvant therapy. These results suggested targeted sequencing could help to detect drug-matched somatic mutations and indicate single or combination therapy for cancer patients.

Degree of Conversion Contributes to Dentin Bonding Durability of Contemporary Universal Adhesives

Clinical Relevance

The degree of conversion of contemporary universal adhesives positively correlates with the bond strength to dentin. The correlation is more marked after thermocycling, suggesting that a high degree of conversion is required for long-term dentin bonding durability.

SUMMARY

Purpose: The objectives of this study were to evaluate the micro-tensile bond strength (μTBS) of five contemporary universal adhesives to dentin after 24 hours and thermocycling (TC), to measure their degrees of conversion (DC) and to test the correlation between μTBS and DC.

Methods and Materials: Four commercially available universal adhesives, Prime&Bond universal (PBU), Ecosite Bond (EB), G-Premio Bond (GPB), and Clearfil Universal Bond Quick (UBQ), and one experimental adhesive, UBQ without an amide monomer (UBQ-A), were used in this study. For the μTBS test, midcoronal dentin of 50 human molars was exposed, ground using 600-grit SiC paper, and the adhesives were applied according to the manufacturers’ instructions. After resin-composite buildup and 24-hour water storage, one-half of the specimens were subjected to 15,000 thermal cycles. The specimens were sectioned into beams and stressed in tension at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min until failure. The DC of adhesives applied to dentin was evaluated using attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy immediately after light-curing. All data were statistically analyzed at a significance level of 0.05.

Results: The highest μTBSs were obtained with UBQ, UBQ-A, and PBU, which were not significantly different from each other both after 24 hours and TC. The μTBS of GPB was lower compared with the aforementioned adhesives, but significantly only after TC, and the lowest μTBSs were obtained with EB. TC did not affect the μTBSs of UBQ, UBQ-A, and PBU significantly, but a significant decrease was observed with GPB and EB. The highest DC was obtained with PBU and UBQ, followed by 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate–rich adhesives UBQ-A and EB, which exhibited significantly lower DCs. The DC of GPB could not be determined because the reference peak at 1608 cm−1 was not detected in its spectra. A significant positive correlation was shown between μTBS and DC after 24 hours (r=0.716) and TC (r=0.856).

Conclusion: μTBS and DC were positively correlated, more markedly after TC, which suggests that DC may be an important factor for bond durability.

Genomic profile of urine has high diagnostic sensitivity compared to cytology in non-invasive urothelial bladder cancer

Cytology is widely conducted for diagnosis of urothelial bladder cancer; however, its sensitivity is still low. Recent studies show that liquid biopsies can reflect tumor genomic profiles. We aim to investigate whether plasma or urine is more suitable for detecting tumor‐derived DNA in patients with early‐stage urothelial bladder cancer. Targeted sequencing of 71 genes was carried out using a total of 150 samples including primary tumor, urine supernatant, urine precipitation, plasma and buffy coat from 25 patients with bladder cancer and five patients with cystitis and benign tumor. We compared mutation profiles between each sample, identified tumor‐identical mutations and compared tumor diagnostic sensitivities between urine and conventional cytology. We identified a total of 168 somatic mutations in primary tumor. In liquid biopsies, tumor‐identical mutations were found at 53% (89/168) in urine supernatant, 48% (81/168) in urine precipitation and 2% (3/168) in plasma. The high variant allele fraction of urine was significantly related to worse clinical indicators such as tumor invasion and cytological examination. Although conventional cytology detected tumor cells in only 22% of non‐invasive tumor, tumor diagnostic sensitivity increased to 67% and 78% using urine supernatant and precipitation, respectively. Urine is an ideal liquid biopsy for detecting tumor‐derived DNA and more precisely reflects tumor mutational profiles than plasma. Genomic analysis of urine is clinically useful for diagnosis of superficial bladder cancer at early stage.

Introducing a Novel Method of Intravascular Adeno-associated Virus-mediated Gene Delivery

INTRODUCTION

Adeno-associated virus (AAV) has shown therapeutic potential as a viral vector in various studies of gene therapy. However, research on its use in targeting intravascular cells in a localized manner is lacking. We introduce a novel method to deliver various AAV serotypes intravascularly and examine their efficiency in transducing cells of the murine carotid artery.

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to examine the transduction efficiency of AAV-mediated gene delivery in cells of the murine carotid artery both with and without a fully-formed aneurysm. Results of infection were visualized with green fluorescence protein (GFP) reporter gene.

METHODS

Naïve murine carotid artery or experimentally-induced murine carotid aneurysm was ligated distally and proximally. A small incision was made and 5 uL AAV2, AAV5, AAV8, or AAV9 was microsurgically injected and allowed to incubate for 30 min. Incision was closed and tissue was excised three weeks following AAV injection. Carotid artery or aneurysm tissue was excised and fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde solution. On both naïve carotid artery tissue and aneurysm tissue, GFP was visualized by immunofluorescence using antibody against GFP.

RESULTS

Three out of four serotypes of AAV successfully transduced cells within both the murine aneurysm tissue and the naïve carotid artery tissue. AAV5- and AAV9-transduced aneurysm tissue showed the greatest presence of GFP, with AAV8 showing less overall fluorescence. AAV2 showed no fluorescence.

CONCLUSION

AAV-mediated gene delivery is an effective way to transduce cells intravascularly with a transgene of interest. Our method can be generalized across a wide variety of studies to further research or treat other vascular disease.

Fungal Planet description sheets: 558-624

Novel species of fungi described in this study include those from various countries as follows: Australia: Banksiophoma australiensis (incl. Banksiophoma gen. nov.) on Banksia coccinea, Davidiellomycesaustraliensis (incl. Davidiellomyces gen. nov.) on Cyperaceae, Didymocyrtis banksiae on Banksia sessilis var. cygnorum, Disculoides calophyllae on Corymbia calophylla, Harknessia banksiae on Banksia sessilis, Harknessia banksiae-repens on Banksia repens, Harknessia banksiigena on Banksia sessilis var. cygnorum, Harknessia communis on Podocarpus sp., Harknessia platyphyllae on Eucalyptus platyphylla, Myrtacremonium eucalypti (incl. Myrtacremonium gen. nov.) on Eucalyptus globulus, Myrtapenidiella balenae on Eucalyptus sp., Myrtapenidiella eucalyptigena on Eucalyptus sp., Myrtapenidiella pleurocarpae on Eucalyptuspleurocarpa, Paraconiothyrium hakeae on Hakea sp., Paraphaeosphaeria xanthorrhoeae on Xanthorrhoea sp., Parateratosphaeria stirlingiae on Stirlingia sp., Perthomyces podocarpi (incl. Perthomyces gen. nov.) on Podocarpus sp., Readeriella ellipsoidea on Eucalyptus sp., Rosellinia australiensis on Banksia grandis, Tiarosporella corymbiae on Corymbia calophylla, Verrucoconiothyriumeucalyptigenum on Eucalyptus sp., Zasmidium commune on Xanthorrhoea sp., and Zasmidium podocarpi on Podocarpus sp. Brazil: Cyathus aurantogriseocarpus on decaying wood, Perenniporia brasiliensis on decayed wood, Perenniporia paraguyanensis on decayed wood, and Pseudocercospora leandrae-fragilis on Leandrafragilis.Chile: Phialocephala cladophialophoroides on human toe nail. Costa Rica: Psathyrella striatoannulata from soil. Czech Republic: Myotisia cremea (incl. Myotisia gen. nov.) on bat droppings. Ecuador: Humidicutis dictiocephala from soil, Hygrocybe macrosiparia from soil, Hygrocybe sangayensis from soil, and Polycephalomyces onorei on stem of Etlingera sp. France: Westerdykella centenaria from soil. Hungary: Tuber magentipunctatum from soil. India: Ganoderma mizoramense on decaying wood, Hodophilus indicus from soil, Keratinophyton turgidum in soil, and Russula arunii on Pterigota alata.Italy: Rhodocybe matesina from soil. Malaysia: Apoharknessia eucalyptorum, Harknessia malayensis, Harknessia pellitae, and Peyronellaea eucalypti on Eucalyptus pellita, Lectera capsici on Capsicum annuum, and Wallrothiella gmelinae on Gmelina arborea.Morocco: Neocordana musigena on Musa sp. New Zealand: Candida rongomai-pounamu on agaric mushroom surface, Candida vespimorsuum on cup fungus surface, Cylindrocladiella vitis on Vitis vinifera, Foliocryphia eucalyptorum on Eucalyptus sp., Ramularia vacciniicola on Vaccinium sp., and Rhodotorula ngohengohe on bird feather surface. Poland: Tolypocladium fumosum on a caterpillar case of unidentified Lepidoptera.Russia: Pholiotina longistipitata among moss. Spain: Coprinopsis pseudomarcescibilis from soil, Eremiomyces innocentii from soil, Gyroporus pseudocyanescens in humus, Inocybe parvicystis in humus, and Penicillium parvofructum from soil. Unknown origin: Paraphoma rhaphiolepidis on Rhaphiolepsis indica.USA: Acidiella americana from wall of a cooling tower, Neodactylaria obpyriformis (incl. Neodactylaria gen. nov.) from human bronchoalveolar lavage, and Saksenaea loutrophoriformis from human eye. Vietnam: Phytophthora mekongensis from Citrus grandis, and Phytophthora prodigiosa from Citrus grandis. Morphological and culture characteristics along with DNA barcodes are provided.

All-optical control and visualization of ultrafast two-dimensional atomic motions in a single crystal of bismuth

In a bulk solid, optical control of atomic motion provides a better understanding of its physical properties and functionalities. Such studies would benefit from active control and visualization of atomic motions in arbitrary directions, yet, so far, mostly only one-dimensional control has been shown. Here we demonstrate a novel method to optically control and visualize two-dimensional atomic motions in a bulk solid. We use a femtosecond laser pulse to coherently superpose two orthogonal atomic motions in crystalline bismuth. The relative amplitudes of those two motions are manipulated by modulating the intensity profile of the laser pulse, and these controlled motions are quantitatively visualized by density functional theory calculations. Our control-visualization scheme is based on the simple, robust and universal concept that in any physical system, two-dimensional particle motion is decomposed into two orthogonal one-dimensional motions, and thus it is applicable to a variety of condensed matter systems.

Controlling the motion of atoms in solids with light allows for a deeper understanding of their fundamental properties, yet most studies only deal with one spatial dimension. Katsuki et al. extend this approach to two-dimensional control and use it to visualize atomic motion in bismuth.

Malignant mixed epithelial and stromal tumor of the kidney: report of the first male case

Mixed epithelial and stromal tumor of the kidney is a rare benign tumor that consists of both epithelial and stromal cells. To date, eight malignant cases have previously been reported in female patients only. We report the first case of malignant mixed epithelial and stromal tumor of the kidney in a male patient. A 67-year-old Japanese man receiving hormonal therapy for prostatic cancer was found to have a right renal cystic tumor and underwent right nephrectomy. Histologically, the tumor was composed of benign epithelial and stromal cells in addition to malignant undifferentiated stromal cells. Immunohistochemically, the malignant stromal component was positive for cluster of differentiation 99 and B-cell lymphoma 2, but no chimeric transcripts for synovial sarcoma were identified. Finally, a diagnosis of malignant mixed epithelial and stromal tumor of the kidney was recorded. Urologists and pathologists should recognize that malignant mixed epithelial and stromal tumors of the kidney might occur in male patients receiving hormonal therapy for prostatic cancer.

Durability of resin-dentin bonds to water- vs. ethanol-saturated dentin

Higher 24-hour resin-dentin bond strengths are created when ethanol is used to replace water during wet bonding. This in vitro study examined if ethanol-wet-bonding can increase the durability of resin-dentin bonds over longer times. Five increasingly hydrophilic experimental resin blends were bonded to acid-etched dentin saturated with water or ethanol. Following composite build-ups, the teeth were reduced into beams for 24-hour microtensile bond strength evaluation, and for water-aging at 37 degrees C for 3, 6, or 12 months before additional bond strength measurements. Although most bonds made to water-saturated dentin did not change over time, those made to ethanol-saturated dentin exhibited higher bond strengths, and none of them fell over time. Decreased collagen fibrillar diameter and increased interfibrillar spacing were seen in hybrid layers created with ethanol-wet-bonding. Increases in bond strength and durability in ethanol-wet-bonding may be due to higher resin uptake and better resin sealing of the collagen matrix, thereby minimizing endogenous collagenolytic activities.

[Case report: instillation of povidone iodine for the treatment of idiopathic chyluria]

A 77-year-old woman who had never lived in a tropical area was referred to our hospital in November 2006 because of hypoproteinemia and chyluria. Cystoscopy revealed milky urine flowing from left ureteral orifice. Computed tomography showed small lymph nodes around the left side of the aorta but no carcinoma could be seen. We diagnosed her with idiopathic chyluria and recommended low fatty meals, but chyluria did not disappear. In March 2007 povidone iodine was instilled retrogradedly and chyluria disappeared immediately. As of December 2007, chyluria has not recurred.

Bladder metastasis of renal cell carcinoma; a case study

A 78-year-old man underwent left total nephroureterectomy, and histopathological examination revealed renal cell carcinoma (RCC) of clear cell subtype. Multiple lung metastases were observed, and immunotherapy using IFN-alpha was introduced after the operation. Gross hematuria was seen 1 year after the operation, and cystoscopy revealed a submucosal tumor in the bladder. Transurethral resection of the tumor was performed, and pathological diagnosis was metastasis from the RCC. Six months later, he died because of multiple metastases of the tumor. Thirty cases of metastasis of RCC to the bladder, including our case, have been reported in Japan.

Indometacin up-regulates TFF2 expression in gastric epithelial cells

BACKGROUND

Trefoil factor family peptides are expressed in gastrointestinal epithelial cells and play a critical role in maintaining mucosal integrity. Although non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are important causative agents of gastric mucosal lesions, few data are available about the effect of NSAIDs on trefoil family peptides in gastric mucosa.

AIM

To examine whether indometacin, a widely used NSAID, affects trefoil factor family expression in gastric epithelial cells.

METHODS

MKN45, a cell line derived from human gastric cancer, was used. TFF1, TFF2, and TFF3 mRNA expression was assessed by real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). TFF2 gene transcription was also examined by luciferase reporter gene assay.

RESULTS

Relative expression level of TFF1, TFF2, TFF3 mRNA was 616: 12: 1 in unstimulated MKN45 cells. Although indometacin (1-250 micro mol/L) had no significant effect on the expression of TFF1 and TFF3 mRNA, it up-regulated TFF2 mRNA expression in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Luciferase reporter gene assay confirmed the up-regulation of TFF2 gene transcription by indometacin. Indometacin-induced up-regulation of TFF2 expression was not antagonized by externally applied prostaglandin E2.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that indometacin up-regulates gastric epithelial cell TFF2 expression through a COX-independent mechanism. Since TFF peptides play an important role in gastric mucosal protection, indometacin-induced TFF2 may reduce the degree of gastric mucosal damage induced by indometacin.

Shape-resonance-enhanced vibrational effects in the angular distributions of C 1s photoelectrons from fixed-in-space CO molecules

Angular distributions of C 1s photoelectrons from fixed-in-space CO molecules have been measured with vibrational resolution. A strong dependence of the angular distributions on the vibrational states of the residual molecular ion has been found for the first time in the region of the shape resonance. Calculations in the relaxed core Hartree-Fock approximation have reproduced the angular distributions fairly well in the general shapes of the angular distributions due to the correct description of nuclear motion as an average of the internuclear-distance-dependent dipole amplitudes.

Molecular marker analysis of 24- and 25-chromosome plants obtained from Solanum tuberosum L. subsp. andigena (2n = 4x = 48) pollinated with a Solanum phureja haploid inducer

Clones with 24 or 25 chromosomes were obtained by pollinating an Andean cultivated tetraploid potato (Solanum tuberosum subsp. andigena clone 94H94, 2n = 4x = 48) with the Solanum phureja haploid-inducer clone 1.22. Their genetic composition was analyzed in an RAPD assay using 135 decamer primers and in an RFLP assay using 45 single-copy DNA probes. In total, 22 RAPD and 20 RFLP markers were found to be specific to S. phureja. None of these markers were found in the 24- and 25-chromosome clones. RFLP genotypes for the 45 RFLP loci were further determined for each clone. Genotypes of the 24-chromosome clones were characterized using two alleles randomly selected from four alleles of the parental tetraploid clone for almost all RFLP loci. Five 25-chromosome clones had extra alleles for all of the RFLP loci of chromosomes 4, 8, 10, 11, and 12, respectively, suggesting primary trisomy for one of these chromosomes. Clones with genotypes showing double reduction were also identified. Therefore, the obtained clones likely originated from random samples of female gametes, and hence are euhaploids or aneuhaploids of S. tuberosum subsp. andigena, strongly supporting parthenogenesis to be a primary mechanism for haploid induction in potato.

Fate of tetraplegic patients managed by ileal conduit for urinary control: long-term follow-up

BACKGROUND

A study was conducted to evaluate our experience of ileal-conduit formation in tetraplegic patients with special reference to late complications due to upper urinary tract stones and pyocystis.

METHODS

Ileal-conduit formation was performed in 16 patients with tetraplegia to improve urinary management. The mean age at operation was 46 years (range 19-70) and the mean follow-up period was 8.7 years (range 2-17). We evaluated the results retrospectively from patients' medical records.

RESULTS

Two patients died 2 years after the procedure and one patient died 8 years after the ileal-conduit formation. Five patients suffered from repeated renal or ureteral stone. In three of these cases, serious urinary tract infections developed whenever the stone caused an obstruction. Three patients received a cystectomy at the time of the ileal-conduit formation. Eight patients suffered from empyema of the bladder and in two of these cases a subsequent cystectomy was required.

CONCLUSIONS

Ileal-conduit formation should be cautiously considered as an option in the urinary management of tetraplegic patients, particularly when more conservative management strategies have proved unsuccessful. However, an antirefluxing mechanism for the ileal conduit may be necessary, and a simultaneous cystectomy may improve the results.

Cloned transgenic mouse fetuses from embryonic stem cells

Development of efficient efficient system for genetic modification and large-scale cloning of livestock is of importance for agriculture, biotechnology, or human medicine. The mouse, on the other hand, is an ideal model in the basic studies of genetic modification. In this study, we investigated about production of clone mice from established embryonic stem (ES) cell line by nuclear transfer. Further, we had try of production of cloned transgenic mouse fetuses/offspring using ES cells modified with a marker gene, EGFP. With the ES cell line TT2 which is at least 15 passages, reconstructed oocytes developed to 2-8 cell embryos, morulae, or blastocysts (44.8%), and 17.2% of them developed to term (19.5 days post-coitum, dpc). When 40 embryos with the marker gene transferred to 11 surrogate mothers (pseudopregnant females), 5 live fetuses were recognized in the uteli at 13.5 dpc and in these fetuses expression of GFP was observed, but none developed beyond 19.5 dpc. The present results suggest that ES cells can be used tg produce cloned mice.

Cloned murine fetuses produced by nuclear transfer using metaphase-arrested embryonic stem cells

We examined whether metaphase nuclei could be used as nuclear donors in nuclear transfer in mice. The reconstructed embryos were developed to fetuses in both the metaphase-nuclear transfer and the G1-nuclear transfer. We also performed enucleation of oocytes following nuclear injection (injection-enucleation method) using microinjection method with a piezo-driven micromanipulator in order to produce the cloned murine fetuses. We found that this method could shorten time for manipulation in comparison with the conventional method performing nuclear injection following enucleation of oocytes (enucleation-injection method). We produced successfully cloned fetuses by the injection-enucleation method. Furthermore, there was no difference of developmental efficiency in reconstructed embryos from between B6D2F1 and ddY strain as oocyte donor.

[Opportunistic pneumonia after kidney transplantation]

This study was conducted to evaluate clinical features at the onset of pneumonia and the usefulness of methods for diagnosing pneumonia in patients who have undergone kidney transplantation. From January 1990 to December 1998. 174 kidney transplantations were performed, and were followed by 22 cases of pneumonia. Of the 22 pneumonia patients, 16 were male and 6 were female. The median age of the 22 patients was 37.2 +/- 13.3 years. All the patients received cyclosporin A and corticosteroids. In 11 cases, the organisms were identified in the microbiology or pathology laboratory, either during life or at autopsy. Six cases were due to Pneumocystis carinii (PC), three to PC and Cytomegalovirus (CMV), one to Aspergillus, and one resulted from miliary tuberculosis. Pneumonia occurred within 4 months after kidney transplantation in most cases. The mean interval between the transplantation and the appearance of pneumonia was 77.3 +/- 34.3 days, except in the cases of Aspergillosis and miliary tuberculosis, where the intervals were 46 and 50 months, respectively. The mean interval from the appearance of symptoms to the detection of pulmonary infiltration was 3.3 +/- 4.3 days. The clinical features present when pulmonary infiltration was detected by CT were fever (91%), cough (32%), and crackles (27%). However, at this time, 55% of the cases had no symptoms other than fever. Chest radiographs were positive for pulmonary infiltration in 64% of the cases at the same time that the pulmonary infiltrates were detected by CT. Eighty percent of the cases exhibited diffuse interstitial infiltrates. Organisms were detected in 7 of 9 cases examined with bronchofiberscopy (BF). But in only one of 13 cases that did not undergo BF. Increased values of serum beta-D-glucan were detected in the early phase of three PC pneumonia cases, suggesting that beta-D-glucan is useful as a marker of PC pneumonia. The use of bronchofiberscopy was more frequent in survivors of PC pneumonia than in non-survivors, whereas the mean age was higher and coexisting CMV infections were identified more frequently in the non-survivors. We concluded that fever is important as an initial symptom of pulmonary infection. In addition, we find that CT is very useful for the detection of interstitial infiltrates, and BF is an excellent method for detecting organisms in the pneumonia patient after kidney transplantation.

Mouse fetuses by nuclear transfer from embryonic stem cells

At present, two methods for cloning mammals by nuclear transfer are employed. The first is based on cell fusion and has been applied to domestic animals, such as sheep, cows, and goats. While, nuclear microinjection has been used in mice only. Cloning by nuclear transfer has been reported mainly with cells from primary culture and freshly isolated cells. Here, using ES cell line TT2, we tried to produce clone mouse embryos by the two methods. With ES cell line TT2 (10-13 passaged), 16% of reconstructed oocytes microinjected with the nuclei developed in vitro to the morula/blastocycst stage, and 50% of these embryos developed to fetuses until 14 dpc when transferred to pseudopregnant females. At 20 dpc implanted sites were degenerated and absorbed. Also, in vitro development of embryos reconstructed by electrofusion shown similar results. But, when transferred to recipients, subsequent development of embryos showed lower rates, as compared with embryos microinjected and from recipients live-born pups could not be obtained.

Cloned mice derived from somatic cell nuclei

In 1997, a cloned sheep "Dolly" was produced by nuclear transfer of somatic cell. The first birth of cloned mice derived from some somatic cells were succeeded in 1998. At present, it is shown that somatic cells, cumulus cells, fibroblasts and Sertoli cells can be used to the study of cloned animal as nuclear donor. In this study investigation was designed to compare with efficiency on the production of cloned embryos by using the microinjection and the electrofusion methods for nuclear transfer. Oocyte enucleation was performed with a micromanipulator. The oocyte was held by holding pipette, and was enucleated using a beveled pipette. Microinjection method: Cell's nucleus injection was carried out by piezo-micromanipulator. Cytochalasin B treated cumulus cell was aspirated into a injection pipette, and was broken its plasma membrane using the injection pipette. Then, the cumulus cell was injected into the enucleated ooplasm directly. Electrofusion method: The cell was aspirated into a beveled pipette, and then an aspirated cell was inserted into perivitelline space. Then, the pair of enucleated oocyte and cell was fused using electrical cell fusion apparatus. The reconstituted embryos were activated after nuclear transfer using St2+. Reconstituted embryos had been produced by the microinjection showed the embryonic development to over 8-cell stages. But, the rate of fragmentation of reconstituted embryos by the microinjection showed a little high rate in comparison with the electrofusion. When some reconstituted embryos by the microinjection were transplanted to pseudopregnant females' oviduct, 9 fetuses were observed at 14 days post coitum.

[A new method for pharmacokinetic analysis of 99mTc-GSA using two-compartment and two-parameter model]

Technetium-99m-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid-galactosyl-human serum albumin (99mTc-GSA) is a liver scintigraphy agent which binds to asialoglycoprotein receptor in hepatocyte. Twenty-six patients with liver dysfunction were examined with 99mTc-GSA liver scintigraphy using two-compartment and two-parameter model (2C2P model). The 99mTc-GSA was assumed to move within two compartments (whole blood and liver). k1 and k2 were parameters which represented transfer rate constant from blood to liver, and from liver to blood, respectively. Two differential equations based on 2C2P model were integrated, so that k1, k2, k1/k2 and VLmg were estimated from the time-activity curves of the heart and liver. VLmg was computed as maximum amount of 99mTc-GSA binding to liver. The results were compared with the liver function tests and the conventional 99mTc-GSA indices: HH15, LHL15, and LU15. k1/k2 and VLmg values had positive correlation with the result of the serum liver function tests, Plt., T.Bil., ChE, GOT, LDH, ALP and gamma GTP. It is concluded that this new method using 2C2P model is not invasive and simplest in the 99mTc-GSA liver scintigraphies, and may be useful in evaluating liver function.

Production of inbred progenies of diploid potatoes using an S-locus inhibitor (Sli) gene, and their characterization

To develop inbred lines from self-incompatible, cultivated diploid potatoes, an S-locus inhibitor (Sli) gene derived from a self-compatible variant of a wild potato species, Solanum chacoense, was incorporated into various cultivated diploid potatoes. The progeny was selfed twice by the action of the Sli gene to obtain 74 S2 inbred clones belonging to 8 families. More than 40% of them were either non-flowering or pollen sterile. Among the pollen fertile clones, self-compatible clones occurred with a much lower frequency (20.9%) than expected (83.3%). The result demonstrated that self-compatibility was introduced and expressed in the gene pool of cultivated diploid potatoes by an action of the Sli gene, although serious inbreeding depression associated with selfing occurred. The genotypes of S2 inbreds were surveyed using 46 S. chacoense-specific RFLP (restriction fragment length polymorphism) markers covering the whole potato genome. More than half of the markers (67.4%) showed distorted segregation. Particularly, all markers on chromosome 12 were overrepresented in the S2 inbreds. This confirms our earlier finding that the Sli gene locates on chromosome 12 and the alleles linked with this gene are preferentially transmitted because of its essential requirement for selfing.

Cloning of Arabidopsis thaliana phosphatidylinositol synthase and functional expression in the yeast pis mutant

It is believed that phosphatidylinositol (PI) metabolism plays a central role in signalling pathways in both animals and higher plants. PI is synthesized from CDP-diacylglycerol (CDP-DG) and myo-inositol by phosphatidylinositol synthase (PI synthase, EC 2.7.8.11). Here we report the identification of a plant cDNA (AtPIS1) encoding a 26 kDa PI synthase from Arabidopsis thaliana. The plant enzyme as deduced from its cDNA sequence shares 35-41% identical amino acids with PI synthases from Saccharomyces cerevisiae and mammals. AtPIS1 functionally complements a mutant of S. cerevisiae with a lesion in PI synthase, and recombinant AtPIS1 protein present in yeast membranes strongly depends on the two principal substrates, myo-inositol and CDP-DG, and requires Mg2+ ions for full activity.

Relationship between breast milk feeding and atopic dermatitis in children

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether or not the breast milk feeding has a role in the prevalence of atopic dermatitis among children.

METHODS

The target population of the study was all children participating in health check-up program for 3-year-old children in 60 municipalities locating 10 selected prefectures during designated 2 months between October and December 1997. Using a questionnaire, information on nutrition in infants (breast milk only, bottled milk only, or mixed), parity, mothers' age at birth, and a history of atopic dermatitis was obtained. Besides, data on potential confounding factors were obtained.

RESULTS

Questionnaires from 3856 children (81.6% of those who were to participate in the programs, and 96.4% of children who participated them) were analyzed. After the adjustment for all potential confounding factors using unconditional logistic models, the risk of atopic dermatitis was slightly higher among children with breast milk (odds ratio [OR] = 1.16 with 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.96-1.40). Mothers' age at birth (OR for those who were more than 30 years or older in comparison with those who were younger than 30 years = 1.15; 95% CI, 0.96-1.37) and those with second or later parity orders (OR = 1.14, 95% CI; 0.95-1.35) showed odds ratios that were higher than unity without statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

Breast milk elevates the risk of atopic dermatitis slightly without statistical significance; the risk may be, however, higher in children in second or later parity orders.

[A case of infected renal cyst extending to leg abscess]

A 45-year-old woman was referred to our hospital with the chief complaint of left flank pain, left leg pain and loss of appetite. Computed tomography scan and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a large cystic mass in the left kidney, which we diagnosed as an infected renal cyst. Under ultrasonic guidance, percutaneous puncture and drainage of the renal cyst were performed. After her leg pain worsened, computed tomography revealed abscesses in the left leg, suggesting an infected renal cyst extending to the leg through the obturator foramen. Under general anesthesia, incision and drainage were performed. Cultures from the cyst and abscess fluid showed Klebsiella pneumoniae. Our case is the 82nd case of an infected renal cyst in the Japanese literature.

Role of prostaglandin E2 and leukotriene B4 in skin reaction induced by transdermal application of propranolol

Dermal application of propranolol (PRL) induced formation of erythema and edema, and pseudoeosinophil infiltration in epidermis and dermis at the application site in guinea pigs. We investigated the production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and leukotriene B4 (LTB4) at the application site of PRL and the role of these inflammatory chemical mediators in the occurrence of the skin reactions. PGE2 was found to be produced at the application site slightly after the accumulation of PRL released from the adhesive bandage in the patch test, and the amount of PGE2 increased continuously, with a peak value obtained at 24 h after application. The time-course changes resembled those of delta a* value, the index of erythema formation determined by colorimetric measurement, and edema formation. The production of PGE2 by dermal application of PRL was suppressed by local pretreatment with dexamethasone or indomethacin. However, no notable production of LTB4 was observed at the application site of PRL.

[A case of vesicovaginal fistula with vaginal stone]

The patient, a 51-year-old woman developed urinary incontinence after an abdominal hysterectomy 3 years earlier. She was referred to our hospital complaining of urine leakage from her vagina after spontaneous passage of a stone. Drip infusion pyelography and cystography demonstrated a vesicovaginal fistula. She underwent repair of the fistula with an abdominal procedure. The stone was composed of magnesium ammonium phosphate.

The putative morphogen, DIF-1, of Dictyostelium discoideum activates Akt/PKB in human leukemia K562 cells

The differentiation-inducing factor-1 (DIF-1) is a putative morphogen that induces stalk-cell formation in the lower eukaryote Dictyostelium discoideum. This molecule has been shown to inhibit cell growth and induce erythroid differentiation in human leukemia K562 cells. In the present study, to clarify the mechanism of the actions of DIF-1, we examined the effect of DIF-1 on Akt/protein kinase B (PKB) in K562 cells. Akt/PKB is a serine/threonine kinase that plays a pivotal role in the regulation of cell survival and differentiation in a variety of cells. A nonphosphorylated (inactive) form of Akt/PKB was ordinarily expressed in K562 cells. However, Akt/PKB was phosphorylated and potently activated within several hours of incubation with 5-30 microM DIF-1, and this activation was inhibited by wortmannin, an inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-kinase). Calcium-increasing agents thapsigargin and A23187 also activated Akt/PKB slightly, which was inhibited by wortmannin. By contrast, calcium-reducing agents TMB-8 and EGTA together with A23187 inhibited the DIF-1-induced activation of Akt/PKB. PMA (PKC activator) also activated Akt/PKB but this activation was not inhibited by wortmannin. DIF-1 exhibited no marked effect on the activation of PKCalpha, beta, and gamma, which were activated by PMA. These results indicate that DIF-1 activates Akt/PKB possibly via cytosolic calcium and subsequent activation of PI3-kinase and also that PMA activates Akt/PKB in a PI3-kinase-independent manner.

[Pulmonary thromboembolism accompanied by abnormal plasminogen]

A 38-year-old man was admitted to our hospital because of sudden chest pain and bloody sputum. Lung perfusion scintigraphy disclosed segmental defects in both lungs. An enhanced thin-section computed tomographic scan of the chest showed a low-density area in the right main pulmonary artery. These findings yielded a diagnosis of pulmonary thromboembolism. Serum plasminogen activity was low, not only in the patient but in his elder brother and daughter. Gene analysis revealed a point mutation at exon 15 of the plasminogen gene, suggesting abnormal plasminogen. Abnormal plasminogen is more prevalent in Japan than in the USA or Europe, and is usually asymptomatic. Thromboembolism in patients with abnormal plasminogen is very rare. Further studies are needed to elucidate the relationship between plasminogen abnormalities and pulmonary thromboembolism.

Presence of activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) in the porcine anterior pituitary

The two-hybrid system that identifies protein-protein interactions in a yeast expression system was used to investigate porcine anterior pituitary transcription factors. Four cDNA clones of a protein interacting with the leucine zipper domain of porcine cJun were obtained. Their nucleotide sequences revealed that they encode activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4). A full-length cDNA of porcine ATF4 was obtained by the polymerase chain reaction, and its deduced amino acid sequence showed 88 and 83% identity to human and mouse ATF4, respectively. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis of mRNAs prepared from 11 porcine tissues demonstrated that ATF4 is ubiquitous. Immunohistochemistry showed that ATF4 is present in the hormone producing cells of the anterior pituitary, but absent in some cells of the anterior pituitary. Further binding analysis revealed that ATF4 also interacts with itself and cFos. This evidence of ATF4 homodimerization, as well as heterodimerization with cJun and cFos in the anterior pituitary suggests a novel mechanism for the regulation of gene expression in this tissue.

Pleiotropic alterations in lipid metabolism in yeast sac1 mutants: relationship to "bypass Sec14p" and inositol auxotrophy

SacIp dysfunction results in bypass of the requirement for phosphatidylinositol transfer protein (Sec14p) function in yeast Golgi processes. This effect is accompanied by alterations in inositol phospholipid metabolism and inositol auxotrophy. Elucidation of how sac1 mutants effect "bypass Sec14p" will provide insights into Sec14p function in vivo. We now report that, in addition to a dramatic accumulation of phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate, sac1 mutants also exhibit a specific acceleration of phosphatidylcholine biosynthesis via the CDP-choline pathway. This phosphatidylcholine metabolic phenotype is sensitive to the two physiological challenges that abolish bypass Sec14p in sac1 strains; i.e. phospholipase D inactivation and expression of bacterial diacylglycerol (DAG) kinase. Moreover, we demonstrate that accumulation of phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate in sac1 mutants is insufficient to effect bypass Sec14p. These data support a model in which phospholipase D activity contributes to generation of DAG that, in turn, effects bypass Sec14p. A significant fate for this DAG is consumption by the CDP-choline pathway. Finally, we determine that CDP-choline pathway activity contributes to the inositol auxotrophy of sac1 strains in a novel manner that does not involve obvious defects in transcriptional expression of the INO1 gene.

Cell death-inducing activity by gallic acid derivatives

In this study, the cytotoxic activity of gallic acid derivatives (GDs) was studied using some cancer cell lines. Among them, 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoate (GD-1) and S-(3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl)-3,4,5-trihydroxy-thiobenzoate (GD-3) were found to induce cell death in cancer cell lines with IC50s ranging from 2.9 to 114.4 microM, a concentration comparable with or lower than that of gallic acid. On the other hand, although gallic acid did not show any cytotoxicity against primary cultured rat hepatocytes and human keratinocytes, GD-1 and -3 showed slightly higher sensitivity against such normal cells, when compared with gallic acid. The cell death induced by gallic acid and GD-1 was accompanied by internucleosomal DNA fragmentation characteristic of apoptosis, whereas only smear DNA degradation was detected following GD-3 treatment. When the mechanism by which GD-1 and -3 caused cell death in HL-60RG cells was examined, GD-1 and -3-induced cell death was inhibited by the intracellular Ca2+ chelator, bis-(o-aminophenoxy)-N,N,N,N'-tetraacetic acid acetoxymethyl ester (BAPTA-AM), calmodulin inhibitor, W-7, and the Ca2+/Mg2+ -dependent endonuclease inhibitor zinc sulfate. In contrast, catalase, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), and ascorbic acid inhibited gallic acid-induced apoptosis in HL-60RG cells, whereas they had no effect on GD-1- and -3-induced cell death. This result suggests that GD-1 and -3 induced cell death in a different manner to gallic acid. In conclusion, esterification of gallic acid with a 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl group yielded potent agents to treat cancer with a different signaling pathway from gallic acid, although selectivity was lost.

Skin toxicity of propranolol in guinea pigs

The skin toxicities of propranolol were studied in guinea pigs. In the primary and cumulative skin irritation studies, the skin reactions and the histopathological changes were observed in all animals treated with propranolol, and those tended to increase with the increase of propranolol dosage. The skin reactions increased with the application times of propranolol up to 7 days in the cumulative skin irritation study. In the skin sensitization, the phototoxicity and the skin photosensitization studies, no skin reactions were observed in any animals used in the studies. These results indicate that propranolol caused skin irritation, but was negative for skin sensitization, phototoxicity and skin photosensitization in guinea pigs.

[Effective treatment of AFP-producing lung cancer with UFT]

The main form of chemotherapy for non small cell lung cancer is a multiple combination therapy centered on cisplatin (CDDP). We herein report a case in which a favorable course was obtained for a patient with extremely rare AFP-producing lung cancer by single oral administrations of UFT, following extirpation of brain metastasis. The patient was an 80-year-old male whose main complaints were headache and aphasia. Following close examination, a diagnosis was made of moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma with the primary lesion in S6 of the right lung. A metastatic lesion was found in the left occipital lobe. Blood AFP was an abnormally high 17,000 ng/ml. No tumorous lesions were found in the liver. The brain metastasis were extirpated to alleviate cranial nerve symptoms, and the tissue was found to be the same as that of the primary lesion. AFP staining of the tumor tissue revealed positive cells. Because there was proliferation in the primary tumor following surgery, administration of UFT (300 mg/day Tegafur) was begun. Four weeks later the tumor had begun to shrink, and at 15 weeks was judged to be a partial response. A reduction in AFP was also seen. The patient showed absolutely no side effects from UFT, thus enabling outpatient treatment. Good results were obtained both in reducing the tumor and in maintaining the patient's quality of life.

Cytological and molecular characterization of BC1 progeny from two somatic hybrids between dihaploid Solanum acaule and tetraploid S. tuberosum

Two hexaploid somatic hybrids, DA12-3 (2n = 68) and DA28 (2n = 74), derived from cell fusion between dihaploid Solanum acaule and tetraploid Solanum tuberosum, were crossed with S. tuberosum. Two BC1 families, DA12T and DA28T, were generated, each containing 25 plants. Although the average of somatic chromosome numbers fitted hypothetical numbers assuming equal separation, considerable variation was found: 2n = 54-62 in DA12T and 2n = 58-65 in DA28T. Fifty-two of 80 RFLP single-copy probes generated 108 marker bands specific for S. acaule, by which BC1 progeny were analyzed. The segregation of marker bands from at least 44 probes was explained by two alleles per locus, which had to be heterozygous in dihaploid S. acaule and maintained in homozygous condition in homoeologous chromosomes of tetraploid S. acaule. On average, 73.7% of the chromosomes derived from S. acaule were detected as recombinants, suggesting that frequent homoeologous recombination occurred between S. acaule and S. tuberosum chromosomes. Therefore, S. acaule germplasm can be effectively transferred to the cultivated potato gene pool through backcrossing hexaploid somatic hybrids with S. tuberosum. In both BC1 families, S. acaule chromosomes 3, 4, 6, and 11 were detected as recombinants with higher frequencies (84-98%) than those of chromosomes 9 and 10 (60 and 58%, respectively), suggesting that chromosomal differentiation exists between S. acaule genomes.Key words: hexaploid somatic hybrids, Solanum acaule, homoeologous recombination, RFLP markers.

Effect of the leukotriene receptor antagonist pranlukast on cellular infiltration in the bronchial mucosa of patients with asthma

BACKGROUND

It has been reported that pranlukast reduces the antigen induced immediate and late phase asthmatic responses, airway hyperreactivity to acetylcholine, and pulmonary eosinophil accumulation in guinea pigs. A study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that pranlukast may reduce the number of inflammatory cells in the bronchial mucosa of patients with asthma.

METHODS

A double blind, placebo controlled study was performed in 17 mild to moderate asthmatic subjects to examine changes in inflammatory cell infiltration in response to pranlukast (225 mg orally twice per day for four weeks). Comparisons of the mean daily beta 2 agonist use, symptom score, FEV1 percentage predicted, and airway methacholine responsiveness were made before and after treatment. Using fibreoptic bronchoscopy, bronchial biopsy specimens were obtained before and after treatment with either pranlukast (n = 10) or placebo (n = 7). Immunohistology was performed using monoclonal antibodies for CD3, CD4, CD8, CD68, NP57, AA1, EG1, EG2, gamma GTP and CD19.

RESULTS

When the pranlukast and placebo treated groups were compared there were decreases in beta 2 agonist use, symptom score, and airway methacholine responsiveness after pranlukast but no increase in FEV1 was seen. The clinical response in patients treated with pranlukast was accompanied by a reduction in CD3 (median difference -37, 95% confidence interval (CI) -69 to -1; p < 0.05), CD4 (median difference -28, 95% CI -49 to -8; p < 0.01), AA1 (median difference -15, 95% CI -26 to 0; p < 0.05) and EG2 positive cells (95% CI -35 to 0; p < 0.05), but not in EG1 positive eosinophils, gamma GTP positive cells, and CD19 positive plasma cells.

CONCLUSIONS

These results support the view that pranlukast may act by inhibition of bronchial inflammation in patients with asthma.

Relationship between the skin permeation movement of propranolol and skin inflammatory reactions

We studied inflammatory reactions induced by dermal application of the beta-blocker propranolol (PRL) in ethanol to guinea pigs in order to elucidate the relation of the reactions with the cumulative PRL permeating amount through the stratum corneum or the PRL content in the stripped skin, and to investigate the chemical mediators responsible for the reactions. The cumulative PRL permeating amount through the stratum corneum increased rapidly up to 2 h after dermal application, then increased linearly with time up to 24 h after application. Visual observation revealed formation of erythema and edema at the applied site of PRL, and histopathological examination revealed infiltration of pseudoeosinophiles of dermis and epidermis and degeneration/necrosis of epidermis. In general, it was considered that the duration and the extent of these reactions were dependent on the PRL dosage and application time. It was expected that the cumulative PRL permeating amount through the stratum corneum could be used to predict possible inflammatory reactions during development of transdermal drug delivery systems. On the other hand, contact of PRL with guinea pig skin tissues released histamine, and intradermal injection of PRL caused an increase of capillary permeability at the site of application. Also, the inhibitory effects of anti-inflammatory agents (diphenhydramine, dexamethasone, indomethacin, cyproheptadine hydrochloride, CV3988 and AA-861) to PRL-induced erythema formation demonstrated that histamine and prostaglandins were responsible for the inflammatory reactions induced by PRL.