bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functionally and phenotypically mature mouse CD8+ T cells develop in porcine thymus grafts in mice
Authors: Zhao Yong , Barth Rolf N. , Swenson Kirsten , Pearson Denise A. , Sykes Megan
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Mouse CD4+ T cells efficiently develop in fetal pig thymus (FPTHY) grafts and repopulate the periphery of T cell and NK cell‐depleted, thymectomized (ATX) mice. However, efficient peripheral repopulation of mouse CD8+ T cells does not occur in these mice. We have therefore evaluated the maturation and function of mouse CD8 single positive (SP) thymocytes in fetal pig thymus and liver fragment (FP THY LIV) grafts. Phenotypic maturity, as measured by upregulated expression of TCR, class I MHC, and Qa‐2, and downregulated expression of heat stable antigen (HSA) on CD8 SP cells in FP THY grafts, was similar to that in host thymi of euthymic control mice. Cytolytic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity of thymocytes from FP THY grafts was similar to that of thymocytes from host thymi of euthymic mice, indicating that functional maturation of CD8 SP cells had taken place in the grafts. Furthermore, similarly efficient deletion of Vβ5.1/5.2+ and Vβ11+ CD8 SP cells was observed in FP THY grafts as in host thymi of euthymic control mice. Similar percentages of Vβ6, Vβ7, and Vβ8.1/8.2 expressing cells were also detected among CD8 SP cells in FP THY grafts and host thymi of euthyrnic controls. Together, our results suggest that normal positive and negative selection occurs, and that mouse CD8+ cells can undergo normal functional and phenotypic maturation in FPTHY grafts. Thus, other explanations must be sought for the failure of CD8’cells to repopulate the peripheral lymphoid tissues of ATX, T cell‐depleted, pig THYLIV‐grafted mice.
Extracorporeal (“ex vivo”) connection of pig kidneys to humans. III. Studies of plasma complement activation and complement deposition in the kidney tissue
Authors: Bengtsson Anders , Svalander Christian T. , Mölne Johan , Rydberg Lennart , Breimer Michael E.
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACT: The complement system is one of the important factors involved in the hyperacute rejection of xenografts. This report deals with the activation of the complement system in a clinical trial where pig kidneys were extracorporeally connected to two volunteer dialysis patients who were pretreated with plasmapheresis in order to substantially reduce anti‐pig xenoantibodies. The clinical data of the perfusion experiments and the patients humoral immune response to pig xenoantigens have been reported in detail (Xenotransplantation 1996; 3:328–339, 340–353). Three consecutive daily plasmapheresis treatments of the patients reduced the plasma complement protein (C3, C4, and C5) concentrations to 8–27% of the baseline values. The perfusion of the pig kidney connected to patient 1 was terminated at 65 min due to graft rejection and this patient was not hemodynamically affected by the experiment. The second experiment was terminated at 15 min due to an anaphylactic like reaction of the patient. In patient 1 a slight reduction of plasma C3, C4, and C5 and an increase of C5a and SC5b–9 occurred, while C3a decreased during the perfusion. Patient 2 had an increase of all complement parameters, most prominent for C4d and SC5b–9, which occurred concomitant with the appearance of the anaphylactic like side effects. In general, plasma levels of PMN elastase, IL6 and IL8 increased in both patients during the perfusion. Immunohistochemical investigation of the kidney tissues revealed deposition of human complement factors C1q, C4c, and C3c in a congruent pattern with the vasculature of the kidney in patient 1. In kidney 2 only trace amounts of C1q and C3c were found. Both kidneys were negative for properdin. Therefore, in this experimental set up with extracorporeal connection of pig kidneys to the human circulation the human complement cascade is activated mainly through the classical pathway.
Comparative histopathology of hepatic allografts and xenografts in the nonhuman primate
Authors: Luo Y. , Kosanke S. , Mieles L. , Kobayashi T. , Li S.F. , Niekrasz M. , Shimizu A. , Ye Y. , Colvin R.B. , Cooper D.K.C.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Liver transplantation was performed in the following groups: Group 1, baboon‐to‐baboon allografting (n = 8) (control group); Group 2, ABO‐compatible vervet monkey‐to‐baboon xenografting (n = 8); Group 3, ABO‐incompatible vervet monkey‐to‐baboon xenografting (n = 6); Group 4, pig‐to‐baboon xenografting (n = 2); and Group 5, pig‐to‐rhesus monkey xenografting (n = 6). Immunosuppressive therapy (cyclosporine, cyclophosphamide, and methylprednisolone) was begun 2–7 days before liver transplantation (LTx) and continued indefinitely after LTx. The liver grafts were biopsied pre‐LTx and subsequently post‐LTx at approximately 1 hr, 2–3 hr, 7–10 days, 20–30 days, 60 days, 120 days, and at euthanasia or spontaneous death. There were 19 successful LTxs with grafts functioning from one hour to 123 days. No pig liver (Groups 4 and 5) survived more than 5.5 hr, as there was an immediate severe vascular response after reperfusion, typical of hyperacute rejection (congestion and hemorrhage). Vascular rejection was not seen in allografts (Group l), but early mild‐to‐moderate congestion and neutrophil infiltration were present in concordant xenografts (Groups 2 and 3), which were associated with moderate deposition of immunoglobulin, C3, and fibrinogen. Lymphoid cell infiltration, bile duct damage, and portal vein endothelialitis in the portal zones occurred later in both allografts (Group 1) and concordant xenografts (Groups 2 and 3), developing earlier in the presence of ABO‐incompatibility (Group 3). In concordant xenografts it was usually followed by fibrosis.
Requirement of CD4 cells for induction and maintenance of unresponsiveness in islet xenografted mice
Authors: Lu Xiaoshan , Borel Jean F.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Long‐term survival of islet xenografts in the hamster to mouse model can be induced by a short‐course treatment with a nondepleting anti‐CD4 mAb but not with a depleting anti‐CD4 mAb (Lu et al. Xenotransplantation 1998; 5:154–1631. Although CD4 cells are known to play a key role in the rejection of islet xenografts, it remains unclear whether CD4 cells are also required for the induction and/or maintenance of specific unresponsiveness to xenografts. To investigate this problem, islets were isolated from golden hamsters and transplanted into streptozotocin‐induced diabetic CBA/J mice. Nondepleting mAb YTS 177.9 was used to block CD4 cells for the induction of islet xenograft unresponsiveness and subsequently depleting mAb GK1.5 to deplete CD4 cells in the unresponsive recipients.

First, we now confirm that second donor‐strain xenografts were permanently accepted in recipients that had been unresponsive to the first grafts, whereas Lewis rat islet xenografts, used as third‐party grafts, were rejected like a primary graft within 7–8 days. Second, we depleted CD4 cells in recipient mice, which had been treated perioperatively with the nondepleting mAb YTS 177.9 and became unresponsive to their primary hamster islet graft, by using a depleting anti‐CD4 mAb at different time points post‐transplant. Depletion of CD4 cells in the unresponsive recipients by the depleting anti‐CD4 mAb GK1.5 did abrogate this unresponsive state, since the grafts were always rejected within an average of 25.5 days after the mAb GK1.5 injections. Therefore, our results strongly suggest that CD4 positive cells play an active suppressive role and that their presence in the recipients appears essential for both induction and maintenance of long‐term islet xenograft survival or specific unresponsiveness.
Cyclophosphamide, but not CTLA4Ig, prolongs survival of fetal pig islet grafts in anti‐T cell monoclonal antibody‐treated NOD mice
Authors: Koulmanda Maria , Kovarik Jiri , Mandel Thomas E.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Fetal pig islets, xenografted after organ culture into non‐immunosuppressed prediabetic NOD mice, are rejected within 10 days. Immunosuppression with anti‐T cell (anti‐CD4 and anti‐CD3) monoclonal antibodies alone is highly effective in delaying graft rejection in this discordant model, but rejection eventually occurs, usually within 80 days, despite marked depletion of T cells. In an attempt to prevent rejection, we used cyclophosphamide (CP), a powerful anti‐B cell agent, or CTL4Ig, an inhibitor of T‐cell co‐stimulation [via B7–1 (CD80) and B7–2 (CD86)], either given in combination with anti‐CD4 (GK1.5) or anti‐CD3 (KT3) MAb to the recipient mice. The addition of cyclophosphamide in a dose that significantly depleted B cells in peripheral blood was highly effective in preventing rejection, with xenografts surviving for at least 112 days, when the experiment was terminated. CTLA4Ig, administered alone, did not prevent delayed rejection (rejection occurred in <60 days) and, in contrast to CP, did not prevent delayed rejection when used in combination with GK1.5 and KT3 treatment. Thus, immunosuppressive agents found to be highly effective in other strains, e.g., CTLA4Ig and anti‐T cell MAbs, had a lesser effect in NOD mice but the addition of an anti‐B cell drug, CP, was useful. This finding may be applicable to patients with IDDM.
Demonstration of multilineage chimerism in a nonhuman primate concordant xenograft model
Authors: Ko Dicken S.C. , Bartholomew Amelia , Poncelet Alain J. , Sachs David H. , Huang Christene , LeGuern Annie , Abraham Kakkudiyil I. , Colvin Robert B. , Boskovic Svjetlan , Hong Han‐Zhou , Wee Siew‐Lin. , Winn Henry J. , Cosimi A. Benedict
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Prior studies from our laboratory have demonstrated that a nonmyeloablative conditioning regimen can induce transient mixed chimerism and renal allograft tolerance between MHC disparate cynomolgus monkeys. We have also shown that this preparative regimen can be extended to a concordant baboon to cynomolgus xenograft model by adding, to the post transplant protocol, therapy designed to prevent antibody production. Here we examine the use of brequinar (BQR) for this purpose and the efficacy of two new reagents developed to demonstrate the establishment of chimerism in the xenograft recipients. The cynomolgus recipients were conditioned with WBI (300 cGy), TI (700 cGy), ATG, cyclosporine, and brequinar sodium. To detect engraftment of the donor marrow, we prepared a polyclonal cynomolgus anti‐baboon antibody (CABA) and a monoclonal antibody (215.1), which distinguish baboon and cynomolgus lymphocytes and granulocytes. We employed flow cytometry analysis to detect multilineage chimerism in the xenograft recipients. Five of the six recipients monitored using our new reagents (CABA and 215.1) developed detectable chimerism and only one of these animals lost its kidney to rejection. However, other complications have not permitted assessment of long‐term outcome. The features of the multilineage chimerism included the detection of donor granulocytes (1.8–77.4%) and lymphocytes (2.4–22.2%) for 9 to 37 days. Our new reagents permit the detection of multilineage mixed chimerism, which may be a predictor of xenograft tolerance. We also conclude that brequinar may be effective in preventing antibody formation, but because of its toxicity, it is probably not the drug of choice for extension of the mixed chimerism protocol to concordant xenografts.
Ostéologie du morse de l'atlantique (Odobenus rosmarus, L., 1758)
Authors: Piérard Jean , Bisaillon André
Published: July 2007

This study presents the gross‐anatomical details of the axial skeleton of the Atlantic walrus. It bases on two specimens captured in the Ungava Bay area.
Einfluß der Ernährung auf den Papillarkörper der Pansenschleimhaut bei Kälbern
Authors: Scheurmann E. , Weyrauch K. D.
Published: July 2007

The purpose of this scanning electronmicroscopical study was to describe the structure of the lamina propria of the ruminal mucosa in calves on different diets.

The surface epithelium was removed with 0.3 % acetic acid. The exposed lamina propria showed structural differences, both macroscopically and microscopically in the different dietary groups. At the submicroscopic level, however, no differences were observed.
The Comparative Morphology of the Muscle Tissues and Changes of Constituents in the Pig Types
Authors: Fehér György , Fazekas Sándor , Sándor István , Kollár Nándor
Published: July 2007

The authors have revealed the main value characteristics of pork production by testing in five different types of pig the volume of contractile and collagen proteins, that of proteoglycans, the constituents of blood and the enzymes of the blood plasma.

The contractile proteins of the muscle tissues basically determine the quality of pork. The same applies to the water retention capacity, colloidal characteristics and glycogen content of meat. The amount of contractile proteins has decreased in the best meat producing types of pig. Parallel with the decrease of white meat, and with the increase in the volume of ham, chop and chuck the contractile protein content of muscles decreased. The scientific fact according to which there is a certain correlation among the changes in the volume of contractile proteins, blood sugar level, blood serum CPK and the intensity of activity of the LDH enzymes promotes the qualifying of live animals and the work of the geneticists aiming at the increasing of the contractile protein content of the muscle tissues of pigs by selection.

According to tests carried out by us the primary cause of PSE changes is a decreased volume of contractile proteins. Increased stress sensitivity and all the other factors have but a secondary importance and are all consequential. The decrease in the quantity of contractile proteins or – it is better to put it this way – the lack of the proper amount of such proteins characterizing a fully developed pig's organism is caused by the nowadays usual breeding technologies and can be well explained by those selection activities which aim at a one‐sided kind of pork production.

“Reluctante natura irritus labor est”
El Desarrollo del Estómago del Vacuno: Análisis desde el Prisma Morfológico y Morfométrico
Authors: Vivo J. M. , Robina A.
Published: July 2007

The Development of the Bovine Stomach, a Morphological and Morphometrical Analysis, Part I

Forty two embryos and fetuses of Frisian cattle, distributed onto 14 groups on the basis of crown‐rump lengths between 1.3cm (about 23 days) and 9.5cm (70 days), were used to study the morphogenesis of the bovine stomach. The work is divided into three parts. Part 1 deals with the ruminoreticulum and parts II and III the omasum and abomasum.
Histo‐and Cytochemical Studies on the Distribution of Acetylcholinesterase‐positive Nerve Fibers in the Goat Adrenal Gland
Authors: Watanabe Tohru , Hiramatsu Kohzy , Ohmori Yasushige , Paik Young‐Ki
Published: July 2007

The distribution patterns of acetylcholine esterase positive nerve fibers in the goat adrenal glandis described. Some positive cells are observed within the capsule. Terminals were identified in both the medulla and the cortex of the gland.
Binocular Dissecting Microscopic Studies on the Density of Toruli Tactile in the La Mancha Goat
Authors: Wakuri Hidekazu , Guinan Michael J. , Kitchell Ralph L.
Published: July 2007

The Merkel cells and associated nervous terminal plates have been called toruli tactiles (TT). These structures can be ubiquitously seen on the shaved hairy skin after staining with a methylene blue solution. Four La Mancha goats of both sexes were examined for the density of TT. TT were visually located under a binocular dissecting microscopic (14 ×) and then the number of TT in the field was directly counted. The density of TT in different corporal areas of the body surface was estimated from the mean of several two‐cm square samples of skin.

The results obtained are as follows: The mean number per two‐cm square on the whole body surface ranged from 10.06–11.36 in the male specimen and from 12.98‐14.32 in the female specimen. The density of TT was rather high in the temporal and buccal areas, on the neck, chin and cranial breast, and on the lateral surface of the arm, thigh and leg. Density was moderate in the frontoparieto‐occipital area (female), on the loin and buttocks, in the upper costal, lower caudo‐costal, xiphoid‐umbilical and umbilical‐pubic areas, and on the lateral surface of the forearm. TT were absent or very few in number on the nose and chin, the scrotum, caudal‐pubic area of males, the udder, the vulva, and the digitorum manus et pedis.
Immunohistochemical Study of Peptide‐containing Nerves in the Gastrointestinal Tract of the Japanese Field Vole, Microtus montebelli
Authors: Koide M. , Kitamura N. , Yamada J. , Yamashita T.
Published: July 2007

The distribution and relative frequency of nerves containing immunoreactivity for substance P (SP), vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), gastrin‐releasing polypeptide (GRP), calcitonin generelated peptide (CGRP), neuropeptide Y (NPY) and menthionine‐enkephalin (MENK) were studied by immunohistochemistry in the gastrointestinal tract of the herbivorous Japanese field vole, Microtus montebelli.
Nachweis der hydrodynamisch wirkenden Tensulae in der Substantia spongiosa des Caput femoris bei Bos taurus und Ovis aries
Authors: Copf F. , Czarnetzki A. , Lierse W. , Dolenc A.
Published: July 2007

Evidence of tissue (tensulae) that functions hydrodynamically in the spongy substance of the bovine and ovine femoral head

The authors show the presence of CC‐Tensulae in Bos taurus and Ovis aries. They define CC‐Tensulae as tense membranes in openings between the trabeculae of spongy bone. These structures were interpreted in man as a hydrodynamic subsystem which serves the flow and the impulses of mechanical forces. The authors point especially to the similarity that exists between their findings and what has been seen in man.
A New Light Microscopy Classification of Spermatogenesis in the Bull and the Boar Applicable to Tissues Processed for Electron Microscopy
Authors: Suswillo R. F. L. , Watson P. F.
Published: July 2007

A new light microscopy classification of spermatogenesis in the bull and the boar was formulated to be used in conjunction with electron microscopy. It uses information available from all cell types and allows for very small portions of testicular epithelium at any orientation to be evaluated. The classification devised, being simple in outline, allows for the natural overlap of cell types. Furthermore, it emphasises the direct comparability of the morphological events occurring during spermatogenesis in the bull and the boar.
Impact of day‐case gastroscopy on children and their families
Authors: Jimenez Susan G , Catto–Smith Anthony G
Published: July 2007

Background and Aim:  Increasing numbers of endoscopies are being carried out in children. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the provision of information about the admission and procedure and the functional and economic impact of day‐case gastroscopy on children and their families.

Methods:  We administered a structured questionnaire to families of children undergoing elective gastroscopy, with daily follow up by telephone over the next 3 days.

Results:  One‐hundred‐and‐three children were recruited. All had seen a consultant gastroenterologist (usually the proceduralist) prior to the endoscopy, who had obtained signed consent; 89% of families remembered receiving an explanation from the doctor carrying out the procedure. Nearly all (94%) described the information they received as adequate. However, only one‐third of families recalled receiving an explanatory brochure and very few had toured the Day Surgical Unit or seen the complimentary video. Thirty percent were unhappy with the time spent at the Day Surgical Unit and an apparent failure to warn of possible delays, 8% felt that they were not given adequate information prior to discharge, and 39% of children failed to attend school the day after the procedure. Although tiredness or sleepiness was common, no correlation was found between the presence of symptoms and school absence. Complaints about the admission included overcrowding, lack of privacy, excessive noise, and failure to cater for adolescents. Fifty percent of parents took leave from work, but most manipulated work rosters and holidays so that costs to them and to the workplace were minimal.

Conclusion:  Information provision about the procedure and admission appears to be adequate in most families of children undergoing day‐case gastroscopy, but may be improved in some areas. Failure to remember elements of the consent and explanatory process is common. Minor morbidity is also common after the procedure.
Intrahepatic expression of the co‐stimulatory molecules programmed death‐1, and its ligands in autoimmune liver disease
Authors: Oikawa Tsunekazu , Takahashi Hiroki , Ishikawa Tomohisa , Hokari Atsushi , Otsuki Noriko , Azuma Miyuki , Zeniya Mikio , Tajiri Hisao
Published: July 2007

Liver‐infiltrating T cells play an essential role in the immunopathogenesis of autoimmune liver disease. Programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) and its ligands, B7‐H1/PD‐L1 and B7‐DC/PD‐L2, are new CD28‐B7 family members that are involved in the regulation of immune responses. The ligation of PD‐1 inhibits T‐cell receptor‐mediated T cell proliferation and cytokine production, and PD‐1‐deficient mice develop various organ‐specific autoimmune diseases. To investigate the expressions of PD‐1 and its ligands in autoimmune liver disease, in particular autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), immunohistochemical analysis was performed. Liver biopsy specimens obtained from 17 patients with AIH and PBC were studied. PD‐1 was expressed on more than half of the liver‐infiltrating T cells within the portal tract. Some of the intrahepatic T cells expressed B7‐H1 in patients with AIH and PBC. B7‐H1 and B7‐DC were mainly expressed on some Kupffer cells (KC) and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) within the sinusoids and their expression was upregulated in autoimmune liver disease. These results suggest that the interaction of PD‐1 on T cells with increased expression of B7‐H1 and B7‐DC on KC and LSEC might be involved in the downregulation of autoreactive lymphocytes and result in the regulation of pathogenesis in autoimmune liver disease.
Evaluation of simian virus‐40 as a biological prognostic factor in Egyptian patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma
Authors: Zekri Abdel‐Rahman N. , Bahnassy Abeer A. , Mohamed Waleed S. , Hassan Nelly , Abdel‐Rahman Abdel‐Rahman M. , El‐Kassem Fatma Abou , Gaafar Rabab
Published: July 2007

The association between simian virus (SV40) and malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) suggests an etiological role for SV40. However, exact pathogenetic mechanisms and possible prognostic value are not clear. The purpose of the present paper was to investigate 40 Egyptian MPM patients for the presence of SV40 DNA, altered Rb expression and p53 gene status using immunohistochemistry and molecular techniques. The relation between SV40, asbestos exposure, Rb, p53 and their contribution to the overall survival (OS) were also assessed. SV40 DNA was detected in 20/40 patients and asbestos exposure in 31 patients; 18 of them were SV40 positive. Altered p53 and Rb expression were detected in 57.5% and 52.5%, respectively, with no p53 mutation. Univariate analysis showed a significant correlation between OS and stage (P = 0.03), performance status (P = 0.04), p53 overexpression (P = 0.05), asbestos exposure (P = 0.002) and SV40 (P = 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that when SV40 and asbestos exposure were considered together, only combined positivity of both was an independent prognostic factor affecting the OS (P = 0.001). SV40 and asbestos exposure are common in Egyptian MPM, denoting a possible etiological role and a synergistic effect for both agents. Combined positivity for SV40 and asbestos exposure is an independent prognostic factor in MPM, having a detrimental effect on OS.
Production of erythropoietin and multiple cytokines by metanephric adenoma results in erythrocytosis
Authors: Yoshioka Kunihiko , Miyakawa Ayako , Ohno Yoshio , Namiki Kazunori , Horiguchi Yutaka , Murai Masaru , Mukai Makio , Tachibana Masaaki
Published: July 2007

This is the first report of direct evidence that metanephric adenoma cells produce erythropoietin and other types of cytokines, which may be the cause of the high incidence of erythrocytosis in patients with this tumor. The purpose of the study was to establish a metanephric adenoma cell line in vitro from nephrectomized tumor tissue in order to investigate the ability of metanephric adenoma cells to produce erythropoietin and other types of cytokines. The tumor tissue was obtained from a 16‐year‐old boy who had developed metanephric adenoma with erythrocytosis and was served for cell culture. Significantly high concentrations of erythropoietin, granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF), granulocyte–colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and IL‐8 were detected in the cell culture supernatant. Southern hybridization showed specific positive signals for GM‐CSF, G‐CSF, IL‐6, IL‐8 and erythropoietin. The number of chromosomes was 46‐XY without any structural abnormalities in cytogenetic analysis of the cultured cells.
Detection and Quantification of Soluble Intercellular Adhesion Molecule‐1 (slCAM‐1) in the Serum and Urine of Patients with Bladder Cancer
Authors: Shi Bing Bing , Goya Nobuyuki , Okuda Hisashi , Ryoji Osamu , Nakazawa Hayakazu , Toma Hiroshi
Published: July 2007

Background: A possible role for intercellular adhesion molecules in tumor progression and metastasis has been strongly suggested. To investigate the effect of soluble intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (slCAM‐1) on bladder cancer, slCAM‐1 serum and urinary concentrations were measured in patients with superficial or invasive bladder cancer and in patients with prostatic hypertrophy.

Methods: Serum and urine samples were obtained from 26 patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder (mean age, 66.8 years) and 14 patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH; mean age, 70.5 years). Fifteen healthy volunteers served as control patients. Samples were collected before surgery and 5 days after surgery. The serum and urinary slCAM‐1 levels were measured by an ELISA.

Results: The preoperative serum concentration of slCAM‐1 was significantly higher in patients with invasive bladder cancer (351.8 ±158.0 ng/mL)than in the healthy controls (233.1 ±96.1 ng/mL; P<0.05) or BPH patients (224.7 ± 80.5 ng/mL; P< 0.05). In addition, serum slCAM‐1 levels were significantly higher in patients with tumors greater than 3 cm in size (412.7 ± 147.6 ng/mL) than in patients with smaller tumors (246.6 ± 101.2 ng/mL; P<0.05). Urinary slCAM‐1 levels in patients with invasive bladder cancer were also significantly higher than in the patients with superficial cancer prior to surgery.

Conclusion: Our results suggested that slCAM‐1 may play an important role in the progression of bladder cancer, and that elevated serum slCAM‐1 levels may be related to tumor size.
Value of the Free to Total Prostate Specific Antigen Ratio and Prostate Specific Antigen Density for Detecting Prostate Cancer in Japanese Patients
Authors: Maeda Hiroshi , Arai Yoichi , Okubo Kazutoshi , Aoki Yoshitaka , Okada Takashi , Maekawa Shinya
Published: July 2007

Background: This study evaluated the free to total serum prostate specific antigen (f/t PSA) ratio and prostate specific antigen density (PSAD) in detecting prostate cancer in Japanese males with a PSA level between 2.5 and 20.0 ng/mL in a community‐based urology practice.

Methods: Twenty‐six patients with clinically localized prostate cancer and 44 patients with histologically‐proven benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) were studied. The serum levels of free PSA (fPSA) and total (t) PSA were determined using a chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay. The f/t PSA ratio was calculated by dividing the fPSA value by the total PSA value and was compared with the PSA and PSAD via the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

Results: Patients with prostate cancer had a significantly lower f/t PSA ratio than patients with BPH. The PSAD was a superior diagnostic tool over PSA (P < 0.01) when analyzed by ROC curves. The f/t PSA ratio was also superior to PSA, but lacked significance (P=0.12), and similarly, the PSAD was superior, but not significant, to the f/t PSA ratio. Using a cut‐off value of 0.1 9, the PSAD had a sensitivity of 81% and a specificity of 82%. With a cut‐off value of 14.0%, the f/t PSA ratio had a sensitivity of 81% and a specificity of 66%.

Conclusion: This study showed that PSAD alone improved cancer detection significantly better than PSA. However, it is still unclear whether the f/t PSA ratio is superior to PSA or PSAD in the discrimination between BPH and prostate cancer in Japanese male patients.
Intrapelvic Malignant Schwannoma Resected Transsacrally
Authors: Kojima Yoshiyuki , Hayashi Yutaro , Sasaki Shoichi , Asaka Hidekazu , Ando Yutaka
Published: July 2007

Malignant schwannoma arising in the retroperitoneum is rare. A 68‐year‐old man underwent transsacral resection for an intrapelvic tumor which proved to be a malignant schwannoma. The transsacral approach is simple and effective, and should be considered for primary management of retrovesicular and retroprostatic tumors.
Kidney Transplantation in Patients with Neurovesical Dysfunction
Authors: Chikaraishi Tatsuya , Nonomura Katsuya , Kakizaki Hidehiro , Seki Toshimori , Morita Ken , Takeuchi Ichiro , Yamashita Tetsufumi , Koyanagi Tomohiko
Published: July 2007

Background: Five renal recipients with neurovesical dysfunction (NVD) were retrospectively reviewed focusing on anatomical and urodynamic abnormalities of the lower urinary tract and their management prior to kidney transplantation.

Methods: The underlying anomalies in these 5 patients were a posterior urethral valve (1 with an imperforate anus; n = 2), meningomyelocele (n = 2) and a congenital short urethra with an imperforate anus (n = 1). Their urinary tracts were evaluated prior to transplantation with voiding cystourethrography, urethrocystoscopy, cystometrography and electromyography of the external urethral sphincter to identify a possible focus of urinary tract infection, urine storage and voiding function.

Results: All 5 patients had NVD proven by urodynamic studies or by documentation of urinary retention in the absence of mechanical outlet obstruction. Bilateral high grade vesicoureteral reflux was noted in all patients, requiring ureteroneocystostomy. Clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) was ultimately employed for bladder emptying in all patients. Two patients with poor bladder compliance underwent augmentation cystoplasty before transplantation. The Mitrofanoff procedure was used in 2 patients with structural urethral abnormalities to access the bladder for catheterization. After eradication of possible sources of infection and establishment of a low‐pressure urine storage system with bladder emptying by CIC, kidney transplantation was performed. Following kidney transplantation, all of the recipients were asymptomatic for urinary tract infections using CIC. Although 1 patient lost his graft due to chronic rejection, the other 4 other patients have good renal function.

Conclusion: Kidney transplantation in patients with NVD can be performed provided that their urinary tract problems are properly resolved.
Differential Expression of Hepatocyte Growth Factor in Papillary and Nodular Tumors of the Bladder
Authors: Li Benyi , Kanamaru Hiroshi , Noriki Sakon , Fukuda Masaru , Okada Kenichiro
Published: July 2007

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor (c‐met) during bladder tumorigenesis.

Methods: HGF and c‐met expression were analyzed immunohistochemically in matched samples of normal, dysplastic, and carcinoma specimens from 49 human bladders resected at the time of radical cystectomy for nonmetastatic transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). The tumors were composed of papillary (n = 22), nodular (n = 16) or mixed papillary and nodular (mixed; n = 11) components. Results: The normal urothelium showed no significant immunoreactivity to HGF. Expression of HGF was observed in 45.5%, 77.3% and 90.9% of specimens demonstrating mild, moderate, and severe dysplastic lesions adjacent to papillary TCCs, respectively, whereas all of the papillary TCC samples were positive for HGF. No immunoreactivity for HGF was found in dysplastic lesions from nodular tumors, and only 2 specimens had positive immunostainingfor HGF in the tumor areas (1 showed weak immunostainingand 1 showed HGF immunostainingonly in the deeper invasive compartment). Additionally, 3 nodular lesions taken from mixed tumors showed weak immunostaining for HGF while the concurrent papillary lesions were HGF‐positive. There was a significant difference of HGF immunoreactivity between papillary and nodular tumors (P < 0.01). c‐met immunostaining was consistently detected in all specimens. HGF and c‐met immunoreactivity did not significantly correlate with tumor stage and grade, nor with overall patient survival irrespective of the tumor growth pattern.

Conclusion: These results suggest that HGF expression may play a significant role in the development of papillary TCC.
Preoperative Predictors for Organ‐Confined Disease in Japanese Patients with Stage T1c Prostate Cancer
Authors: Ogawa Osamu , Egawa Shin , Arai Yoichi , Tobisu Kenichi , Yoshida Osamu , Kato Tetsuro
Published: July 2007

Background: In order to define the characteristics of patients with clinical stage T1c prostate cancer in Japan, clinicopathologic data obtained from patients treated by radical prostatectomy were reviewed.

Methods: Fifty‐four stage T1 c cancers were evaluated for tumor volume, Cleason grade, tumor location and pathologic stage from prostatectomy specimens in association with preoperative clinical parameters.

Results: The mean tumor volume was 3.94 mL (range, 0.07 to 33.4 mL), and 11 of the 54 tumors had a tumor volume of less than 0.5 mL. Thirty‐two tumors (59%) were organ‐confined, while 7(13%) involved the seminal vesicle and/or regional lymph nodes. Multivariate logistic regression analysis of the pretreatment variables, including age, pretreatment PSA level, prostate volume, biopsy grade, and number of cancer‐positive cores revealed that the serum PSA level and the number of cancer‐positive biopsy cores were independent factors to predict organ‐confined tumors (P= 0.036 and 0.044, respectively). For T1c cancer with less than 4 cancer‐positive biopsy cores, the sensitivity and specificity for predicting organ‐confined tumors were 90% and 70%, with a cut‐off value of 17 ng/mL for the serum PSA level. Conclusion: The clinicopathologic features of Tic prostate cancer in Japanese patients were similar to those of whites reported elsewhere. Both serum PSA levels and the number of positive biopsy cores may be useful as pretreatment parameters to identify patients with the potential to benefit from radical treatment.
Reduced Chlamydial Infection and Gonorrhea among Commercial Sex Workers in Fukuoka City, Japan
Authors: Tanaka Masatoshi , Nakayama Hiroshi , Sakumoto Misao , Takahashi Koichi , Nagafuji Tatsuo , Akazawa Kohei , Kumazawa Joichi
Published: July 2007

Background: Until recently, epidemiologic studies of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including human immunodeficiency virus type‐1 (HIV‐1) infection, amongjapanese female commercial sex workers and their patterns of condom use have been rare. We investigated trends in STDs among female commercial sex workers and their condom use patterns in Fukuoka, Japan, from 1990 through 1995.

Methods: The study group consisted of 1218 female commercial sex workers who attended an STD clinic to undergo screening for major STDs including chlamydial infection, gonorrhea and HIV‐1 infection from 1990 through 1995. Endocervical smear specimens were taken from the women to detect Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae and blood samples were obtained for the serologic diagnosis of HIV‐1. Also, the commercial sex workers were interviewed concerning their condom use patterns.

Results: The annual infection and detection rates of C. trachomatis declined significantly from 58.1 % in 1990 to 46.2% in 1995 and from 16.3% in 1990 to 10.0% in 1995, respectively, while the annual infection and detection rates of N. gonorrhoeae also declined significantly from 13.2% in 1990 to 3.5% in 1995 and from 1.5% in 1990 to 0.4% in 1995, respectively. None were found to be seropositive for HIV‐1 during the 6‐year period. The proportion of commercial sex workers using condoms significantly increased during 1992–1993 and 1994–1995 periods, as compared with the 1990–1991 period.

Conclusion: Reductions in the prevalence of major STDs among female commercial sex workers may be related to an increase in the frequency of condom use.
Activation of the Ca2+‐Activated K+ Channel via Protein Kinase A‐Dependent Phosphorylation in Human Prostatic Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Kurokawa Yasushi , Kojima Keiji , Kanayama Hiro‐omi , Kagawa Susumu , Minami Kazushi , Nakaya Yutaka
Published: July 2007

Background: We investigated the functional importance of the Ca2+‐activated K+ channel (KCa‐channel) of human prostatic smooth muscle cells in cyclic adenosine 3', 5'‐monophosphate (cAMP)‐induced relaxation, to clarify signal transduction pathways and intracellular mechanisms of relaxation in prostatic smooth muscle.

Methods: Using the patch‐clamp technique, we characterized the KCa‐channel of cultured human prostatic smooth muscle cells. We also investigated the effects on the KCa‐channels of forskolin, an activator of adenylate cyclase, amrinone, a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, and protein kinase A (A‐kinase)‐dependent phosphorylation.

Results: Single‐channel current recordings from cultured human prostatic smooth muscle cells revealed the presence of KCa‐channels (conductance 296.7±5.67 pS, n = 7). In cell‐attached patch configurations, the KCa‐channel was activated by forskolin (1CH mol/L) and amrinone (10−4 mol/L). In inside‐out patch configurations, it was activated by catalytic subunits of A‐kinase (10 U/mL).

Conclusions: We conclude that the KCa‐channel of human prostatic smooth muscle cells is regulated by intracellular cAMP levels and that A‐kinase mediates the cAMP‐induced activation of the KCa‐channel. This regulation of the KCa‐channel by cAMP may at least partially explain cAMP‐induced prostatic smooth muscle relaxation and the effectiveness of certain drugs for treatment of obstruction in benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Testis Sparing Surgery for Infantile Synchronous Bilateral Teratoma of the Testis
Authors: Tasaki Yoshihisa , Nakagawa Masayuki , Hanada Toshikatsu , Mimata Hiromitsu , Nomura Yoshio
Published: July 2007

We report a rare case of infantile synchronous bilateral testicular teratoma treated by testis sparing surgery. Preoperative ultrasonography, tumor marker status and intraoperative findings were suggestive of benign neoplasia. Under these circumstances we performed high orchiectomy for the left testis and testis sparing surgery for the right. Surgical treatment of teratoma in childhood is controversial, especially when it occurs bilaterally. In this report we discuss testis sparing surgery as the treatment for this disease.
Polymerase Chain Reaction Analysis of the Y Chromosome Long Arm in Azoospermic Patients: Lack of the Y Chromosome Recognition Motif (YRRM1) Gene
Authors: Baba Katsuyuki , Iwamoto Teruaki , Nakagome Yasuo , Kuroki Yoko , Nakahori Yutaka , Yajima Michitaka , Tanaka Hiroki , Osada Takao
Published: July 2007

We analyzed DNA from a patient with azoospermia whose Y chromosome was cytogenetically normal. A total of 16 loci on the Y chromosome long arm were examined: 15 loci between DYS7E and DYZ1, and the Y chromosome RNA recognition motif (YRRM1) locus, a candidate gene for the azoospermic factor AZF. We did not detect the YRRM1 gene in this patient. This finding supports the theory that YRRM1 is an essential gene for spermatogenesis.
Clinical and Histopathologic Examination of Renal Allografts Treated with Tacrolimus (FK506) for at Least One Year
Authors: Hatori Motoaki , Takahara Shiro , Kyo Masahiro , Kokado Yukito , Nagano Shunsuke , Okuyama Akihiko
Published: July 2007

Background: We clinically and pathologically analyzed renal allografts from 19 renal transplant patients treated with tacrolimus (FK506) for more than 1 year.

Methods: Twenty‐six renal allograft biopsy specimens from 19 renal transplant patients who underwent transplantations between 1991 and 1 993 were evaluated. Thirteen biopsies were performed from stable functioning renal allografts with informed consent (nonepisode biopsy) and the other 13 were from dysfunctional renal allografts with a clinical indication for biopsy (episode biopsy).

Results: The main pathologic diagnoses (some overlap) were acute rejection (AR; n = 4), chronic rejection (CR;n = 5), AR + CR(n=4), recurrent IgA nephropathy (n = 5), normal findings (n = 2), minimal‐type chronic FK506 nephropathy (n = 9), and mild‐type FK506 nephropathy (n = 11). Of the nonepisode biopsies, 7 and 4 biopsies showed minimal‐type and mild‐type chronic FK506 nephropathy, respectively. Chronic FK506 nephropathy consisted of rough and foamy tubular vacuolization (5 biopsies), arteriolopathy (angio‐degeneration of the arteriolar wall; 20 biopsies), focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (4 biopsies) and the striped form of interstitial fibrosis (11 biopsies). The serum creatinine levels of patients in the mild‐type chronic FK506 nephropathy group, which included 7 episode biopsies, were statistically higher than those in the minimum‐type chronic FK506‐nephropathy group (P < 0.001).

Conclusions: This study demonstrates that chronic FK506 nephropathy consists primarily of arteriolopathy manifesting as insudative hyalinosis of the arteriolar wall, and suggests that mild‐type chronic FK506 nephropathy is a condition which may lead to deterioration of renal allograft function.
Long‐term Results of Definitive Treatment in Elderly Patients with Localized Prostate Cancer
Authors: Kanamaru Hiroshi , Arai Yoichi , Moroi Seiji , Yoshida Hiroshi , Yoshimura Koji , Okada Kenichiro
Published: July 2007

Background: The indication and effectiveness of definitive local treatment for prostate cancer in patients with a limited life expectancy remains to be established. This study is a retrospective analysis of the long‐term clinical outcome of elderly patients with localized prostate cancer treated by radiotherapy or a radical prostatectomy.

Methods: From 1982 to 1992, 37 patients with localized prostate cancer, aged 70 years or older, were treated initially by a pelvic lymphadenectomy and then with either external radiotherapy (n = 1 7) or a radical retropubic prostatectomy (n = 20). Lymph node metastasis was negative in all the cases, and no patients received hormonal treatment after the lymphadenectomy. The outcome of all patients was evaluated in June 1997.

Results: The 10‐year overall and relative survival rates for the radiotherapy group were 27% and 85%, which were not significantly different from the rates of patients in the prostatectomy group (38% and 74%, respectively). The 5‐year progression free rates for the radiotherapy group and the prostatectomy group were 63% and 95%, respectively (P= 0.06).

Conclusion: In elderly patients with localized prostate cancer, the superiority of a radical prostatectomy over radiotherapy was not demonstrated in terms of either overall or relative survival rates, although the progression rate tended to be higher in patients in the radiotherapy group. The indication of definitive treatment in elderly patients should be further studied incorporating a quality of life assessment.
Ultrasensitive Assay of Prostate‐Specific Antigen for Early Detection of Residual Cancer after Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Arai Yoichi , Okubo Kazutoshi , Aoki Yoshitaka , Maekawa Shinya , Okada Takashi , Maeda Hiroshi
Published: July 2007

Objectives: Perhaps the greatest value of PSA determination in the treatment of prostate cancer is in determining persistent disease after a radical prostatectomy. We investigated the ability of an ultrasensitive PSA assay to detect residual prostate cancer in men at risk for recurrence after a radical prostatectomy.

Methods: Using the Immulite third‐generation PSA assay (detection limit, less than 0.003 ng/mL), and the standard IMx PSA assay, we determined PSA levels in 205 serum samples serially obtained from 34 men after a radical prostatectomy. The average days from surgery to serum sampling was 430 (range, 63 to 1 296). Patients were classified as having nonaggressive or aggressive cancers, based on clinicopathologic findings. A biochemical relapse was arbitrarily defined.

Results: All 1 7 patients with nonaggressive cancers had PSA values of less than 0.02 ng/mL throughout the sampling period. Two of these patients (12%) had 2 or more consecutive PSA increases and were considered as a biochemical relapse. In contrast, 14 (82%) of 1 7 patients with aggressive cancers fit criteria of a biochemical relapse. All of the relapses were identified within 2 years after surgery. The IMx assay detected only 7 biochemical relapses during the same sampling period.

Conclusions: Using the Immulite PSA assay, relapse detection times may be shortened allowing for most serological recurrences to be detected within 2 years after a radical prostatectomy. Patients with aggressive cancers may require frequent postoperative PSA determinations with a highly sensitive PSA assay which would allow early intervention when treatments for relapse are effective.
Treatment of Metastatic Nonseminomatous Germ Cell Tumors of the Testis: Significance of the International Consensus Prognostic Classification as a Prognostic Factor‐Based Staging System
Authors: Shinohara Nobuo , Hioka Takaya , Harabayashi Toru , Demura Takayoshi , Kashiwagi Akira , Nagamori Satoshi , Koyanagi Tomohiko
Published: July 2007

Background: We reviewed treatment results in patients with metastatic nonseminomatous germ cell tumors of the testis and examined the significance of the International Consensus Prognostic Classification to make appropriate risk‐based decisions concerning induction chemotherapy.

Methods: We divided 37 patients treated with platinum‐based combination chemotherapy into good, intermediate, and poor prognostic groups utilizing the International Consensus Prognostic Classification. The data was analyzed for both overall survival and progression‐free survival among the 3 prognostic groups.

Results: Among the 37 patients, 10 died (8 of progressive disease, 1 of pneumonia during induction chemotherapy and 1 of cyclophosphamide‐induced hemorrhagic cardiomyolitis during salvage chemotherapy). The survivors were followed for 6 to 1 84 months from the beginning of induction chemotherapy (median, 80 months). Five of the 37 patients (14%) were classified as having a good prognosis, 18 (48%) as intermediate, and 14 (38%) as having a poor prognosis. The patients in the poor prognostic group had a 5‐year overall survival of only 40%, while those in the good and intermediate groups had 5‐year overall survivals of 100% and 94%, respectively. When we applied the International Consensus Prognostic Classification to patients with advanced disease classified by the Indiana University Staging System, these patients could be clearly divided into good‐risk and poor‐risk groups.

Conclusions: The International Consensus Prognostic Classification is easily applicable and accurate for risk assessment in patients with metastatic nonseminomatous germ cell tumors of the testis. This classification will now be widely used in general oncology practices and for clinical trials in these patients.