Comparison of the efficacy and safety of once-daily insulin degludec/insulin aspart (IDegAsp) and long-acting second-generation basal insulin (insulin degludec and insulin glargine 300 units/mL) in insulin-naïve Japanese adults with type 2 diabetes: a pilot, randomized, controlled study

To examine the efficacy and safety of once-daily insulin degludec/insulin aspart (IDegAsp) or once-daily second-generation basal insulin analogs (insulin degludec and insulin glargine 300 units/mL) in insulin-naïve Japanese adults with type 2 diabetes in routine clinical practice. A 12-week multicenter, open-label, randomized, pilot study was performed in 52 subjects with type 2 diabetes treated with oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs). Subjects were randomized to once-daily IDegAsp (n = 26) or basal insulin (n = 26). The primary endpoint was percent change in HbA1c from baseline to week 12. Furthermore, it was analyzed post hoc in subgroups stratified by baseline HbA1c. During a follow-up period, percent change in HbA1c was not significantly different between the two groups (p = 0.161). Daily insulin doses and frequency of overall hypoglycemia were also similar in the two groups. In post hoc analyses, once-daily basal insulin was more effective than IDegAsp in subjects with HbA1c more than or equal to 8.5% (p < 0.05); however, in subjects with HbA1c less than 8.5%, once-daily IDegAsp showed a significant improvement in percent change in HbA1c at week 12, compared with basal insulin (p < 0.01). Although there was no apparent difference in the HbA1c-lowering effects between two groups, when compared in subjects with HbA1c less than 8.5%, once-daily IDegAsp showed a significant effect in comparison with once-daily basal insulin. These findings suggest that the baseline HbA1c level might provide the important information for choosing IDegAsp or basal insulin in patients insufficiently controlled with OADs. This trial was registered with UMIN (no. UMIN000035431).

One-hour oral glucose tolerance test plasma glucose at gestational diabetes diagnosis is a common predictor of the need for insulin therapy in pregnancy and postpartum impaired glucose tolerance

Aims/Introduction

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a risk for adverse perinatal outcomes, and patients with a history of GDM have an increased risk of impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Here, we carried out two non‐interventional and retrospective studies of GDM patients in Japan.

Materials and Methods

In the first study, we enrolled 529 GDM patients and assessed predictors of the need for insulin therapy. In the second study, we enrolled 185 patients from the first study, and assessed predictors of postpartum IGT.

Results

In the first study, gestational weeks at GDM diagnosis and history of pregnancy were significantly lower, and pregestational body mass index, family history of diabetes mellitus, 1‐ and 2‐h glucose levels in a 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), the number of abnormal values in a 75‐g OGTT, and glycated hemoglobin were significantly higher in participants receiving insulin therapy. In the second study, 1‐ and 2‐h glucose levels in a 75‐g OGTT, the number of abnormal values in a 75‐g OGTT, glycated hemoglobin, and ketone bodies in a urine test were significantly higher in participants with OGT. Logistic regression analysis showed that gestational weeks at GDM diagnosis, 1‐h glucose levels in a 75‐g OGTT and glycated hemoglobin were significant predictors of the need for insulin therapy, and 1‐h glucose levels in a 75‐g OGTT at diagnosis and ketone bodies in a urine test were significant predictors for postpartum IGT.

Conclusions

Antepartum 1‐h glucose levels in a 75‐g OGTT was a predictor of the need for insulin therapy in pregnancy and postpartum IGT.

Electronic and local structures of BiFeO₃ films

The electronic structure of BiFeO₃ (BFO), BiFeO₃-PbTiO(3) solid solution (BFO-PT), and Mn-doped BFO-PT (BFM-PT) films fabricated by chemical solution deposition was investigated by x-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS). The BiFeO₃ shows a large leakage current owing to the mixed valance state of Fe(2 +) and Fe(3 +). The BFO film has a blunt absorption edge jump indicating the charge fluctuated state of the iron ions. The BFO-PT and BFM-PT films have sharp absorption edges, and the absorption energy of these films shifted to opposite energy. The valence fluctuation of the iron ions was closely connected with the leakage current properties. The charge fluctuated BFO film showed a leaky feature, and the charge unfluctuated BFO-PT and BFM-PT films had improved leakage current properties. The valence fluctuation of the iron ions can be controlled by Mn substitution and by making solid solutions.

Induction of T-Kininogen and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α by Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factorin vivo

Administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces inflammation and tissue injuries that occasionally results in disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). This process is believed to be mediated by vasoactive molecules such as kinins and leads to endothelial damage and obstruction of the microcirculation. In this study, we evaluated the involvement of T-kininogen and macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in endotoxin-induced systemic inflammation. T-Kininogen is a protein unique to the rat and known as an acute-phase protein in response to endotoxins. Similarly, MIF functions as a proinflammatory cytokine and glucocorticoid-induced immunoregulator. First, we examined the effects of anti-MIF antibody on Wistar King male rats (ca 400 g) treated with intraperitoneal injection of LPS. At 6 hours after LPS injection (5 mg/kg), the platelet counts had decreased from 85 +/- 12.8 (x 10(4)/microL) to 8.8 +/- 2.6 (x 10(4)/microL). We treated these rats with the anti-rat MIF antibody (5 mg gamma G immunoglobulin [IgG] fraction/kg) 2 hours prior to LPS injection. This treatment prevented the decrease in platelet counts (45.6 +/- 5.6 [x 10(4)/microL]). Next, we examined the potential of MIF for production of T-kininogen. Intraperitoneal injection of rat MIF significantly upregulated the serum content of T-kininogen at the dose of 500 microg MIF/head. These results imply that MIF and T-kininogen might function in concert in the event of endotoxin-induced inflammation.

272OVUM RECOVERY AND BLASTOCYST DEVELOPMENT FOLLOWING INTRACYTOPLASMIC SPERM INJECTION IN CHIMPANZEES

In the present study, we report on oocyte collection, intracytoplasmic sperm injection and early embryogenesis in chimpanzees. Eight adult female chimpanzees, 11–27 years of age, received a single s.c. injection of 3.75mg GnRH (Leuplin, Takeda Co. Ltd., Osaka, Japan) 1 to 3 days after the beginning of menstruation. Daily i.m. injections of hMG (Humegon, Nippon Organon K.K., Tokyo, Japan) were initiated the following day. The dose of hMG was altered from 75 to 300IU according to serum estradiol levels. When at least one follicle of 17mm or more in diameter was observed, 10000IU of hCG (Pregnyl, Nippon Organon K.K.) were administered by i.m injection. Oocytes were recovered by ultrasound-guided transvaginal follicular aspiration 30.5 to 35.5h after hCG injection. Mature oocytes were denuded of cumulus cells by treatment with 0.1% hyaluronidase, and injected with a frozen-thawed or fresh spermatozoan using a Piezo-driven micromanipulator. Zygotes were cultured in Quinn’s Advantage Fertilization Medium (Cooper Surgical, Inc., Trumbull, CT, USA) with 10 serum protein substitute (SPS) at 37°C in a 5% CO2 atmosphere until the pronucleus stage. The medium was replaced by Quinn’s Advantage Cleavage Medium with 10 SPS from the pronuclear to 8-cell stage, and Quinn’s Advantage Blastcyst Medium with 10 SPS, thereafter. Mild ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) occurred in one female chimpanzee with estradiol levels of 7520pgmL−1. No oocytes were collected from 2 chimpanzees in which large follicles were observed. Thirty-five mature oocytes, one immature oocyte and 6 degenerate/fragmented oocytes were retrieved from 6 chimpanzees, including the one with OHSS. Among 35 mature oocytes injected with spermatozoa, 26 oocytes (74%) produced two pronuclei;; 23 zygotes (66%) cleaved to the 2-cell stage, 22 (63%) to the 4-cell stage, 14 (40%) to the 8-cell stage, and 9 (26%) to the morula stage. Seven zygotes (20%) developed to the blastocyst stage by 120h. There were no differences in fertilization rate or early embryogenesis between frozen and fresh spermatozoa. Results indicate that techniques used for human-assisted reproduction may be applicable to the chimpanzee to help preserve this endangered species.

Effects of Coffee Consumption on Oxidative Susceptibility of Low-Density Lipoproteins and Serum Lipid Levels in Humans

Since little is known about how coffee intake affects low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidative susceptibility and serum lipid levels, we conducted an in vivo study in 11 healthy male students of Wakayama Medical University aged between 20 and 31 years fed an average Japanese diet. On days 1-7 of the study, the subjects drank mineral water. On day 7, the subjects began drinking coffee, 24 g total per day, for one week. This was followed by a one week "washout period" during which mineral water was consumed. Fasting peripheral venous blood samples were taken at the end of each one-week period. LDL oxidation lag time was approximately 8% greater (p < 0.01) after the coffee drinking period than the other periods. Serum levels of total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) and malondialdehyde (MDA) as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were significantly decreased after the coffee drinking period. Finally, regular coffee ingestion may favorably affect cardiovascular risk status by modestly reducing LDL oxidation susceptibility and decreasing LDL-cholesterol and MDA levels.

The Purple leaf (Pl) locus of rice: the Pl(w) allele has a complex organization and includes two genes encoding basic helix-loop-helix proteins involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis

The Purple leaf (Pl) locus of rice (Oryza sativa L.) affects regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis in various plant tissues. The tissue-specific patterns of anthocyanin pigmentation, together with the syntenic relationship, indicate that the rice Pl locus may play a role in the anthocyanin pathway similar to the maize R/B loci. We isolated two cDNAs showing significant identity to the basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) proteins found in the maize R gene family. OSB1 appeared to be allelic to the previously isolated R homologue, Ra1, but showed a striking difference at the C-terminus because of a 2-bp deletion. Characterization of the corresponding genomic region revealed that the sequence identical to a 5'-portion of OSB2 existed approximately 10-kb downstream of the OSB1 coding region. OSB2 lacks a conserved C-terminal domain. Restriction fragment length polymorphism analyses using an F(2) population indicate that both genes co-segregate with the purple leaf phenotype. A transient complementation assay showed that the anthocyanin pathway is inducible by OSB1 or OSB2. These results suggest that the Pl(w) allele may be complex and composed of at least two genes encoding bHLH proteins.

Functional divergence of the TFL1-like gene family in Arabidopsis revealed by characterization of a novel homologue

BACKGROUND

The TERMINAL FLOWER 1 (TFL1) gene of Arabidopsis plays an important role in regulating flowering time and in maintaining the fate of inflorescence meristem (IM). TFL1 is a homologue of CENTRORADIALIS (CEN) from Antirrhinum, which is only involved in IM maintenance. Recent mutational studies and the genome project revealed that TFL1 belongs to a small gene family in Arabidopsis, in which functional divergence may have occurred among the members.

RESULTS

We found a new member of the TFL1 gene family, which is mapped on chromosome 2 of Arabidopsis. The predicted protein sequence encoded by this gene is more closely related to that of CEN than other Arabidopsis TFL1 homologues (and therefore named ATC for Arabidopsis thaliana CENTRORADIALIS homologue). Transgenic plants constitutively expressing the ATC gene (35S:ATC), in either wild-type or tfl1 mutant backgrounds, showed a phenotype similar to that observed in transgenic plants constitutively expressing the TFL1 gene. However, in contrast to TFL1, the expression of ATC was only detected in the hypocotyl of young plants, and not in the IM. In addition, an atc loss-of-function mutant, isolated by screening a T-DNA library, showed no phenotypes that were similar to those of tfl1 mutants.

CONCLUSION

The phenotypes of transgenic plants over-expressing ATC suggest that the ATC protein can functionally substitute for TFL1. However, the pattern and level of expression and the loss-of-function phenotype indicate that ATC does not participate in the regulation of IM identity, but rather has a role that is different from that of TFL1.

Effect of coffee consumption on bone metabolism

The effects of coffee on bone metabolism are still controversial, although several studies have suggested that caffeine and/or heavy coffee consumption is associated with a significant increase in risk of fracture, osteoporosis, and periodontal disease. Therefore, we sought to clarify the relationship between coffee consumption and bone metabolism using male Wistar rats. Forty-eight male Wistar rats were assigned to three treatment groups including a control-diet group (control, n = 16, coffee-free diet), a 0.62% coffee-diet group (low caffeine, n = 16, diet supplemented with 6.2 g/kg of the control diet), and a 1.36% coffee-diet group (high caffeine, n = 16, diet supplemented with 13.6 g/kg of the control diet), and animals were maintained on an experimental diet for 140 days. Although caffeine in serum was not detected in rats fed the control diet, low-intake coffee for 140 days led to an increase in caffeine concentration to 0.53 +/- 0.11 microg/mL and high-intake coffee led to an increase of 1.77 +/- 0.22 microg/mL. No significant differences in body weight change, serum and urinary biochemical markers of bone metabolism, and bone histomorphometry were found between the coffee-diet groups and the control-diet group, except that urinary phosphorus excretion after 140 days of both coffee diets was significantly increased compared with controls (p < 0.05). In addition, the coffee diets were not associated with differences in tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6, which have been implicated in the pathogenesis of bone loss together with interleukin-1beta. In conclusion, the present study strongly indicates that coffee does not stimulate bone loss in rats.

The YELLOW VARIEGATED (VAR2) locus encodes a homologue of FtsH, an ATP-dependent protease in Arabidopsis

Variegated leaves are often caused by a nuclear recessive mutation in higher plants. Characterization of the gene responsible for variegation has shown to provide several pathways involved in plastid differentiation. Here we describe an Arabidopsis variegated mutant isolated by T-DNA tagging. The mutant displayed green and yellow sectors in all green tissues except for cotyledons. Cells in the yellow sector of the mutant contained both normal-appearing and mutant chloroplasts. The isolated mutant was shown to be an allele of the previously reported mutant, yellow variegated (var2). Cloning and molecular characterization of the VAR2 locus revealed that it potentially encodes a chloroplastic homologue of FtsH, an ATP-dependent metalloprotease that belongs to a large protein family involved in various cellular functions. ftsH-like genes appear to comprise a small gene family in Arabidopsis genome, since at least six homologues were found in addition to VAR2. Dispensability of VAR2 was therefore explained by the redundancy of genes coding for FstHs. In the yellow regions of the mutant leaves, accumulation of photosynthetic protein components in the thylakoid membrane appeared to be impaired. Based on the role of FtsH in a protein degradation pathway in plastids, we propose a possibility that VAR2 is required for plastid differentiation by avoiding partial photooxidation of developing chloroplasts.

Coffee and fitness-coffee suppresses lipopolysaccharide-induced liver injury in rats

To clarify the relationship between coffee and fitness, we investigated the effect of coffee on weight gain and total cholesterol as well as production of cytokines and activities of GOT (aspartate aminotransferase; EC 2.6.1.1.) and GPT (alanine aminotransferase; EC 2.6.1.2.) as injected lipopolysaccharides. Forty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into three dietary groups (n=16), which were fed a stock diet (control group), the diet supplemented with freeze-dried coffee of 6.2 g/kg (0.62% coffee group), and the diet supplemented with freeze-dried coffee of 13.6 g/kg (1.36% coffee group). It was confirmed by HPLC analysis that the serum caffeine concentrations in both coffee groups became significantly higher in 140 days after the start of feeding. No significant differences in body weight and serum cholesterol were found between the coffee groups and control group, though the coffee groups tended to be somewhat high at cholesterol level. Activities of serum GOT and GPT increased at 2 h after LPS injection, but in the coffee groups were significantly suppressed (p<0.05). However, the coffee feeding could not suppress the increases of serum cytokine (TNF-alpha and IL-6) levels. These results suggest that coffee may serve as a preventive against liver injury.

Mitochondrial localization of AtOXA1, an arabidopsis homologue of yeast Oxa1p involved in the insertion and assembly of protein complexes in mitochondrial inner membrane

Components of some protein complexes present in the inner membrane of mitochondria are encoded in both nuclear and mitochondrial genomes, and correct sorting and assembly of these proteins is necessary for proper respiratory function. Recent studies in yeast suggest that Oxa1p, a protein conserved between prokaryotes and eukaryotes, is an essential factor for protein sorting and assembly into membranes. We previously identified AtOXA1, an Arabidopsis homologue of OXA1 by functional complementation of a yeast oxa1- mutant. In this study, we investigated the genomic organization of AtOXA1 and localization of the AtOXA1 protein. Characterization of the AtOXA1 genomic region indicated that the gene consists of 10 exons and is located on chromosome V. A database search also revealed another gene coding for a putative protein homologous to AtOXA1 on chromosome II. Transient expression of a green fluorescent protein (GFP) fusion in suspension-cultured tobacco cells showed that AtOXA1 is targeted into mitochondria by its N-terminal presequence. Antibodies raised against AtOXA1 recognized a 38-kDa intrinsic protein of the inner mitochondrial membrane. Thus, localization of AtOXA1 in the mitochondrial inner membrane, together with our previous complementation experiment in yeast, suggested that it is a functional homologue of Oxa1p.

Maintenance of neutral buoyancy by depth selection in the loggerhead turtle Caretta caretta

Time-series data of swimming speed and dive depth were recorded in six female loggerhead turtles Caretta caretta during the internesting period. The dive profiles of all animals indicated that they stayed at particular depths without swimming and that these depths were correlated with dive duration. These results support the hypothesis that lung air is used to achieve neutral buoyancy in the loggerhead turtle. To test this hypothesis, female turtles were equipped with lead weights and time/depth recorders. The residence depth of the turtles increased when their specific gravity was artificially decreased. This indicates that they control depth rather than lung volume, suggesting that the residence depth of loggerhead turtles during the internesting period is not determined actively. They presumably remain at a particular depth exclusively to save energy for egg maturation during the internesting period. Lung volume was estimated from the change in depth of weighted animals to be 50–150 ml kg(−1). The resulting residence depth of all turtles was within the range at which they maintained the neutral buoyancy.

T-kininogen and a 45 kda proteinase from Porphyromonas gingivalis

To clarify the pathogenic role of proteinases from Porphyromonas gingivalis, a 45 kDa proteinase was isolated from P. gingivalis culture medium by a combination of gel filtration (Bio-Gel A-0.5 m) and ion-exchange chromatographies (DEAE-Sephacel and SP-Sepharose FF). The enzyme was found to have a molecular mass of 45 kDa by SDS-PAGE and to require mercaptoethanol for its activation. The 45 kDa proteinase cleaved T-kininogen into small fragments, but failed to release kinin. In contrast, T-kininogen inhibited the Arg-amidolytic activity of the 45 kDa proteinase with a Ki of 2 nM. On the other hand, the 45 kDa proteinase did not stimulate the production of PGE2, IL-1beta, and TNF-alpha from the macrophages.

Characterization of a flower-specific gene encoding a putative myrosinase binding protein in Arabidopsis thaliana

A cDNA clone, 4B-1, previously isolated by differential screening is preferentially expressed in floral organs of Arabidopsis thaliana. Characterization of the full length cDNA and the genetic locus corresponding to 4B-1 cDNA revealed that it potentially encodes a myrosinase binding protein (MBP) which is presumably present in a large myrosinase complex. The deduced amino acid sequence of the polypeptide encoded by cDNA clone (designated f-AtMBP) appeared to consist of two parts: one region at the C-terminal half representing overall homology with AtMBP, an MBP homologue in A. thaliana, and the other at an extended N-terminal region of about 150 amino acids showing significant identity with the N-terminal region of the MBP-related protein reported in Brassica. Expression analysis by RNA blot and in situ hybridization showed that f-AtMBP was specifically expressed in floral meristems, pistils, stamens, petals, and ovules of immature flowers, but no expression was observed in the specialized cells called the myrosin cells in the hypocotyl and cotyledons of developing seeds where myrosinase enzymes are normally found. Although MBPs and MBP-related proteins are considered to be inducible by exogenous application of signal molecules and physical wounding, we found that f-AtMBP expression was not activated by such treatment, suggesting that f-AtMBP is a novel type of MBP specific to floral organs.

Clinical results of total cystectomy for 92 patients with bladder cancer

The survival rate of 92 patients with primary bladder cancer who had undergone total cystectomy during a 13-year period from 1984 to 1996 was examined. The mean follow-up period was 1,886 days. The 5-year survival rate was 67.9% and the 10-year survival rate was 55.1%. When survival rates were compared pathohistologically, with 81 patients with transitional cell carcinoma divided into two groups, a high-stage group including T3 and T4 patients and a low-stage group with all other patients, the cancer-specific 5-year survival rate of the low-stage group was 88.9% while that of the high-stage group was 45.4%; this difference was significant (p = 0.0002). There were also significant differences in survival rate between those with and those without regional lymph node metastasis, those with and those without lymphatic infiltration, and those with and those without vascular infiltration. However, there was no significant difference in survival rate for the 34 patients with T3 or T4 disease when those with or without chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy were compared.

Phospholipase A2 activity in ox-LDL-stimulated mesangial cells and modulation by alpha-tocopherol

BACKGROUND

Oxidized LDL increases the production of both prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and thromboxane B2 (TXB2) in rat mesangial cells. These increases were suppressed by antioxidants such as alpha-tocopherol (alpha-Toc) or probucol.

METHODS

We investigated the mechanism by which oxidized LDL leads to an increase in PGE2 production using rat mesangial cells in culture. We also examined how alpha-Toc supresses this augmentation, by measuring intracellular Ca2- and phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity.

RESULTS

In rat mesangial cells, oxidized LDL increased PLA2 activity by increasing the intracellular calcium ion content, which resulted in the induction of PGE2 production. On the other hand, pretreatment of cells with alpha-Toc, which resulted in a large uptake of alpha-Toc in cell membranes, markedly suppressed the augmentation of PGE2 production and PLA2 activity by oxidized LDL in a dose dependent manner. However, cytosolic PLA2 partially purified from mesangial cells was not inhibited by alpha-Toc despite an increase of alpha-Toc.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that the augmentation of PLA2 activity in mesangial cells by oxidized LDL in a result of oxidative stresses, and that the antioxidant action of alpha-Toc is responsible for the suppression of augmentation of PLA2 activity observed in mesangial cells exposed to oxidized LDL.

Effect of vitamin E on production of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) by macrophages

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), a putative cytokine involved in inflammatory and immune responses, was identified in rat peritoneal macrophages by Western blot analysis and its secretion into culture medium by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. To clarify the possibility of vitamin E as an immune modulator, we investigated the effect of vitamin E on MIF production in macrophages in response to calcium ionophore A23187 and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Intraperitoneal injections of vitamin E (5 mg per rat) for 6 successive days resulted in a significant increase of alpha-tocopherol content in peritoneal macrophages. Alpha-tocopherol content of macrophages in vitamin E-treated rats was 478.3 +/- 90.7 ng/10(6) cells, whereas in control rats it was 1.5 +/- 0.5 ng/10(6) cells. For the control macrophages, total MIF content of the medium (2.5 x 10(6) cells/18 ml) without stimulation was 40.7 +/- 3.6 ng after 14 h culture, whereas stimulation with calcium ionophore A23187 (400 nM) and LPS (5.0 microg/ml) induced the elevation of MIF content to 65.9 +/- 7.5 ng and 74.3 +/- 10.4 ng, respectively (p < 0.05, n = 3). On the other hand, vitamin E-enriched macrophages without stimulation showed less MIF content (14.0 +/- 4.2 ng) than the control (p < 0.05, n = 3). Similarly, the increase of MIF of vitamin E-treated macrophages was significantly suppressed after stimulation with calcium ionophore A23187 or LPS, compared with the control macrophages (p < 0.01, n = 3). From analysis of intracellular MIF content by Western blot, we found no alteration of intracellular MIF content of vitamin E-macrophages, in contrast to the decreased content of control stimulated-macrophages, showing that vitamin E suppressed MIF secretion into the culture medium. Taken together, these results indicate that vitamin E may contribute to the regulation of inflammatory and immune responses through regulation of MIF secretion, possibly by modulating macrophage-membrane architecture.

Arabidopsis thaliana vegetative storage protein (VSP) genes: gene organization and tissue-specific expression

We have previously identified two cDNAs encoding vegetative storage proteins (VSPs) in Arabidopsis thaliana. Unlike soybean in which VSPs accumulate at high levels in leaves, A. thaliana VSP mRNAs are abundant in flowers. To understand tissue-specific expression and possible roles of VSPs on reproductive organ development, genes corresponding to VSPs (Vsp1 and Vsp2) and their putative promoters were characterized in this study. Genomic sequence analysis revealed that Vsp1 and Vsp2 resemble each other except in their introns, and that these two genes were organized in a tandem array with an interval of 6 kb in a region. The expression patterns of Vsp1 and Vsp2 were examined using transgenic A. thaliana plants carrying a promoter from Vsp1 or Vsp2 fused to a bacterial beta-glucuronidase (GUS) reporter gene. The promoter from Vsp1 expressed its effect in gynoecia, especially in styles, the basal and distal ends of ovaries and in siliques, whereas the promoter from Vsp2 showed its activity in vegetative shoots, petioles, peduncles and receptacles of floral organs. These results suggest that expression of Vsp1 and Vsp2 may be developmentally regulated in A. thaliana. In the transgenic plants, the GUS activity was induced by wounding in an area around the mid-rib of leaves. Therefore, Vsp1 and Vsp2 promoters appear to have elements required for both tissue specificity and wounding.

Isolation of an Arabidopsis thaliana cDNA by complementation of a yeast abc1 deletion mutant deficient in complex III respiratory activity

The yeast Abc1 protein acts as a chaperone-like protein essential for the proper conformation and efficient functioning of the respiratory complex III. By functional complementation of a yeast abc1 mutant, we have identified an Arabidopsis thaliana cDNA that corresponds to a single copy gene and encodes a protein sharing 45% similarity with the yeast Abc1p protein. Cytochrome spectra and respiratory activity measurements have shown that the plant protein allows a partial restoration of the complex III activity. No major difference in the steady-state level of ABC1At mRNA was observed in various plant tissues, suggesting that ABC1At is constitutively expressed in A. thaliana. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the Abc1At protein belongs to a large family of proteins composed of two eukaryotic and one prokaryotic subgroups differing by their degree of similarity and probably by their function.

Inhibition of macrophage migration inhibitory factor secretion from macrophages by vitamin E

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) was identified in rat peritoneal macrophages by Western blot analysis and its secretion into culture medium by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. We investigated the effect of vitamin E on MIF production in macrophages in response to phorbol 12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA), calcium ionophore A23187, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Intraperitoneal injections of vitamin E (5 mg per rat) for 6 successive days resulted in a significant increase of alpha-tocopherol content in peritoneal macrophages (478.3+/-90.7 ng/106 cells) compared with the control (1.5+/-0.5 ng/10(6) cells). For the control macrophages, MIF content of the medium (2.5x10(6) cells/18 ml) without stimulation was 2.27+/-0.20 ng/ml after 14 h culture, whereas stimulation with calcium ionophore A23187 (400 nM) and LPS (5.0 microg/ml) induced the elevation of MIF content to 3. 66+/-0.41 and 4.12+/-0.58 ng/ml, respectively. On the other hand, vitamin E-enriched macrophages without stimulation showed less MIF content (0.77+/-0.23 ng/ml) than the control. Similarly, the increase of MIF of vitamin E-treated macrophages was significantly suppressed after stimulation with calcium ionophore A23187 or LPS, compared with the control macrophages. From analysis of intracellular MIF content by Western blot, we found no alteration of intracellular MIF content of vitamin E-macrophages, in contrast to the decreased content of control stimulated-macrophages. Taken together, these results indicate that vitamin E may contribute to the regulation of immune responses through regulation of MIF secretion.

A single gene of chloroplast origin codes for mitochondrial and chloroplastic methionyl-tRNA synthetase in Arabidopsis thaliana

One-fifth of the tRNAs used in plant mitochondrial translation is coded for by chloroplast-derived tRNA genes. To understand how aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases have adapted to the presence of these tRNAs in mitochondria, we have cloned an Arabidopsis thaliana cDNA coding for a methionyl-tRNA synthetase. This enzyme was chosen because chloroplast-like elongator tRNAMet genes have been described in several plant species, including A. thaliana. We demonstrate here that the isolated cDNA codes for both the chloroplastic and the mitochondrial methionyl-tRNA synthetase (MetRS). The protein is transported into isolated chloroplasts and mitochondria and is processed to its mature form in both organelles. Transient expression assays using the green fluorescent protein demonstrated that the N-terminal region of the MetRS is sufficient to address the protein to both chloroplasts and mitochondria. Moreover, characterization of MetRS activities from mitochondria and chloroplasts of pea showed that only one MetRS activity exists in each organelle and that both are indistinguishable by their behavior on ion exchange and hydrophobic chromatographies. The high degree of sequence similarity between A. thaliana and Synechocystis MetRS strongly suggests that the A. thaliana MetRS gene described here is of chloroplast origin.

Role of the transition zone for elevating serum prostate-specific antigen in benign prostatic hyperplasia

BACKGROUND

Patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) have a wide range of concentrations of PSA. However, it is not known what factors influence the concentration of serum PSA other than the prostate volume. BPH is composed of an enlarged transition zone (TZ) and other zones (nonTZ). The TZ is thought to play a more important role than the nonTZ in determining the concentration of serum PSA in BPH patients.

METHODS

We investigated the individual glandular zone volume, the amount of PSA produced by each zone and the PSA density in each zone in 23 patients with histologically-confirmed BPH. The PSA density in the TZ was calculated by dividing the difference between the serum PSA before and after surgical resection by the specimen weight. We examined the influence of these parameters on the concentration of serum PSA in BPH patients.

RESULTS

The serum PSA concentration correlated with the amount of PSA produced by the TZ (r=0.90, P< 0.0 1), but not the nonTZ (r=0.25, P=0.29). The concentration of serum PSA also showed a significant correlation with the TZ volume (r=0.67, P< 0.01) and the PSA density in the TZ (r=0.51, P< 0.05), but not with the PSA density in the nonTZ (r=-0.06, P=0.81). Also, age was inversely correlated with the PSA density in the TZ (r=-0.69, P< 0.01).

CONCLUSION

The hypertrophic prostate cell volume (TZ volume) and activity (PSA density in the TZ) significantly correlated with the concentration of serum PSA in BPH patients, and the TZ cell activity decreased inversely with age in these BPH patients.

Functional complementation of an oxa1- yeast mutation identifies an Arabidopsis thaliana cDNA involved in the assembly of respiratory complexes

The nuclear gene OXA1 is essential for respiratory growth in yeast. It codes for a chaperon-like protein, and has pleiotropic effects on the assembly of cytochrome c oxidase and ATP synthase of the mitochondrial respiratory chain. To study respiratory complex formation in plants, we have cloned a homolog of the yeast oxa1- in Arabidopsis thaliana, OXA1At, by functional complementation of a yeast oxa1- mutant. OXA1At is a single copy gene and appears to be constitutively expressed in A. thaliana. Although OXA1At encodes a protein sharing only 30% amino acid identity with the yeast Oxa1 protein, hydrophobic domains likely corresponding to trans-membrane domains are strictly conserved. Cytochrome spectra and measurements of respiratory activities show that replacement of the yeast Oxa1 protein with the A. thaliana homolog leads to correct assembly and activity of cytochrome c oxidase, but to partial restoration of ATPase activity. Our results suggest that the Oxa1At protein is essential for the respiratory complex assembly in A. thaliana, and that genes involved in mitochondrial multiprotein complex formation can be conserved between plants and other organisms.

Putative phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase gene from Arabidopsis thaliana induced by oxidative stress

An Arabidopsis cDNA encoding putative phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase (PHGPX) was cloned and sequenced. The cDNA comprised 803 bp and included an open reading frame which encodes a polypeptide of 169 amino acid residues. The deduced amino acid sequence showed about 80 and 50% homology with plant putative PHGPXs and mammalian PHGPXs, respectively. Southern blot analysis suggested that putative PHGPX gene was a single-copy gene. The expression profile of the putative PHGPX in Arabidopsis under NaCl and Al/Fe treatments, which generate oxidative stress, was analyzed. Northern blot analysis revealed that the Arabidopsis putative PHGPX mRNA levels were increased about 3 and 4.5 times after exposure to NaCl and Al/Fe, respectively. These results suggest that the putative PHGPX gene is induced by oxidative stress in Arabidopsis.

An unusual mitochondrial atp9-rpl16 cotranscript found in the maternal distorted leaf mutant of Arabidopsis thaliana: implication of GUG as an initiation codon in plant mitochondria

Properties of an unusual atp9-rpl16 cotranscript preferentially found in the maternal distorted leaf mutant of Arabidopsis thaliana, which had arisen from a genetic cross between chloroplast mutator and wild-type plants, were examined. Analysis of RNA editing of this cotranscript showed that one editing event in the rpl16 coding region created a UGA stop codon. This raises a possibility that a downstream GUG codon can serve as an initiation codon for rpl16.

Cloning and molecular analysis of the Arabidopsis gene Terminal Flower 1

The Arabidopsis gene Terminal Flower 1 (TFL1) controls inflorescence meristem identity. A terminal flower (tfl1) mutant, which develops a terminal flower at the apex of the inflorescence, was induced by transformation with T-DNA. Using a plant DNA fragment flanking the integrated T-DNA as a probe, a clone was selected from a wild-type genomic library. Comparative sequence analysis of this clone with an EST clone (129D7T7) suggested the existence of a gene encoding a protein similar to that encoded by the cen gene which controls inflorescence meristem identity in Antirrhinum. Nucleotide sequences of the region homologous to this putative TFL1 gene were compared between five chemically induced tfl1 mutants and their parental wild-type ecotypes. Every mutant was found to have a nucleotide substitution which could be responsible for the tfl1 phenotype. This result confirmed that the cloned gene is TFL1 itself. In our tfl1 mutant, no nucleotide substitution was found in the transcribed region of the gene, and the T-DNA-insertion site was located at 458 bp downstream of the putative polyadenylation signal, suggesting that an element important for expression of the TFL1 gene exists in this area.

Effect of vitamin E on expression of cyclooxygenase-2 in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated rat macrophages

To clarify the role of vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) for the induction of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in rat macrophages stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), vitamin E-enriched macrophages were prepared by intraperitoneal injection of vitamin E for 6 days at a rate of 5 mg per day. The production of PGE2 was increased in dose- and time-dependent manners by addition of LPS in both control and vitamin E-enriched peritoneal macrophages. The maximum effect of LPS was observed in 12 h at concentration of 5 micrograms/ml. By analyzing COX-2 mRNA level by Northern blot and COX-2 enzyme mass and phosphotyrosine by Western blot, it was revealed that the increase of PGE2 production reflected the induction of COX-2 expression through activation of tyrosine kinase. Vitamin E failed to inhibit PGE2 production in LPS-stimulated macrophages; however, genistein, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, completely inhibited the production at 100 microM. These results suggest that vitamin E does not inhibit COX-2 expression via LPS-mediated tyrosine kinase signal transduction pathway.

Isolation and characterization of cDNA clones corresponding to the genes expressed preferentially in floral organs of Arabidopsis thaliana

Seventeen cDNA clones of genes corresponding to mRNAs expressed preferentially in floral organs of Arabidopsis thaliana were obtained by differential screening of a flower bud cDNA library, and classified into five groups (1A, 17A, 1B, 4B and 5B) by cross-hybridization and restriction analysis. Sequence analysis revealed that the 1A-1 and 17A-1 clones encode vegetative storage proteins (VSPs). The VSP mRNAs were detected in a small amount in leaves and increased to a limited level by wounding. Both 1B-1 and 5B-1 clones were homologous to transmembrane protein cDNAs. The protein encoded by 4B-1 clone contained a proline-rich region, but no homologous proteins were found in databases.

Altered mitochondrial gene expression in a maternal distorted leaf mutant of Arabidopsis induced by chloroplast mutator

Chloroplast mutator (chm) of Arabidopsis is a recessive nuclear mutation that causes green and white variegation in leaves and is inherited in a non-Mendelian fashion. In this study, we have identified and characterized a mutant observed in F1 and backcrossed BC1 populations from a cross between chm1-3 and ecotype Columbia. This mutant, maternal distorted leaf (MDL), grows very poorly and is distinguished by distorted rough leaves and aborted flowering organs. Electron microscopic observation showed that in MDL plants, a significant portion of mitochondria are abnormal and appear to be nonfunctional. DNA gel blot and sequence analysis of the MDL mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) revealed rearrangements in two mtDNA fragments associated with rps3-rpl16 genes (encoding ribosomal proteins S3 and L16, respectively). One rearrangement resulted in the insertion of the rps3-rpl16 operon downstream of atp9. An independent deletion in this region had eliminated the majority of rps3. In contrast, another rearrangement deleted part of rpl16, whereas rps3 remained intact. RNA gel blot analysis indicated that expression of these genes is also altered as a consequence of the mtDNA rearrangements. Thus, a mutation at the CHM locus affects mitochondrial gene expression, and impaired mitochondrial function may result in the distorted phenotype.

Degradation of T-kininogen by cathepsin D and matrix metalloproteinases

Cathepsin D, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, MMP-3 (stromelysin), and MMP-9 were isolated from rat granulomatous tissues. HT1080 human fibrosarcoma cells and rheumatoid synovial cell CM. At acidic conditions, cathepsin D cleaved T-kininogen into small peptides and released Met-T-kinin-Leu (kinin precursor), but failed to release kinin. MMP-3 cleaved T-kininogen into a 57 kDa fragment as measured by SDS-PAGE and Western blot analysis using anti-T-kininogen antiserum. On the other hand, no degradation of T-kininogen occurred during incubation with MMP-2 or MMP-9100/1) at pH 7.5 for 7 h.

Identification of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in human skin and its immmunohistochemical localization

The presence and tissue localization of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in human skin were examined. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that MIF mRNA was expressed in both surgically obtained normal human epidermis and primary cultured human keratinocytes. The expression of MIF was further confirmed by Western blot analysis, which demonstrated a single band at about 12.5 kDa using a polyclonal antibody against human recombinant MIF. Immunohistochemical studies showed that MIF existed in human epidermis, especially in the basal layer. The pathophysiological role of MIF in human skin remains undefined; however, the present results indicate that MIF may play an important role in immunity, inflammation and cellular differentiation of epidermal cells.

The C-terminal region, Arg201-Gln209, of glutathione S-transferase P contributes to stability of the active-site conformation

The C-terminal region of rat glutathione S-transferase P (GST-P) was deleted by either carboxypeptidase (CPase) A and B or site-specific truncation to evaluate the role of the region in the catalytic mechanism. The C-terminal sequence from the 201st to 209th amino-acid residues is Arg-Pro-Ile-Asn-Gly-Asn-Gly-Lys-Gln. When seven of the C-terminal amino-acid residues from the C-terminus were removed by the CPases, the catalytic activity decreased in parallel with the amino-acid removal, amounting to less than 5% of that of the wild-type GST-P. On the other hand, a decrease of the catalytic activity was observed in a different manner when the C-terminal sequence was site-specifically truncated. The VmaxGSH/KmGSH values of the mutants withthree (GSTd207-209), four (GSTd206-209) and seven (GSTd203-209) C-terminal amino-acid residues deleted, were comparable or similar to that of the wild-type GST-P, whereas those of five (GSTd205-209), six (GSTd204-209), and eight (GSTd202-209) amino-acid residue-truncated mutants decreased to 43%, 40%, and 19% of that of the wild-type GST-P, respectively. Similar results were obtained as for VmaxCDNB/KmCDNB. The nine amino-acid residue-truncated mutant showed no catalytic activity. Heat treatment at 50 degrees C for 5 min had little effect on the catalytic activities of the wild-type GST-P and GSTd204-209, whereas those of GSTd207-209, GSTd206-209, GSTd203-209 and GSTd202-209 decreased to 22%, 27%, 18% and 10%, respectively, compared to the catalytic activity of the non-treated enzymes. Considering these results, it is concluded that the C-terminal region, Arg201-Gln209, has an important role in stabilizing the active-site conformation.

[Primary hyperparathyroidism--choice of surgical procedures and follow up after surgery]

Surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is usually one of the most gratifying of all operations; however, at times, it can be one of the most frustrating. Parathyroidectomy has been practiced for about 70 years. During that time, a great deal of knowledge about the anatomy, embryology, pathology, and physiology of this disease has been acquired. Difficulties in parathyroidectomy for PHPT are due to the variability in the number of parathyroid glands, the different locations of normal and pathologic glands from others that are subtly diseased. To be successful, a parathyroid surgeon must have an excellent knowledge of the anatomy, embryology, and pathophysiology of the parathyroid glands. The results of parathyroid surgery for PHPT in the 1990s are excellent when done by experienced surgeons. These findings strongly advocate special training and interest in parathyroid surgery in order to ensure success.

Function of the Chlamydomonas reinhardtii petd 5' untranslated region in regulating the accumulation of subunit IV of the cytochrome b6/f complex

Translational control is an important regulatory mechanism in chloroplasts, and is thought to be mediated by cis-acting elements in the 5' untranslated regions (UTRs) of mRNAs. Chloroplast transformation was used to replace the wild-type Chlamydomonas reinhardtii petD 5' UTR with mutated versions. Transformants containing altered 5' UTRs had either a wild-type photosynthetic phenotype, a leaky non-photosynthetic phenotype, or were unable to grow photosynthetically. Among those transformants with a wild-type phenotype were ones containing mutations in a putative Shine-Dalgarno sequence element. The results indicate that two regions of the 362 nucleotide (nt) 5' UTR may act as positive elements for translation, one located between nt 150 and 200, and the other situated approximately 40 nt upstream of the start codon, at nt 320. In every case where translation was compromised, petD mRNA accumulated to a lower level than in wild-type cells, ranging from 15% to 60% in different strains. It was concluded that specific regions of the petD 5' UTR mediate translational activation, and that mRNA stability may be linked to translatability.

The petD gene is transcribed by functionally redundant promoters in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii chloroplasts

FUD6, a nonphotosynthetic mutant of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, was previously found to be deficient in the synthesis of subunit IV of the cytochrome b6/f complex, the chloroplast petD gene product (C. Lemaire, J. Girard-Bascou, F.-A. Wollman, and P. Bennoun, Biochim. Biophys. Acta 851:229-238, 1986). The lesion in FUD6 is a 236-bp deletion between two 11-bp direct repeats in the chloroplast genome. It extends from 82 to 72 bp upstream of the 5' end of wild-type petD mRNA to 156 to 166 bp downstream of the 5' end. Thus, the deletion extends into the putative promoter and 5' untranslated region of petD. No petD mRNA of the normal size can be detected in FUD6 cells, but a low level of a dicistronic message accumulates, which contains the coding regions for subunit IV and cytochrome f, the product of the upstream petA gene. petD transcriptional activity in FUD6 is not significantly altered from the wild-type level. This transcriptional activity was eliminated by petA promoter disruptions, suggesting that it originates at the petA promoter. We conclude that the petD-coding portion of most cotranscripts is rapidly degraded in FUD6, possibly following processing events that generate the 3' end of petA mRNA. A chloroplast transformant was constructed in which only the sequence from -81 to -2 relative to the major 5' end of the petD transcript was deleted. Although this deletion eliminates all detectable petD promoter activity, the transformant grows phototrophically and accumulates high levels of monocistronic petD mRNA. We conclude that the petD gene can be transcribed by functionally redundant promoters. In the absence of a functional petD promoter, a lack of transcription termination allows the downstream petD gene to be cotranscribed with the petA coding region and thereby expressed efficiently.

petD mRNA maturation in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii chloroplasts: role of 5' endonucleolytic processing

Complex processing of primary transcripts occurs during the expression of higher-plant chloroplast genes. In Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, most chloroplast genes appear to possess their own promoters, rather than being transcribed as part of multicistronic operons. By generating specific deletion mutants, we show that petD, which encodes subunit IV of the cytochrome b6/f complex, has an RNA processing site that is required for accumulation of monocistronic petD mRNA in petD promoter deletion mutants; in such mutants, transcription of petD originates from the upstream petA promoter. The 5' ends of transcripts initiated at the petD promoter are probably also generated by processing, since the 5' end of monocistronic petD mRNA is the same in wild-type strains as it is in the petD promoter mutants. The location and function of the processing site were further examined by inserting petD-uidA fusion genes into the chloroplast genome (uidA is an Escherichia coli gene that encodes beta-glucuronidase). When a promoterless petD-uidA fusion gene was inserted downstream of petA, a monocistronic uidA transcript accumulated, which was apparently initiated at the petA promoter and was processed at a site corresponding precisely to the petD mRNA 5' end. When a construct including only sequences downstream of +25 relative to the mature mRNA 5' end was inserted into the same site, a dicistronic petA-uidA transcript accumulated but no monocistronic uidA transcript could be detected, suggesting that a processing site lies at least partially within the region from -1 to +25. Beta-glucuronidase activity was not detected in transformants that accumulated only the dicistronic petA-uidA transcript, suggesting that the first 25 bp of the 5' untranslated region are required for translation initiation. One explanation for this translational defect is that Chlamydomonas chloroplasts cannot translate the second coding region of some dicistronic messages.

Bradykinin and Met-T-kinin-Leu stimulated PGE2 production by rat macrophage and fibroblast

T-kininogen degradation and kinin release were observed in rat macrophages cultured under acidic conditions. Bradykinin and Met-T-kinin-Leu (a kinin precursor) stimulated PGE2 production by macrophages and fibroblasts but had no effect on O2- production. PGE2 production by macrophages stimulated with 10 microM bradykinin increased by approximately 148% compared to non-stimulated macrophages (0.47 +/- 0.13 vs 0.31 +/- 0.16 ng 10(6) cells-1 30 min-1), and increased by 161% in stimulated as opposed to non-stimulated fibroblasts (0.50 +/- 0.07 vs 0.31 +/- 0.05 ng 10(5) cells-1 30 min-1). No O2- production was detectable in fibroblasts despite stimulation with PMA, A23187, bradykinin, and Met-T-kinin-Leu. O2- production by macrophages was 4.2 +/- 0.3 and 3.0 +/- 0.2 nmol 10(6) cells-1 min-1 after stimulation with PMA and A23187, respectively, but no O2- production was observed after stimulation with bradykinin or Met-T-kinin-Leu. These data suggest that bradykinin and the kinin precursor are implicated in granulomatous tissue formation and wound healing through arachidonic acid and its metabolites but not through O2-.

[A case of testicular tumor with a small tumor focus in the testis]

The initial symptom of a testicular tumor is painless enlargement of the testis in most cases, but in some cases can manifest itself with metastatic lesions associated with a small focus. On the other hand, a occult testicular tumor accompanied by a minimal lesion in the testis, may be included in the category of extra gonadal germ-cell tumors. We have seen a 41-year-old male with a chief complaint of swelling of a cervical lymph node, who was found to have a tumor in the testis of normal size. A CT scan revealed a tumor in the retroperitoneal space. The serum levels of HCG and AFP were markedly elevated. Biopsy of the cervical lymph node established a diagnosis of embryonal cell carcinoma. The left testis, free from a palpable mass but tender, was excised. A gonadal cell tumor approximately 7 mm in size was just below the epididymis. A stage III-a testicular tumor was diagnosed in the patient. Three courses of VAB-6 yielded partial relief in the patient. We concluded that the testis should be carefully examined with echogram whenever a extra gonadal germ-cell tumor is suspected, since a tiny lesion can exist in the testis concomitantly in some cases.

A role for oxygen radicals in rat monocytic leukemia cell differentiation under stimulation with platelet-activating factor

Combined stimulation, by superoxide ions generated by the xanthine-xanthine oxidase reaction, and platelet-activating factor (PAF), induced cell differentiation of rat monocytic leukemia cells (c-WRT-LR) to macrophage-like mature cells. Monitoring of cytochrome c reduction revealed that PAF stimulation induced the release of superoxide ions from c-WRT-LR. To further investigate the effect of superoxide ions in the autocrine or paracrine mechanism in cell differentiation, molecular species of the oxygen radicals under PAF stimulation were examined using the EPR spin trap, 5,5'-dimethyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide (DMPO). PAF and/or phorbol myristate acetate caused the formation of EPR spectra, a combination of DMPO/.OOH and DMPO/.OH. Since both spectra were diminished in the presence of superoxide dismutase, it was concluded that DMPO/.OH was derived from superoxide ions. Mannitol and catalase suppressed cell differentiation induced by combined stimulation with PAF and oxygen radicals generated by the xanthine-xanthine oxidase reaction. Taken together, these results suggest that hydroxyl radicals generated by Fenton reaction from H2O2 may be involved in the mechanism of cell differentiation in rat monocytic leukemia cells.

[Clinical study of primary hyperparathyroidism--diagnosis, parathyroidectomy and late result of operation]

We retrospectively studied clinical problems for 55 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism who were operated on at our hospital. The chance to discovery of primary hyperparathyroidism and its accompanied symptoms were various. Other than classical symptoms, hypertension was noted in 12 patients and malignant tumors in 9. Forty-four percent of patients who had no bone related symptoms were found to have decreased bone mineral density (BMD). Even the patients with normal BMD were seen to increase the BMD, postoperatively. We thought that the parathyroidectomy was indicated for the asymptomatic patients with normal BMD. Biochemical investigation showed that positive rate were 50% for PTH-C, 94% for PTH-HS, 78% for intact PTH, 87% for serum total calcium and 98% for serum ionized calcium. Serum ionized calcium and intact PTH were useful for the diagnosis of patients who had normocalcemia or slight elevation of serum calcium. The sensitivity was 61% for ultrasound sonography (US) and 49% for computer tomography (CT) and scintigram, respectively. The detection rate of US and CT was positively related to the size of the parathyroid glands, but scintigram was not. The rate with which the parathyroid glands can be recognized during operation increased from 30% in the former group to 52% in the later group. As a result, 11% of the patients with adenoma had too much surgery and 29% of the patients with hyperplasia had too little surgery.

[Clinical studies of factors influencing acute tubular necrosis after kidney transplantation]

It is known that the earlier the graft begins functioning after cadaver kidney transplantation, the better the graft survival rate and function will be. In order to examine the possibility of shortening the period of acute tubular necrosis (AIN), we retrospectively studied the effect of several factors on the duration of postoperative hemodialysis. The subjects were 27 patients on whom a cadaver kidney transplantation was performed during a 6-year period from July 1, 1986. The mean duration of postoperative hemodialysis was 14.0 days in 26 out of the 27 patients. The remaining patient showed a primary non-functioning kidney. A significant correlation was observed between the anastomosis time and the duration of postoperative hemodialysis. No significant correlations were noted between the duration of postoperative hemodialysis and the age of the donor, renal function during the 24 hours preceding nephrectomy, or cold ischemic time. Moreover, no significant difference was observed in the duration of postoperative hemodialysis between patients using a roller pump for perfusion and patients who did not. The duration of postoperative hemodialysis was significantly shorter in patients using UW solution than in patients using Euro-Collins solution. Graft survival rate 6 months and one year after transplantation was 88.9% and 83.3%, respectively in the EC group, and 100% and 100%, respectively, in the UW group. It was concluded from these results that a short anastomosis time is essential in order to shorten the period of ATN after cadaver kidney transplantation, and that UW solution is effective in shortening the duration of postoperative hemodialysis and improving the graft survival rate thereafter.

Urinary levels of gamma-carboxyglutamic acid and its clinical significance

Urinary gamma-carboxyglutamic acid (gamma-Gla) levels were determined in healthy subjects of all ages. The urinary gamma-Gla levels were highest in infants (0-1 years), then fell in an age-dependent manner, again in subjects reaching a minimum value in adults, then gradually increased over 60 years of age. Urinary gamma-Gla levels therefore change markedly with aging. The relationships between the urinary gamma-Gla excretion and plasma levels of prothrombin and protein C in patients with various hepatic diseases or diabetes mellitus were examined and compared with those in healthy adults. Both plasma prothrombin and protein C levels were decreased in all patients with liver disease compared with healthy adults. In patients with hepatitis and liver cirrhosis, the decrease did not, however, affect the gamma-Gla excretion. In addition, in patients with hepatoma or carcinoma with liver metastases, the urinary gamma-Gla levels were increased. In patients with diabetes mellitus, the urinary gamma-Gla levels and plasma levels of prothrombin and protein C tended to increase, but this was not significant. The present results indicate that simultaneous measurement of the levels of urinary gamma-Gla and plasma prothrombin and protein C is a useful tool for the diagnosis of liver diseases and diabetes mellitus.