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A heterogeneous multicore system-on-chip (SoC) has been developed for high-definition (HD) multimedia applications that require secure DRM (digital rights management). The SoC integrates three types of processors: two specific-purpose accelerators for cipher and high-resolution video decoding; one general-purpose accelerator (MX); and three CPUs. This is how our SoC achieves high performance and low power consumption with hardware customized for video processing applications that process a large amount of data. To achieve secure data control, hardware memory management and software system virtualization are adopted. The security of the system is the result of the cooperation between the hardware and software on the system. Furthermore, a highly tamper-resistant system is provided on our SiP (System in a package), through DDR2 SDRAMs and a flash memory that contain confidential information in one package. This secure multimedia processor provides a solution to protect contents and to safely deliver secure sensitive information when processing billing transactions that involve digital content delivery. The SoC was implemented in a 90 nm generic CMOS technology.

The crossed polarized-light microscopy has revealed that the as-deposited LB film of the 2C 14 –Au(dmit) 2 salt consists of giant domains of several hundred microns, which have a uni-axial molecular arrangement. By the electrochemical oxidation, the giant domains disappear and smaller domains of 5–10 μm appear. According to the atomic force microscopy (AFM) observation, the as-deposited film consists of domains of several microns but it appears that the observed domains are fragments formed by cracks generated in much larger domains, as seen by the shapes. It is hypothesized that there exist giant domains at the air/water interface but cracks are made during the transfer process. Thus, the uni-axial molecular arrangement is kept over the macroscopic range. Considering the random potentials set up by grain boundaries and/or defects, fabrication of the crack-free LB film is considered to be indispensable for realizing metallic properties down to much lower temperatures and global superconductivity.

We have demonstrated for the first time a megapixel (1.3M pixels) CCD pH imager featuring a flash-injection-of-signal-electrons scheme. With a spatial resolution of 3.75μm and pH resolution of 0.16pH at 27.5fps we believe this is a promising device technology for applications such as high throughput DNA sequencing and label-free cell measurement system with sub-cell-size spatial resolution and real-time response.

Nanometer-scale observation and modification of NiO films were performed using a novel technique for scanning near-field optical microscopy (SNOM) combined with a current-sensing function. The novel SNOM was newly developed in order to investigate not only local optical distributions but also local electrical properties of EC materials. In order to detect optical and electrical properties at a local point on the material surface, a cantilever-type metal probe was fabricated. The near-field optical properties could be observed using the local field enhancement effect generated at the edge of the metal probe under p-polarized laser illumination. In regard to electrical observation, the current signal could be observed using the metal probe connected to a highly sensitive current amplifier. The surface topography, optical distribution and current image of the colored electrochromic (EC) material of NiO films were observed simultaneously using the current-sensing SNOM. Furthermore, nanometer-scale EC modification of local bleaching could be performed using the current-sensing SNOM. The current-sensing SNOM opens up new fields of EC materials in nanometer-scale optelectronic applications.

Summary A novel technique for scanning near-field optical microscopy capable of point-contact current-sensing was developed in order to investigate the nanometre-scale optical and electrical properties of electrochromic materials. An apertureless bent-metal probe was fabricated in order to detect optical and current signals at a local point on the electrochromic films. The near-field optical properties could be observed using the local field enhancement effect generated at the edge of the metal probe under p-polarized laser illumination. With regard to electrical properties, current signal could be detected with the metal probe connected to a high-sensitive current amplifier. Using the current-sensing scanning near-field optical microscopy, the surface topography, optical and current images of coloured WO3 thin films were observed simultaneously. Furthermore, nanometre-scale electrochromic modification of local bleaching could be performed using the current-sensing scanning near-field optical microscopy. The current-sensing scanning near-field optical microscopy has potential use in various fields of nanometre-scale optoelectronics.

We used chlorophyll fluorescence to examine photosynthetic responses to excess Mn accumulation in leaves of four tree species differing in successional traits. Betula ermanii Cham. (Be) and Alnus hirsuta Turcz. (Ah) were studied as representatives of early-successional species. Ulmus davidiana Planch. var. japonica (Rehder) Nakai (Ud) was selected as a mid-successional species, and Acer mono Maxim. var. glabrum (Lév. et Van't.) Hara (Am) was chosen as a late-successional species. In Be, Ah and Am, high foliar concentrations of Mn had little effect on maximum photochemical efficiency of photosystem II (PSII), as indicated by the values of dark-adapted F(v)/F(m), whereas a significant decrease was observed in Ud. Photochemical quenching (qP) and the excitation capture efficiency of open PSII (F'(v)/F'(m)) decreased with increasing leaf Mn concentration at photosynthetic steady state after a 15-min exposure to 430mgr;mol m(-2) s(-1) PPFD. Compared with early-successional species, these decreases were greater in mid- and late-successional species leading to lower effective quantum efficiencies of PSII (DeltaF/F'(m) = qP x F'(v)/F'(m) = (F'(m) - F)/F'(m)). To determine the extent of photoinhibition, F(v)/F(m) of the illuminated leaves was remeasured after a 15-min dark period. Compared with the dark-adapted F(v)/F(m), we observed a significant decrease in F(v)/F(m) in Am leaves containing high concentrations of Mn. These chlorophyll fluorescence studies indicate that the early-successional species Be and Ah have a higher tolerance to excessive accumulations of Mn in leaves than the mid- and late-successional species Ud and Am.

Objective. To evaluate individualized growth assessment using the Rossavik growth model for detection of growth-retarded neonates with poor perinatal outcomes. Methods. Rossavik growth models derived from second-trimester ultrasound measurements were used to predict birth characteristics of 154 singleton neonates. Individual fetal growth curve standards for head and abdominal circumference and weight were determined from the data of two scans obtained before 25 weeks' menstrual age and separated by an interval of at least 5 weeks. Comparisons between actual and predicted birth characteristics were expressed by the Growth Potential Realization Index and the Neonatal Growth Assessment Score (NGAS). The proportions of perinatal outcomes (mechanical delivery, low Apgar score, abnormal fetal heart rate [FHR] patterns, neonatal acidosis, meconium staining of amniotic fluid, neonatal intensive care unit admission, and maternal complications), using NGAS, were compared with those by the traditional birth weight-for-gestational age method and the ponderal index, respectively. Results. Of the 154 fetuses studied, 120 had normal growth outcomes at birth; 18 showed evidence of intrauterine growth retardation; and 16 had macrosomia, based on NGAS. According to birth weight-for-gestational age classification, 32 fetuses were small for gestational age; 118 were appropriate for gestational age; and only 4 were large for gestational age. According to the ponderal index, 55 fetuses had growth retardation, 99 showed appropriate growth and there was no macrosomia. There was a significant increase in mechanical deliveries in cases of growth-retarded neonates, determined using the NGAS classification, when compared with events related to normally grown or macrosomic neonates. However, there were no significant differences in mechanical deliveries among the groups by birth weight classification or ponderal index. Both birth weight classification and NGAS classification showed a significant increase in the low Apgar score, abnormal FHR patterns, and neonatal acidosis in infants classified as growth retarded when compared with appropriately grown or macrosomic infants. However, there were no significant differences in the low Apgar score, abnormal FHR patterns, and neonatal acidosis between growth-retarded and appropriately grown infants when they had been so classified by ponderal index. Three growth category classification methods failed to reveal significant differences in meconium staining of amniotic fluid, neonatal intensive care unit admission, and maternal complications among the groups. Conclusion. We do cast doubt on the usefulness of the ponderal index for detection of growth-retarded neonates with poor perinatal outcomes, and individualized growth assessment seems to perform at least as well as the traditional birth weight-for-gestational age method.

Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) behaviours of glassy As2Se3 containing Ag up to 5 at % were measured at various heating rates. The effect of addition of Ag on crystallization of glassy As2Se3 was investigated. The glass transition temperature decreased with increasing Ag content. Crystallization kinetics were analysed on the basis of the two-step process model, where crystal growth takes place after nucleation. For non-doped As2Se3 two-dimensional growth of crystal was predominant, while for Ag-doped ones three-dimensional growth was very likely. It was supposed for all glassy Ag-doped samples that crystal nuclei exist, though micro-crystallites were not observed on X-ray diffraction traces. The activation energy for crystallization and the glass-forming tendency decreased by the addition of Ag.

The concentration and motility of human sperm increase is examined following the oral administration of a traditional herbal medicine, Hochuekki-To using the hypoosmotic swelling (HOS) test. After 1 h incubation in Hochuekki-To, the motility of sperm and the results of the HOS test improved, particularly for severely abnormal sperm. For both the original and incubated sperm, the results of the HOS test improved when Hochuekki-To was used in the swim-up medium for the swim-up washing method rather than when Whittingham's T6 solution was used. Hochuekki-To had a favorable, direct effect on human sperm functions, suggesting an effect on the physiological integrity of sperm membrane.

A heterogeneous multicore SoC (System on a Chip) has been developed for HD (high-definition) multimedia applications that require secure DRM (digital rights management). The SoC integrates three types of processors: two specific-purpose accelerators for a cipher and a high-resolution video decoding; one general-purpose accelerator (MX: Matrix processor); and three CPUs. This is how our SoC achieves high performance and low power consumption with hardware customized for video processing applications that process a large amount of data. To achieve secure data control, hardware memory management and software system virtualization are adopted. The security of the system is the result of the cooperation between the hardware and software on the system. Furthermore, a highly tamper-resistant system is provided on our SiP (system in a package), through DDR memories and Flash ROM that contain confidential information in one package. This secure multimedia processor provides a solution to protect contents and to safely deliver secure sensitive information when processing billing transactions that involve digital content delivery. The SoC was implemented in the 90 nm generic CMOS technology.

Sputtered films of tungsten oxide show good electrochromic characteristics after several cycling of coloring and bleaching procedures (aging). Separately from the main electrochromic band, some absorption bands are observed in infrared region. At the bleached state, a band around 3300 cm −1 increases during the aging process, and this band is assigned as adsorbed water. By coloration, this band is reduced, and another absorption band around 2400 cm −1 increases. The 2400 cm −1 band can be assigned as OH radicals. Decrease of the 3300 cm −1 band may be interpreted by the decomposition of adsorbed water.

A novel technique for scanning near‐field optical microscopy (SNOM) capable of point‐contact current‐sensing have been developed for investigation of nanometer‐scale optical and electrical properties of condensed matters. An apertureless bent‐metal probe was fabricated in order to detect optical and current signals at a local point on the sample surface. The near‐field optical properties could be observed using the local field enhancement effect generated at the edge of the metal probe under p‐polarized laser illumination. With regard to electrical properties, current signal could be detected with the metal probe connected to a high‐sensitive current amplifier. Nanometer‐scale optical and electronic properties of electrochromic (EC) films were investigated using the current‐sensing SNOM. Furthermore, nanometer‐scale EC modification of individual grains bleaching could be successfully performed. The current‐sensing SNOM has potential use in various fields of nanometer‐scale optoelectronics.

A 0.5 /spl mu/m CMOS 622Mb/s 32/spl times/8 shared-buffer ATM switch chip set consists ofa buffer LSI and a control LSI. It has a 768-cell on-chip buffer controlled by a searchable address queue running at 400 MHz with a double-edge triggered hand-shake circuit. The switch realizes 5 Gb/s total throughput with 8-level delay and 4-level cell-loss priorities for multimedia communications. A funnel structure enables a scalable switch size. 32 bit/frame synchronizers are integrated for all input channels.

This paper introduces a VLIW dual-issue RISC processor enhanced with sub-word and DSP instructions for multimedia applications. The processor core integrates 300 k transistors in an 8 mm/sup 2/ area and is implemented with 64 kB RAM onto a 6.0/spl times/6.2 mm/sup 2/ chip in a 2.O V, 0.3 /spl mu/m CMOS process. The processor exploits two modes of parallelism, dual issue instruction execution and 2-way sub-word operation, for a total of four operations per cycle and a peak sustained throughput of 1000 MOPS running at 250 MHz.

A photoconductive photon scanning tunnelling microscope was developed to investigate the point-contact photoconductive properties of condensed matter. In order to detect the current and the optical signal at a local point on a surface, we coated the edge of a bent type fibre probe with indium tin oxide. Thus it was possible to measure both photocurrent and optical property with subwavelength resolution. The performance of the novel microscope was evaluated by analysing an organic thin film of copper phthalocyanine (CuPc), which is known to be an efficient photoconductive material. Photocurrent and current–voltage characteristics were observed at the local point on the CuPc thin films. Furthermore, photoconductive images were obtained with topography and near-field optical imaging using this system. The photoconductive PSTM shows potential in various areas of future optics and electronics.

SummaryPredictive values of serum CA125 and serum progesterone were evaluated in 152 pregnant women with threatened abortion before 7 weeks menstrual age. Eighty patients carried to term and 72 aborted. The predictive values for abortion of serum CA 125 and serum progesterone were 79 and 77 per cent, respectively. When combined, the predictive value for abortion of serum CA 125 and serum progesterone was 93 per cent. The predictive values for successful outcome of pregnancy of serum CA 125 and serum progesterone were 83 and 64 per cent, respectively, and increased to 90 per cent when both measurements were considered. The prognosis of patients with threatened abortion can be predicted before 7 weeks menstrual age by using serum CA 125 and progesterone determinations.

The effects of four manganese (Mn) concentrations (1, 10, 50, and 100 g m-3 = Mn1, Mn10, Mn50, Mn100) in solution culture on growth variables were studied for seedlings of five deciduous broad-leaved trees with different successional characteristics and shoot development patterns in northern Japan. The five species were: Betula ermanii, Betula platyphylla var. japonica, and Alnus hirsuta (early-successional species with continuous leaf development), Ulmus davidiana var. japonica (mid-successional species with flush and continuous leaf development), and Acer mono (late-successional species with a flush type leaf development). In plants grown in the Mn environment for about 45 d, relative growth rate (RGR) decreased with increasing Mn supply. Between the 1 and 100 g(Mn) m-3, RGR decreased by 20 % for B. ermanii and B. platyphylla, by 40 % for A. hirsuta and A. mono, and by 80 % for U. davidiana. Specific leaf area (SLA) and leaf mass ratio (LMR) of all species were little affected by high Mn supply. In U. davidiana, however, there was a 67 % decrease in LMR in Mn100 plants. Leaf area ratio (LAR) was higher in early-successional species than in mid- and late-successional ones but differed little among Mn treatments within species, except for U. davidiana where LAR declined substantially with increased Mn supply. While LAR, which represents the relative size of assimilatory apparatus, was little affected, net photosynthetic rate (PN) saturated with radiant energy decreased with increasing Mn supply in all species. Thus PN was adversely affected by high accumulation of Mn in leaves, which resulted in an overall reduction in biomass production. However, the proportional allocation of photosynthates to the assimilatory apparatus was not affected by different Mn toxicity in hardwood tree seedlings.

Growth of the fetal cerebellum was monitored by transverse cerebellar diameter (CD) from 14 to 39 weeks menstrual age in 125 Japanese fetuses. The growth curve for this parameter was determine using a Rossavik growth model [p = c(t)k(t)]. An R2 value of 95.5% was obtained for CD. Variability analysis indicated a progressive increase in variability with fetal age for this parameter. Variability data were used with the growth curve model to determine a standard curve for this parameter. This standard curve provides a superior means to evaluate normal fetal cerebellar growth in the fetus and to identify cerebellar abnormalities in utero.

In the present study, the effect of the concentration of the hypoosmotic solution, incubation time and duration from sperm collection to incubation on the hypoosmotic swelling (HOS) test were evaluated. Sperm were obtained from 20 fertile donors. The most stable sperm tail swelling was obtained at 150 mOsm. Incubation for 30 minutes was sufficient for the evaluation of overall swelling but not for the evaluation of b- and g-type sperm swelling. This suggests that incubation for one hour is necessary to obtain stable results. Incubation for more than one hour did not affect the percentage or type of sperm swelling. The time from sperm collection to incubation did not affect the HOS test. The HOS test is practical and not affected by the duration of incubation or time from sperm collection to incubation.

In order to investigate the pathological characteristics of polycystic ovaries diagnosed by transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and to investigate the relationship between morphological and endocrine changes in the ovaries, 32 PCOS patients with bilateral polycystic ovaries (10 cysts) detected by TVS were studied; 20 ovulatory women served as controls. Ovarian tissues from wedge resection were examined histologically. A comparative histological and TVS study of ovarian morphology was made, and the relationship between the number of small cysts and the endocrine profile was examined. The position and size of small cysts on TVS agreed with those observed histologically. There was a significant correlation between the number of small cysts on TVS and the number of atretic follicles with hypertrophied and luteinized inner theca cells, and thickened ovarian capsules. Numerous atretic follicles and thickened ovarian capsules were observed in 97 and 64% of ovaries respectively, from PCOS patients. In patients with PCOS, a significant positive correlation was noted both between the number of small cysts and delta 4-androstenedione (ASD), and between ASD and the luteinizing hormone/follicle-stimulating hormone (LH/FSH) ratio. Furthermore, testosterone, ASD and the number of small cysts on TVS were significantly higher in PCOS patients with ovarian thickened tunica compared to PCOS patients without ovarian thickened tunica. TVS images of ovaries in patients with PCOS correlated with the histopathological and endocrine features. It is suggested that an increase in intra-ovarian small cysts leads to increased production of ovarian androgen, in turn influencing the secretion of gonadotrophin, and is correlated with ovarian capsular thickness.

To investigate the effect of an herbal medicine, Shakuyaku-Kanzo-To (TJ-68), on endocrine variables in patients with polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD).Medical university hospital.Thirty-four Japanese women with PCOD were treated daily with 7.5 g of TJ-68 for 24 weeks. Testosterone (T), free-testosterone (free-T), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), LH, FSH, estrone, 17 beta-estradiol, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylglycol (DOPEG), and 3, 4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) were examined.No side effects were observed in any cases. At 4 weeks after initiation of treatment, serum T and free-T levels significantly decreased, while SHBG was not significantly elevated. Meanwhile, after 12 weeks of treatment, the mean serum T level of the patients who became pregnant decreased to 35% of that before the treatment, but levels did not change in the patients who failed to conceive. There was no significant difference in estrone/estradiol ratio before and after treatment, but the estradiol/testosterone ratio increased significantly after 4 weeks of treatment. The LH/FSH ratio after 24 weeks of treatment was significantly lower than that before treatment. DOPEG and the DOPEG/DOPAC ratio significantly decreased after 4 weeks of treatment.It is suggested that TJ-68 acts directly on the ovary first, increasing the activity of aromatase, which promotes the synthesis of estradiol from testosterone, thus lowering serum T levels. Furthermore, the effect on catecholamines results in gradually improving the dissociate phenomenon of LH/FSH ratio. Therefore, TJ-68 is an effective herbal medicine for decreasing serum free-T levels and achieving pregnancy in patients with PCOD.

The effect of serum from patients with threatened abortion on in vitro development of two-cell mouse embryos was evaluated. Embryos were cultured for 72 hours in 7.5% serum supplement from patients with threatened abortion and from women with normal pregnancies and in Ham's F-10 medium with no serum supplement. Significantly fewer embryos developed to the blastocyst stage at 72 hours in the threatened abortion group as compared with the normal pregnancy group and Ham's F-10 (P.001). These results suggest the presence of serum factors that are toxic to early embryonic development and thus may play a role in the pathogenesis of threatened abortion.

Chemical fat saturation (FS) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the characterization of ovarian cystic teratoma was evaluated in 19 patients with 22 lesions. The tumour was evaluated for signal intensity, location and size; the presence of chemical shift artefact, debris and fat-fluid level. Ovarian cystic teratoma was diagnosed prospectively if the mass contained fat and/or more than one type of internal pattern on (1) SE T1-, T2-, (2) SE T1-, T2-, FS T1-weighted images. A correct diagnosis was reached in 17 of 22 tumours on conventional T1- and T2-weighted images, and in 21 of 22 tumours when fat-saturation images were added. When fat-saturation images were added, four of five tumours misdiagnosed on conventional images were then correctly diagnosed. These tumours contained only small amounts of fat. Fat-saturation images could detect smaller amounts of fat than conventional images. However, one tumour did not show decreased intensity on fat saturation images, and was not diagnosed even when fat-saturation images were added. Fat saturation images have been shown to be of value in diagnosing cystic teratomas.

In order to investigate the androgen and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels in the polycystic ovary, we compared the total testosterone, free testosterone and SHBG levels in three patterns of polycystic ovary diagnosed with transvaginal ultrasonography (18 in group 1, fewer than 5 cysts identified; 16 in group 2, 5-10 cysts; and 27 in group 3, 10 or more). Free testosterone, but not total testosterone, significantly correlated with body mass index. Androgen levels were found to increase and SHBG levels to decrease with increases in the amount of ovarian cysts, and the evaluation of free testosterone was important in diagnosing the polycystic ovary syndrome.

To investigate the catecholamine status of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome.Three parallel groups with polycystic ovary were diagnosed by ultrasound: (a) 5 patients with regularly ovulatory menstruation; (b) 10 with anovulatory menstruation; (c) 13 with secondary amenorrhea who responded to progestagen with withdrawal bleeding. Blood samples for measurement of LH, testosterone, and catecholamine metabolites were drawn during cycle days 4-7.(1) Serum LH and testosterone of the patient groups (b) and (c) were significantly higher than those of controls. (2) Plasma 3,4-dihydroxyphenylglycol (DOPEG) and the DOPEG/DOPAC ratio were elevated in patients, and DOPAC levels were reduced. However, there was no significant difference of catecholamine metabolites among the three patient groups.The androgen status in polycystic ovary diagnosed by ultrasound is correlated, but catecholamine status is not correlated, with the menstrual irregularity of polycystic ovary syndrome.

To determine correlation between hypoosmotic swelling (HOS) test on post-swim-up sperm and results of IVF.University clinic IVF program.Sixty-three women, with various infertility factors; Buserelin plus hMG and hCG used for all patients. HOS test performed on original and swim-up samples of husband's semen.Fertilization, as shown by two pronuclei and two polar bodies 18 hours post-insemination.Post-swim-up HOS test had a correlation (r) of .68 (P.001) with fertilization.

Histological repair of the cervical epithelium after CO2 laser conization was studied using resected uterus specimens. (1) Squamous epithelium (ectocervical side) and reserve cells (endocervical side), were seen immediately after conization; (2) HE staining showed that the S-C junction was formed within 4 weeks. (3) Endocervical epithelial repair of the S-C junction tended to be delayed, and the new S-C junction was deeper in the endocervical canal than before conization; (4) The stroma was repaired within 7 weeks, by prompt collagenization.

The present study compares the ovarian area and the androgen levels (testosterone, free testosterone, SHBG, testosterone/SHBG ratio) in the two patterns (peripheral cystic pattern, general cystic pattern) of polycystic ovaries diagnosed by transvaginal ultrasound. The results were as follows. (1) The ovarian area of the peripheral cystic pattern group of polycystic ovaries was significantly greater than that of normal controls, but in the general cystic group it was not. (2) Serum levels of testosterone and free testosterone, and the testosterone/SHBG ratio in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome were significantly higher than those of healthy controls; but with ultrasonographic classification, there was no significant difference between the peripheral cystic and general cystic groups. (3) In the polycystic ovary syndrome, elevated levels of testosterone and free testosterone, and of the testosterone/SHBG ratio were observed in approximately half of the patients. Ovarian morphology was different, but androgen status was similar in the two patterns of polycystic ovaries.

The present study was undertaken to investigate the relationship between serum testosterone levels, the menstrual cycle, and polycystic ovaries as shown by ultrasonographic methods. The patients were divided into four groups: (1) cases with normal-appearing ovaries and with regular menstruation (control); (2) cases with normal ovaries on ultrasound, but with abnormalities of the menstrual cycle (MA); (3) cases with polycystic ovaries, but normal menstrual cycle (PCO); (4) cases with both polycystic ovaries and menstrual abnormalities (PCOMA). The results were as follows. (1) The ovarian area was significantly larger in the PCOMA group than in the control group. (2) The number of cases with elevated LH (greater than 30 mIU/mL) was significantly higher in the PCOMA group than in the other groups. (3) In comparison with controls, the percentage of cases with LH/FSH ratios greater than 3.0 was significantly higher in all three groups. (4) The estrone/17 beta-estradiol ratio for the PCOMA group was significantly greater than those of the other groups. (5) The testosterone levels of the PCO and PCOMA group were significantly greater than the control value. (6) The percentage of endocrine criteria (LH greater than 30 mIU/mL or LH/FSH ratio greater than 3.0, estrone/17 beta estradiol ratio greater than 1.0 testosterone greater than 75, greater than 100, and greater than 125 ng/dL) for PCOMA was significantly higher than that of the MA group and the control group, but not significantly greater than the PCO group. It is suggested that morphological changes in the ovaries show a closer correlation with abnormalities of endocrine function than does the presence or absence of abnormalities of the menstrual cycle.

The role of catecholamine activity in the GnRH-LH system among cases of polycystic ovary syndrome was investigated by high-performance liquid chromatography using an electrochemical detector. We measured plasma levels of catecholamine metabolites, 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG) and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), in relation to LH-RH administration in 23 women with polycystic ovary syndrome. MHPG concentrations were significantly higher in polycystic ovary syndrome patients than in ten control subjects in early follicular phase. The peak values of LH after LH-RH administration were significantly correlated with plasma MHPG concentrations. These data suggest that an excess of norepinephrine is present in polycystic ovary syndrome and that the hypophyseal response to LH-RH administration is correlated with catecholamine, especially norepinephrine activity.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by chronic anovulation, elevated serum estrogen and androgen levels, and inappropriate gonadotropin secretion. The present study compares the androgen levels (free testosterone) and catecholamine metabolites (DOPAC as a marker of central dopaminergic activity, DOPEG as one of adrenergic activity) in patients with PCOS and normal controls. The mean serum LH and free testosterone levels of polycystic ovary patients were significantly higher than those of normal controls. The mean DOPEG/DOPAC ratio in the polycystic ovary patients was significantly higher than those of the control group and there was a significant correlation between free testosterone and DOPEG or the DOPEG/DOPAC ratio. It is suggested that, in vivo, norepinephrine excess is present in women with PCOS and that a hyperandrogenemic status is correlated with catecholamine activity.

Color and pulsed Doppler ultrasound examinations were done on 11 normal volunteers (NU) and 286 patients that consisted of cervical carcinoma (CC), leiomyoma and/or adenomyosis (M), endometrial carcinoma (EC), trophoblastic disease (TD), benign ovarian tumor (BO), Krukenberg tumor (KT) and ovarian carcinoma (OC). The vascularity was based on the resistance index (RI) and maximum blood flow velocity (Vmax). In uterine disease, there was significant difference (p less than 0.01) among each group, except but one correspondence between NU and CC with RI, and there was significant difference (p less than 0.001) between NU and M, CC and M with Vmax. In ovarian disease, there was significant difference among each group with RI, and there was no significant difference among each group with Vmax. Therefore, Doppler ultrasound is a useful diagnostic tool for assessing gynecologic tumor vascularity.

Ovarian arterial velocimetry was performed using color and pulsed Doppler ultrasound. Seventy-one examinations were done on 9 healthy women with regular menstrual cycles. The change in ovarian arterial compliance was based on the calculation of the pulsatility index (PI). In the active ovary carrying a dominant follicle or corpus luteum, PI in the early proliferative phase was significantly higher than that in the late proliferative phase (p less than 0.001), and PI in the early secretory phase was significantly lower than that in the late proliferative phase (p less than 0.001). PI became significantly higher in the late secretory phase than that in the early secretory phase (p less than 0.001). In the inactive ovary without a follicle of corpus luteum, no changes were seen among the values for PI, in any menstrual phase. There was a significant difference between the values for PI in the active ovary and the inactive ovary in the late proliferative, the early and the late secretory phases (p less than 0.001), respectively. The PI values for the active ovary significantly correlated with the serum progesterone levels (r = -0.53, p less than 0.05) but not with the estradiol levels. These findings provide a useful foundation for assessing ovarian hemodynamics during the menstrual cycle.

Serum levels of CA 125 in 33 patients with progressive external endometriosis who were treated with 400 mg/day of Danazol for 16 weeks were assayed for an extended period (24-40 weeks), and changes in the CA 125 pattern were analyzed. Patterns of hormonal response were classified into four types. Prognosis for one type was good, whereas that for the other three types was poor. By making use of these patterns, we were able to determine more accurately the proper dose of Danazol, to alter the duration of treatment, and to predict relapse.

Genetical differences in changes in blood pressure (BP) were chronologically investigated during pregnancy in stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSP), Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY) and Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Especially, the early stages were carefully studied. Maternal conditions in SHRSP were modified by the treatments with NaCl and taurine, respectively. BP in SHRSP and WKY rose significantly at the early stage of pregnancy compared to prepregnancy levels (SHRSP; 208 +/- 2 mmHg vs 197 +/- 5 mmHg, WKY; 133 +/- 2 mmHg vs 126 +/- 1 mmHg) (p less than 0.05). In contrast, no such changes were observed in SD rats. Differences in 24-hour urinary epinephrine excretion before and during pregnancy ran parallel with such BP changes among these strains. NaCl-loaded SHRSP died during pregnancy with severe pathohistological changes in their kidneys and severe proteinuria. Taurine treatment had a marked prophylactic effect on these maternal pathological changes during pregnancy, resulting in better growth in offsprings. These results suggest that SHRSP could be one of the suitable animal models for the studies on toxemia of pregnancy and also suggest an important role of hypertensive genetical disposition in the development of toxemia of pregnancy.

Ovarian arterial velocimetry, using real-time two-dimensional and pulsed Doppler ultrasound, was performed on 36 occasions in nine healthy women with regular menstrual cycles. The change in ovarian arterial compliance was based on the calculation of pulsatility index (PI). In the active ovary carrying a dominant follicle or corpus luteum, the PI in the early follicular phase (mean 6.97, SD 2.01) was significantly higher than that in the late follicular phase (mean 2.36, SD 0.31) (P less than 0.001), and the PI in the early luteal phase (mean 0.68, SD 0.09) was significantly lower than that in the late follicular phase (P less than 0.001). The PI in the late luteal phase (mean 0.93, SD 0.16) was significantly higher than that in the early luteal phase (P less than 0.01). In the inactive ovary, no cyclical changes were seen in the values of PI. There was a significant difference between the values of PI in the active ovary and the inactive ovary in the late follicular, the early and the late luteal phases [2.36 (SD 0.31)] vs [6.29 (SD 1.02)], [0.68 (SD 0.09)] vs [6.18 (SD 1.33)], [0.93 (SD 0.16) vs [6.57 (SD 1.72)] (P less than 0.001), respectively. Use of non-invasive Doppler ultrasound to study physiology of ovarian haemodynamics during the menstrual cycle is of great clinical relevance and paves the way for further investigations on sterility.

The present study evaluated the degree of renal impairment caused by intra-arterial hypertensive chemotherapy (CDDP, PEP). In 11 cases of advanced cancer of the uterine cervix, serum and urinary levels of alpha 1-microglobulin (alpha 1-m) and beta 2-microglobulin (beta 2-m), and urinary albumin (Alb) and lysozyme (LZM) were determined before the chemotherapy and 1,2 and 3 weeks after the therapy. Results are summarized as follows: 1. After intra-arterial chemotherapy, the histological classification was Grade I in 1 case (9.1%), Grade IIa in 2 cases (18.2%), and Grade IIb in 8 cases (72.7%). 2. Serum alpha 1-m and beta 2-m levels remained within the normal range after chemotherapy. 3. Urinary alpha 1-m, beta 2-m and LZM levels exceeded the normal limit between 1 and 2 weeks after the therapy, but thereafter they returned to normal. 4. Urinary Alb was significantly increased (p less than 0.05) between 1 and 2 weeks after therapy, but thereafter it returned to normal. These results suggested that intra-arterial chemotherapy (CDDP 100mg and PEP 40 mg in a dose) was effective for advanced cancer of the cervix and that renal disorders including tubular and glomerular impairment, which are the adverse effects of the therapy, were mild and reversible.

For the diagnosis and evaluation of the therapy for male infertility and for predicting the outcome of AIH and IVF-ET, technically simple, replicable tests that can be performed virtually anywhere and that have definite reliability are required. The results of the HOS test correlate well with the functions of the sperm cell membrane, indicating such aspects as motility, and it is thought to be a particularly effective test of human sperm fertility. Because the HOS test reflects the functions and integrity of the sperm cell membrane, it should be possible to use it to predict the potential for fertilization of frozen sperm.

Plasma LH levels in women and female laboratory animals fluctuate. Since catecholamines play a role in gonadotropin secretion, we investigated the possible correlation between catecholamine metabolites and pulsatile patterns of gonadotropin release by measuring two catecholamine metabolites, MHPG and DOPAC. LH levels had a pulsatile pattern, and the levels of MHPG fluctuated. The average of LH and MHPG in polycystic ovary syndrome was significantly higher than that of a normal ovulatory cycle, and the average fluctuation of LH and MHPG in polycystic ovary syndrome was also significantly greater than that in a normal ovulatory cycle. There may be a correlation between the pulsatile pattern of gonadotropin and catecholamine activity, particularly adrenergic activity. It is suspected that adrenergic activity may correlate with the pulsatile pattern in polycystic ovary syndrome.

We investigated 312 sterile women to look for a possible relationship between obesity and infertility. The LH-RH test was performed on 113 of these women. The obesity index was determined according to the Japanese variation of Broca's index. The results were as follows: (1) Among 312 sterile women, 8.7% were obese and one-fifth of anovulatory patients showed a tendency toward obesity. (2) The pregnancy rate was lower in obese women. (3) The delayed-reaction type in the LH-RH test was observed in 29.2% of total patients; the rate in patients with anovulation (20.4%) was lower than that in those with ovulation (37.3%). (4) The rate of the delayed-reaction type in anovulatory obese patients was 100%. This evidence shows that obesity was related to anovulation and/or infertility, as determined by the delayed-reaction type in the LH-RH test.