Uniaxial cyclic stretch increases glucose uptake into C2C12 myotubes through a signaling pathway independent of insulin-like growth factor I

Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), an autocrine/paracrine growth factor involved in myogenesis, has rapid effects on muscle metabolism. In a manner analogous to insulin and mechanical stimuli such as stretch, IGF-I stimulates glucose transport through recruitment of glucose transporters to surface membranes in skeletal muscles. It is known that IGF-I is secreted from skeletal muscle cells in response to stretch. Therefore, we examined whether IGF-I is involved in the mechanism by which mechanical stretch regulates glucose transport using cultured C2C12 myotubes. IGF-I increased 2-deoxy- D-glucose (2-DG) uptake, and this created an additive effect with mechanical stretch, suggesting that these stimuli enhance glucose transport through different mechanisms. In fact, IGF-I-stimulated 2-DG uptake was not blocked by dantrolene (an inhibitor of Ca (2+)release from sarcoplasmic reticulum), whereas the stretch-stimulated effect was abolished. Conversely, the IGF-I-stimulated 2-DG uptake was prevented by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitor wortmannin, which did not prevent the stretch-stimulated 2-DG uptake. In addition, experiments using media conditioned by stretched myotubes indicated that a mechanically induced release of locally acting autocrine/paracrine growth factors was not sufficient for induction of 2-DG uptake. Thus, our results demonstrate that mechanical stretch signaling for glucose transport is independent of the mechanism through which IGF-I increases this transport.

Long-term interleukin-1alpha treatment inhibits insulin signaling via IL-6 production and SOCS3 expression in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

Proinflammatory cytokines are well-known to inhibit insulin signaling to result in insulin resistance. IL-1alpha is also one of the proinflammatory cytokines, but the mechanism of how IL-1alpha induces insulin resistance remains unclear. We have now examined the effects of IL-1alpha on insulin signaling in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Prolonged IL-1alpha treatment for 12 to 24 hours partially decreased the protein levels as well as the insulin-stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of IRS-1 and Akt phosphorylation. mRNA for SOCS3, an endogenous inhibitor of insulin signaling, was dramatically augmented 4 hours after IL-1alpha treatment. Concomitantly, the level of IL-6 in the medium and STAT3 phosphorylation were increased by the prolonged IL-1alpha treatment. Addition of anti-IL-6 neutralizing antibody to the medium or overexpression of dominant-negative STAT3 decreased the IL-1alpha-stimulated STAT3 activation and SOCS3 induction, and ameliorated insulin signaling. These results suggest that the IL-1alpha-mediated deterioration of insulin signaling is largely due to the IL-6 production and SOCS3 induction in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.

Isolated limb sensory disturbance accompanied with sudden deafness from vertebral artery dissection: a case report

A 52-year-old male presented with right sudden deafness and left isolated limb sensory disturbance following posterior neck pain. An examination revealed a mild degree of right sensory neural hearing loss and decreased pain and thermal sensation in the left side below the L3 level. Brain MRI showed a small lesion in the midlateral portion of the right middle-rostral medulla. The combination of the image findings suggests a right lateral medullary infarction caused by a vertebral artery (VA) dissection. In our case, the fibers carrying the modalities of the lateral spinothalamic tract restricted to below the L3 level, sparing other sensations, suggest a selective involvement. This finding suggests that sensory dermatomal representation in the modality may be preserved at least up to the level of the medulla oblongata. Moreover, in our case, the small emboli originating from the dissected VA possibly caused a small selective cochlear infarction. This type of embolism may give rise to various combinations of symptoms depending on the branches involved. For patients with an acute onset of headache or neck pain who present with isolated limb sensory disturbance accompanied by sudden deafness, even without the classical brainstem signs, a VA dissection and medullary infarction should therefore be considered.

Interferon Beta-1b may reverse axonal dysfunction in multiple sclerosis

Progression of the disability of multiple sclerosis (MS) is thought to be related to axonal damage that is seen even in normal appearing white matter (NAWM) of patients' brains. Interferon beta (IFNβ) treatment for MS reduces the frequency of clinical exacerbations and the appearance of new inflammatory demyelinating lesions on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, the effect of IFNβ treatment on axonal damage in MS is not known. The present study aimed to assess the effect of IFNβ on axonal function by comparing the data from localised single voxel proton MR spectroscopy (MRS) performed on eight MS patients given IFNβ-1b treatment and 11 untreated patients. Brain MRI and MRS were performed before the initiation of IFNβ-1b treatment and 24 months after treatment initiation. Levels of N-acetylaspartate (NAA), choline-containing compounds (Cho) and creatine (Cr) were calculated as the areas under their peaks shown on MRS and the ratios of NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr were calculated. In the patients treated with IFNβ-1b there was a significant increase in the ratio of NAA/Cr in NAWM (p=0.028) at 24 months after the initiation of treatment. In contrast, there was no significant change in the NAA/Cr ratio in the untreated patients. These results suggest that IFNβ-1b treatment might recover axonal function in NAWM of MS patients.

Effects of delta-opioid receptor stimulation and inhibition on hippocampal survival in a rat model of forebrain ischaemia

BACKGROUND

It has been reported that delta-opioid (DOP) receptor agonists may be neuroprotective in the central nervous system. However, the DOP agonist [d-Ala(2), d-Leu(5)]enkephalin (DADLE) does not produce neuroprotection in severe forebrain ischaemia. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of DADLE on hippocampal neurone survival against less severe forebrain ischaemia.

METHODS

Intraperitoneal injection of DADLE (0 or 16 mg kg(-1)) in male Sprague-Dawley rats was performed 30 min before ischaemia. Severe (10 min), moderate (8 min), or mild (6 min) forebrain ischaemia was produced by bilateral carotid occlusion combined with hypotension (35 mm Hg) under isoflurane (1.5%) anaesthesia. Naltrindole (10 mg kg(-1)) (DOP antagonist) was administered 30 min before DADLE in order to confirm DOP receptor activation in the neuroprotective efficacy of DADLE. Naltrindole alone was also administered 30 min before ischaemia to examine endogenous DOP agonism as a self-protecting mechanism against ischaemia. All animals were evaluated neurologically and histologically after a 1 week recovery period.

RESULTS

DADLE improved neurone survival in hippocampal CA3 and dentate gyrus (DG) sectors. CA1 neurones were not protected against moderate and mild ischaemia. Naltrindole abolished DADLE neuroprotection in the CA3 and DG after both moderate and mild ischaemia. Interestingly, regardless of co-administration of DADLE, naltrindole significantly worsened neuronal injury in the CA1 region after mild ischaemia.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that DADLE provides limited neuroprotection to relatively ischaemia-resistant regions but not to selectively vulnerable regions. This was probably mediated by DOP stimulation. Pre-ischaemic treatment with a DOP antagonist, regardless of co-administration of DADLE, worsened neuronal damage at the selectively vulnerable regions only after mild forebrain ischaemia. These data suggest that DOP activation with endogenous DOP ligand may be involved in self-protecting ischaemia-sensitive regions of the brain.

Hippocampal synapsin I, growth-associated protein-43, and microtubule-associated protein-2 immunoreactivity in learned helplessness rats and antidepressant-treated rats

Learned helplessness rats are thought to be an animal model of depression. To study the role of synapse plasticity in depression, we examined the effects of learned helplessness and antidepressant treatments on synapsin I (a marker of presynaptic terminals), growth-associated protein-43 (GAP-43; a marker of growth cones), and microtubule-associated protein-2 (MAP-2; a marker of dendrites) in the hippocampus by immunolabeling. (1) Learned helplessness rats showed significant increases in the expression of synapsin I two days after the attainment of learned helplessness, and significant decreases in the protein expression eight days after the achievement of learned helplessness. Subchronic treatment of naïve rats with imipramine or fluvoxamine significantly decreased the expression of synapsin I. (2) Learned helplessness increased the expression of GAP-43 two days and eight days after learned helplessness training. Subchronic treatment of naïve rats with fluvoxamine but not imipramine showed a tendency to decrease the expression of synapsin I. (3) Learned helplessness rats showed increased expression of MAP-2 eight days after the attainment of learned helplessness. Naïve rats subchronically treated with imipramine showed a tendency toward increased expression of MAP-2, but those treated with fluvoxamine did not. These results indicate that the neuroplasticity-related proteins synapsin I, GAP-43, and MAP-2 may play a role in the pathophysiology of depression and the mechanisms of antidepressants.

Evaluating the effects of spatial frequency on migraines by using pattern-reversal visual evoked potentials

OBJECTIVE

To clarify the effects of contrast and spatial frequency in patients with migraine by means of pattern-reversal visual evoked potentials (PVEPs).

METHODS

PVEPs were obtained from 14 patients who had migraine without aura (MO), 11 patients who had migraine with aura (MA), and 25 age-matched, healthy controls (CO). PVEPs were binocularly recorded with a reversal rate of 1Hz (2 reversal/s) at 3 spatial frequencies (0.5, 1.0 and 4.0 cpd) at high (98%), medium (83%) and low (29%) contrast. N75, P100 and N135 latency and the amplitudes of P50-N75, N75-P100 and P100-N135 were analyzed.

RESULTS

Increased amplitude of PVEPs in patients with migraines were revealed at 3 different spatial frequencies in all components. The MO and the MA showed increased amplitudes mostly in high contrasts (98%). These findings were detected more at a high spatial frequency (4.0 cpd) than at a low spatial frequency (0.5 cpd). Increased amplitude with prolonged latency of N135 were found both in MO and MA at 4.0 cpd.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that pattern stimuli of high contrasts may be particularly effective in uncovering abnormal cortical reactivity which may be modified in the primary and secondary visual cortex in the interictal state of migraine.

SIGNIFICANCE

These findings indicate that there is abnormal visual cortex processing in patients with migraine.

Ileocolonic lymphomas: a series of 16 cases

BACKGROUND

Colonoscopic and clinical differences between primary ileocolonic mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma and mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) have not been defined.

METHODS

We reviewed colonoscopic and clinical features in eight patients with primary MALT lymphoma and eight patients with MCL in the terminal ileum and/or colorectum. All cases were examined for CD5 and/or cyclin D1 expression.

RESULTS

Endoscopic features of MALT lymphoma were characterized as protrusions that were covered with normal-appearing mucosa with or without ulceration. The gross appearances of MALT lymphomas were categorized as solitary (4 patients), multiple (3 patients), and multiple lymphomatous polyposis (MLP) (1 patient). The gross features of MCL at endoscopy were categorized as multiple protrusions (2 patients), and MLP (6 patients). The clinical stages of patients with MCL were more advanced than in patients with MALT lymphoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Solitary or multiple protrusions at an early clinical stage is the most common presentation pattern of patients with MALT lymphoma, but an MLP appearance at an early stage is also possible. On the other hand, MLP appearance with an advanced clinical stage is the main presentation pattern in patients with MCL, although multiple protrusions with an early clinical stage is also possible. Histological and immunohistochemical investigation including that of cyclin D1 and CD5 expression is essential to make the final diagnosis.

Comparison of changes in jugular venous bulb oxygen saturation and cerebral oxygen saturation during variations of haemoglobin concentration under propofol and sevoflurane anaesthesia

BACKGROUND

A severe reduction in haemoglobin concentration can lead to a decrease in jugular venous bulb oxygen saturation (Sj(O(2))). However, recent evidences suggests that cerebral oxygen saturation (Sc(O(2))) measured by near infrared spectroscopy decreased during even mild haemodilution. We therefore tested the hypothesis that the changes in Sc(O(2)) may not be parallel to those in Sj(O(2)) during haemodilution. In addition, as cerebral oxygen balance during the operation can vary depending on the anaesthetics used, the changes in Sj(O(2)) and Sc(O(2)) during haemodilution were compared between patients under propofol and isoflurane/nitrous oxide anaesthesia.

METHODS

Forty-two patients with pre-donated autologous blood were randomly assigned to receive propofol (Group P) or sevoflurane/nitrous oxide (Group S) anaesthesia. A fibreoptic catheter was placed in the jugular bulb to measure Sj(O(2)). A cerebral oximeter, INVOS 4100S was used to monitor Sc(O(2)). Arterial and jugular bulb blood samples were drawn simultaneously at: (i) 10 min after the start of operation, (ii) after 400 ml of blood loss, (iii) after 800 ml of blood loss, (iv) just before the transfusion of pre-donated autologous blood, and (v) after 400 ml transfusion.

RESULTS

Mean (sd) control values of Sj(O(2)) in Group P were significantly lower than those in Group S (55 (8)% vs 71 (10)%, respectively; P<0.05), whereas there was no significant difference in control values of Sc(O(2)) between the two groups. During the operation, haemoglobin (Hb) concentrations significantly deceased in the both groups compared with control values (from 9.8 to 7.6 g dl(-1) in Group P and from 9.9 to 8.0 g dl(-1) in Group S). During a reduction in Hb concentration, Sj(O(2)) values remained unchanged in both groups, whereas Sc(O(2)) values significantly decreased in both groups (from 57 to 51% in Group P and from 59 to 52% in Group S).

CONCLUSION

The results indicated that, although the changes in Sj(O(2)) and Sc(O(2)) during a reduction in haemoglobin concentration were similar under propofol and sevoflurane/nitrous oxide anaesthesia, the changes in Sc(O(2)) were not parallel to those in Sj(O(2)). The discrepancy of the results in Sj(O(2)) and Sc(O(2)) may make the interpretation of their values difficult during haemodilution.

Pregnenolone and dehydroepiandrosterone administration in neonatal rats alters the immunoreactivity of hippocampal synapsin I, neuropeptide Y and glial fibrillary acidic protein at post-puberty

It is well documented that neurosteroids administered during the neonatal period influence the development of several brain systems. In our previous study, pregnenolone administered to rats during the neonatal period altered adenosinergic and dopaminergic functions in the striatum and cerebral cortex. The present study examined the effects of the treatment with pregnenolone and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) from the postnatal day (P) 3-P7 on synapsin I (a marker for presynaptic terminals) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP: a marker for astroglia) levels in the hippocampus of Sprague-Dawley rats at 3 and 7 weeks of age. In addition, neuropeptide Y and dynorphin A immunoreactivity was measured. The administration of pregnenolone and DHEA to neonatal rats significantly altered the expression of synapsin I in the dentate gyrus and CA3 region at post-puberty but not at pre-puberty. A significantly greater expression of GFAP-immunoreactive astrocytes or processes was demonstrated in the pregnenolone- and DHEA-treated groups at both pre-puberty and post-puberty. A significant increase in the number and size of GFAP-immunoreactive astrocytes and in the extension of arborization was seen in the overall hippocampus. The number of neuropeptide Y-positive cells in the hilus region was also significantly increased in the neurosteroid-treated group at post-puberty. No differences were detected in dynorphin A immunoreactivity among the experimental groups. These results of this study suggest that pregnenolone and DHEA play an important role in the development of hippocampus.

337THE ONSET AND DURATION OF OVULATION IN DAIRY COWS SUPEROVULATED FOLLOWING SYNCHRONIZATION OF FOLLICLE WAVE WITH CIDR AND ESTRADIOL BENZOATE

Determining the optimal time for AI of superovulated cattle is important for yielding acceptable fertilization rates. The objectives of this study were to determine the interval to onset, and the duration of ovulation in dairy cows superstimulated with FSH following synchronization of follicular wave emergence with a CIDR and estradiol benzoate (EB). Holstein (n=8) and Jersey (n=1) cows received an intravaginal progesterone insert (CIDR-B, InterAg, Hamilton, New Zealand) combined with an injection of 2mg EB at a random stage of the estrous cycle (Day 0). Superstimulatory treatments were initiated on Day 6 with a total dose of 24 or 36mg FSH (Antrin, Denka, Kawasaki, Japan) via twice-daily i.m. injections in decreasing doses for 4 days. At 72h after the first FSH injection, 30mg PGF (Pronalgon F, Pharmacia, Tsukuba, Japan) was administered, and CIDR-B were removed at 80h. Transrectal ultrasonography of ovaries was performed at 3-h intervals from 40 to 77h after the PGF injection. The numbers of ovulations were counted as previously described (Purwantara et al. 1994 Anim. Reprod. Sci. 37, 1–5). All detected follicles were counted and classified as small, medium, or large (diameter 2–4mm, 5–9mm, or ≥10mm, respectively). The number of ovulations recorded after each scanning was defined as the change in the number of large- and medium-sized follicles observed since the previous scanning. Data were analyzed using ANOVA. Results are presented in Table 1. There were two patterns of ovulations: one was a concentrated pattern of ovulations (ovulatory period &lt;10h); the other was a prolonged pattern of ovulations (ovulatory period &gt;10h). In cows with a high superovulatory response (≥14 ovulations), the onset of ovulation was earlier (P&lt;0.05) and the duration of the ovulatory period was longer (P&lt;0.05) than in cows with lower (≤8 ovulations) responses. In conclusion, concentrated and prolonged ovulation patterns were seen in dairy cows superstimulated after synchronization of the follicle wave with a CIDR and EB. In cows with a large number of follicles, the onset of ovulation tended to be earlier and the duration of the ovulatory period longer than in cows with fewer follicles. Table 1 The onset and duration of ovulation in dairy cows superstimulated following synchronization of the follicle wave with a CIDR and EB

Association of CYP2A6 deletion polymorphism with smoking habit and development of pulmonary emphysema

BACKGROUND

Nicotine is responsible for smoking dependence and is mainly metabolised by CYP2A6. Several types of genetic polymorphism of CYP2A6 have been reported, but their relation to smoking habit and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) phenotypes has not been fully clarified.

METHODS

203 current or ex-smokers (lifelong cigarette consumption (CC) >/=10 pack years) with subclinical and established COPD phenotypes were clinically evaluated and pulmonary function tests and a chest CT scan were performed (smoker group). The non-smoker group consisted of 123 healthy volunteers. CYP2A6 genotypes were determined in both groups.

RESULTS

The percentage of subjects with a CYP2A6del allele (genotype D) was lower in heavy smokers (20.5%, n=88, CC >/=60 pack years) than in light smokers (37.4%, n=115, CC 10-59 pack years, chi(2)=6.8, p=0.01) or non-smokers (36.1%, n=122, chi(2)=6.0, p=0.01); lower in ex-smokers (20.7%, n=111) than in current smokers (41.3%, n=92, chi(2)=10.1, p<0.01); and lower in smokers with a high LAA (low attenuation area) score on the chest CT scan (18.4%, n=76, LAA >/=8.0) than in those with a low LAA score (37.0%, n=127, LAA <8.0, chi(2)=7.8, p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Subjects with the CYP2A6del allele tend not to be heavy habitual smokers but can be light habitual smokers. The CYP2A6del polymorphism may inhibit smokers from giving up smoking, but appears to function as a protective factor against the development of pulmonary emphysema independent of smoking habit.

Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 expression on human corneal epithelial outgrowth from limbal explant in culture

AIM

To investigate the relation between intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 expression and cellular dynamics occurring concomitantly with epithelial cell movement.

METHODS

Outgrowing epithelial sheets of human corneal epithelial (HCE) cells from cultured limbal explants were examined by immunoperoxidase staining with anti-ICAM-1 monoclonal antibody. An adhesion assay was performed using the epithelial sheets of HCE cells and an Epstein-Barr virus (EVB) infected B cell lymphoma cell line (EVB(+)BJAB) expressing CD11a/CD18, a counter-receptor of ICAM-1. Also, the effect of calphostin C, a specific protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor, on ICAM-1 expression on the outgrowing epithelial sheets of HCE cells was examined.

RESULTS

Strong positive staining for ICAM-1 was found predominantly on HCE cells in the marginal segment of the epithelial sheet, particularly on the cells at the leading edge. EBV(+)BJAB cells adhering to the HCE cells corresponded well to the area of ICAM-1 staining. Treatment of outgrowing epithelial sheets with calphostin C markedly decreased the ICAM-1 expression on the HCE cells.

CONCLUSION

ICAM-1 is actively expressed on HCE cells in the marginal segment of the outgrowing epithelial sheets where there is active movement mediated through a PKC dependent mechanism, suggesting the role of ICAM-1 in epithelial cell motility such as the spreading and migration of cells.

Effects of dipyridamole and aspirin on shear-induced platelet aggregation in whole blood and platelet-rich plasma

BACKGROUND

Shear-induced platelet aggregation (SIPA) is an important mechanism of thrombosis at arterial bifurcations or stenotic lesions.

METHODS

We investigated the in vitro effects of dipyridamole (DP) and acetylsalicyclic acid (ASA) on SIPA in whole blood and platelet-rich plasma (PRP).

RESULTS

In whole blood, DP 20 microM significantly inhibited SIPA, while DP 5 microM or ASA 5 or 20 microM did not. SIPA in whole blood was, however, significantly inhibited by the combination of 5 or 20 microM of DP and ASA. SIPA in PRP was not inhibited by any concentration of DP or ASA, alone or in combination.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that DP has an effect on red blood cells and that ASA enhances the inhibitory effect of DP on SIPA in whole blood. These effects may be related to the additive effect of combination therapy with DP and ASA on stroke prevention.

Zolmitriptan is effective and well tolerated in Japanese patients with migraine: a dose-response study

This phase II study investigated the efficacy, tolerability and dose-response relationship of oral zolmitriptan in the treatment of a single migraine attack in Japanese patients. A bridging analysis then assessed the validity of extrapolating western clinical data to these Japanese patients. In this multicentre, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, patients received a single dose of placebo or zolmitriptan 1, 2.5 or 5 mg. The primary endpoints were 2-h headache response and the tolerability of zolmitriptan. A statistically significant dose-response relationship was observed for the 2-h headache response (P=0.003). The 2.5 mg group had significantly greater 2-h headache response than the placebo group (P=0.032). The adverse event profile was similar to that reported in western patients, and no adverse events unique to the Japanese population were observed. The bridging analysis report confirmed similar efficacy and tolerability of zolmitriptan in Japanese and western populations. In the Japanese patients, the estimated response rates were 34.3%, 45.2%, 57.7% and 66.2% for placebo, and zolmitriptan 1, 2.5 and 5 mg, respectively, while in the western population the corresponding rates were 39.9%, 49.6%, 61.2% and 71.7%. Zolmitriptan is effective and well tolerated in the acute treatment of migraine in Japanese patients. The optimal dose was 2.5 mg, although the 5 mg dose may provide further benefit for some patients. The bridging analysis supports extrapolation of data from western to Japanese patients.

[Glycyrrhizinic Acid Reference Standard (Control 001) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of glycyrrhizinic acid was examined for preparation of the "Glycyrrhizinic Acid Reference Standard". The analytical data obtained were: UV spectrum: lambda max, 251 nm; and specific absorbance (E1ca1%) in ethanol at 251 nm, 146; IR spectrum, specific absorptions at 1714, 1655, 1215, and 1170 cm-1; and the spectrum of raw material was consistent with that of Standard (Control 991). Also, thin-layer chromatography, no impurity was detected; high-performance liquid chromatography, several impurities were detected. The amount of each impurity was estimated at less than 0.2% and total amount of impurities was less than 0.4%. Based on the above results, the candidate material was authorized as the Glycyrrhizinic Acid Reference Standard (Control 001) of the National Institute of Health Sciences.

[Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate Reference Standard (Control 001) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of betamethasone sodium phosphate was examined for the preparation of the "Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate Reference Standard (Control 001)". The analytical data obtained were: melting point, 207.2 degrees C; pH, 8.1; optical rotation, [alpha]D20 = +104.4 degrees; UV spectrum, lambda max of 242 nm and specific absorbance in water at 242 nm = 272.9; IR spectrum, specific absorptions at 3386.9, 1721.7, 1663.3, 1620.4, 1605.0, 1094.3, 985.8, 889.8 cm-1; free phosphoric acid, 0.3%; thin-layer chromatography, one impurity was detected until 200 micrograms; high-performance liquid chromatography, total amount of impurities estimated to be less than 0.5%; water, 9.2%. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate Reference Standard (Control 001) of the National Institute of Health Sciences.

[Ergocalciferol Reference Standard (Control 001) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of ergocalciferol was examined for the preparation of "Ergocalciferol Reference Standard (Control 001)". Analytical data obtained were: melting point, 114.8 degrees C; UV and infrared spectra, the same as those of JP Ergocalciferol Reference Standard (Control 971); specific absorbance, E1ca1% = 471(265 nm); optical rotation, [alpha]D20 = +102.4 degrees; thin-layer chromatography, no impurities were detected until 100 micrograms; high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), total amount of impurities estimated to be less than 0.1%. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Japanese Pharmacopoeia Ergocalciferol Reference Standard (Control 001).

[Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate Reference Standard (Control 001) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material for dexamethasone sodium phosphate was examined for the preparation of the "Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate Reference Standard (Control 001)". The analytical data obtained were: pH, 8.0; optical rotation, [alpha]D20 = +79.6 degrees; UV spectrum, lambda max of 242 nm and specific absorbance in water at 242 nm = 313.6; IR spectrum, same as that of the Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate Reference Standard (Control 893); free phosphoric acid, 0.06%; free dexamethasone, 0.07%; thin-layer chromatography, no impurities were detected until 100 micrograms; high-performance liquid chromatography, total amount of impurities estimated to be less than 0.2%; residual solvent, 4.3% (ethanol); water, 7.3%. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate Reference Standard (Control 001) of the National Institute of Health Sciences.

[Alprostadil Reference Standard (Control 001) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of Alprostadil was examined for the preparation of "Alprostadil Reference Standard (Control 001)". Analytical data obtained were: IR spectrum, same as that of the Alprostadil Reference Standard (Control 923); thin-layer chromatography, no impurities were detected until 20 micrograms; high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), total amount of impurities estimated to be less than 0.2%. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Japanese Pharmacopoeia Alprostadil Reference Standard (Control 001).

[Hydrocortisone Sodium Phosphate Reference Standard (Control 001) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of hydrocortisone sodium phosphate was examined for the preparation of the "Hydrocortisone Sodium Phosphate Reference Standard (Control 001)". The analytical data obtained were: pH, 8.3: optical rotation, [alpha]D20 = +126.2 degrees; UV spectrum, lambda max of 248 nm and specific absorbance in water at 248 nm = 338.6; IR spectrum, same as that of the Hydrocortisone Sodium Phosphate Reference Standard (Control 891); free phosphoric acid, 0.2%; free hydrocortisone, 0.01%; thin-layer chromatography, no impurity was detected until 200 micrograms; high-performance liquid chromatography, total amount of impurities estimated to be less than 0.2%; residual solvent, 0.0% (acetone) and 0.02% (ethanol); loss on drying, 1.5%. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Hydrocortisone Sodium Phosphate Reference Standard (Control 001) of the National Institute of Health Sciences.

[Cholecalciferol Reference Standard (Control 001) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of cholecalciferol was examined for the preparation of "Cholecalciferol Reference Standard (Control 001)". Analytical data obtained were: melting point, 83.2 degrees C; UV and infrared spectra, the same as those of JP Cholecalciferol Reference Standard (Control 971), respectively; specific absorbance at 265 nm, E1ca1% = 478; optical rotation, [alpha]D20 = +108.6 degrees; thin-layer chromatography, no impurities were detected until 100 micrograms; high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), total amount of impurities estimated to be less than 0.05%. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Japanese Pharmacopoeia Cholecalciferol Reference Standard (Control 001).

[Beclometasone Dipropionate Reference Standard (Control 011) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of beclometasone dipropionate was examined for the preparation of the "Beclometasone Dipropionate Reference Standard (Control 011)". The analytical data obtained were: melting point, 208.8 degrees C; optical rotation, [alpha]D20 = +91.7 degrees; IR spectrum, same as that of the Beclometasone Dipropionate Reference Standard (Control 865); thin-layer chromatography, one impurity was detected until 40 micrograms; high-performance liquid chromatography, total amount of impurities estimated to be less than 0.5%; loss on drying, 0.6%. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Beclometasone Dipropionate Reference Standard (Control 011) of the National Institute of Health Sciences.

[Berberine Hydrochloride Reference Standard (Control 001) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of Berberine Hydrochloride was examined for preparation of the "Berberine Hydrochloride Reference Standard". The analytical data obtained were: UV spectrum: lambda max, 420, 345, 263 and 228 nm and specific absorbance (E1ca1%) in ethanol at each lambda max, 155, 724, 796 and 820, respectively; IR spectrum, specific absorptions at 2844, 1635, 1569, and 1506 cm-1; and the spectrum of raw material was consistent with that of Standard (Control 941). Also, thin-layer chromatography, an impurity was detected; high-performance liquid chromatography, several impurities were detected. The amount of each impurity was estimated at less than 0.1% and the total amount of impurities was less than 0.2%. Based on the above results, the candidate material was authorized as the Berberine Hydrochloride Reference Standard (Control 001) of the National Institute of Health Sciences.

Experimental Helicobacter pylori gastric infection in miniature pigs

An experimental Helicobacter pylori infection in miniature pigs was developed and investigated. Eighteen miniature pigs were inoculated with an H. pylori strain that has high virulence in mice at c. 5 x 10(10) cfu. H. pylori infection in miniature pigs was achieved by the administration of agar 1% in brucella broth with fetal bovine serum 10% just before inoculation. The bacterial colonisation and distribution were analysed by mapping of viable cell counts in the stomach in pigs of three different ages. The mapping assay was achieved on post-infection day 3 for the 5-day-old and 2-week-old pigs, and between days 41 and 43 for 3-month-old pigs. The highest cell counts were observed in 5-day-old pigs, which averaged 4.9 x 10(6) cfu/g of mucosa (n = 4). The bacteria were colonised mainly in the cardiac and fundus gland region in the 5-day-old and 2-week-old pigs, whereas the colonisation sites did not depend on the region in the 3-month-old pigs. Biopsy assay of the antral mucosa of a 3-month-old pig after H. pylori infection showed that this infection persisted for >22 months. Serum antibody against H. pylori was detected in the infected pigs but not in the uninfected animal. Immunostaining demonstrated the presence of bacteria on the epithelial surface of the infected pigs. A microscopic finding common to all the infected pigs, focal gastritis with infiltration of lymphocytes detected on the lesser curvature of the stomach, resembled the microscopic appearance in H. pylori-infected human patients. These results suggest that miniature pigs might be a suitable model for studying H. pylori infection.

[Tocopherol Acetate Reference Standard (Control 001) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of tocopherol acetate was examined for the preparation of the "Tocopherol Acetate Reference Standard (Control 001)". Analytical data obtained were: IR spectrum, same as that of the Tocopherol Acetate Reference Standard (Control 974); specific absorbance, E/cm% (284 nm) = 43.7; thin-layer chromatography, no impurities were detected until 50 micrograms of the loaded raw material; high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), total amount of impurities estimated to be less than 0.6%; assay by HPLC, 101.7%. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Japanese Pharmacopoeia Reference Standard (Control 001).

[Thiamine Hydrochloride Solution Reference Standard (Control 991) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of thiamine hydrochloride solution was examined for preparation of the "Thiamine Hydrochloride Solution Reference Standard (Control 991)". The analytical data obtained were: assay by HPLC, 101.0%; spectrophotometric assay, 100.4%. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Thiamine Hydrochloride Solution Reference Standard (Control 991) of the National Institute of Health Sciences.

[Heparin Sodium Reference Standard (Control 991) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The National Institute of Health Sciences Reference Standard for Heparin Sodium (Control 991) was prepared. The potency of heparin sodium for the candidate reference standard was assayed against "Heparin Sodium Reference Standard (Control 871)" by JP Method in collaboration with 4 laboratories, and estimated as 1,453 +/- 25 units per ampoule. The filling amounts of heparin sodium in ampoule was estimated as 7.46 +/- 0.15 mg per ampoule, and the precision of filling into ampoule was about 2.0% as C.V. Based on the above results, the candidate was defined as 1450 units per ampoule, and was authorized as the Heparin Sodium Reference Standard (Control 991) of the National Institute of Health Sciences.

[Tocopherol Reference Standard (Control 001) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of tocopherol was tested for the preparation of "Tocopherol Reference Standard (Control 991)". Analytical data obtained were: IR spectrum, same as the Tocopherol Reference Standard (Control 941); specific absorbance, E/cm% (292 nm) = 72.9; thin-layer chromatography, no impurities were detected until 50.0 micrograms; high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), trace amounts of five impurities were detected and the total amount was estimated to be less than 1.4%; assay by HPLC, 99.9%. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Japanese Pharmacopoeia Standard (Control 991).

[Prednisolone Sodium Phosphate Reference Standard (Control 001) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material for prednisolone sodium phosphate was examined for the preparation of the "Prednisolone Sodium Phosphate Reference Standard (Control 001)". The analytical data obtained were: pH, 7.9; optical rotation, [alpha]D20 = +98.0 degrees; UV spectrum, lambda max of 248 nm and specific absorbance in ethanol at 248 nm = 306.7; IR spectrum, same as that of the Prednisolone Sodium Phosphate Reference Standard (Control 892); thin-layer chromatography, five impurities were detected at 200 micrograms; high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), total amount of impurities estimated to be less than 3.7%; residual solvent, 0.0% (ethanol) and 0.0% (hexane); loss on drying, 2.7%. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Prednisolone Sodium Phosphate Reference Standard (Control 001) of the National Institute of Health Sciences.

Ultrastructural study of Betz cells in the primary motor cortex of the human brain

The ultrastructure of Betz cells in the 5th layer of the primary motor cortex of 17 neurologically and psychiatrically normal control individuals was studied. Normal-appearing Betz cells showed a wide range of features including novel electron-dense inclusion bodies (Bunina-like bodies) resembling Bunina bodies characteristic of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), accumulations of neurofilaments (10 nm in diameter), bundles of filaments (20-25 nm in diameter) thicker than neurofilaments, lamellar structures, lamellar bodies and structures similar to Hirano bodies. Among these 'abnormal' features, the presence of Bunina-like bodies may be an age-related nonspecific degenerative change, since they appeared more frequently in elderly individuals. The presence of these abnormal features--particularly the Bunina-like bodies--in the Betz cells of normal human brains must be considered in the assessment of the pathognomonic significance of such structures in ALS and other neurological diseases that affect the motor cortex.

[Strategy for circulatory disturbance]

A meta-analysis by the Cochrane Stroke Group (CSG) showed that thrombolytic therapy increased deaths as well as symptomatic and fatal intracranial hemorrhage within the first seven to 10 days and at final follow-up, although these risks are offset by a reduction in disability in survivors, so that there is overall a significant net reduction in the proportion of patients dead or dependent. Trials testing intravenous (i.v.) tPA suggest that it may be associated with less hazard and more benefit. A recent trial demonstrated that intra-arterial pro-urokinase improved long-term outcome in patients with M 1 or M 2 occlusion within 6 hours of onset. Trials of the third generation of thrombolytic agents are ongoing in patients with acute ischemic stroke. The latest CSG's meta-analysis showed that immediate anticoagulant therapy in patients with acute ischemic stroke was not associated with net short or long-term benefit because there was no evidence that anticoagulant therapy reduced deaths or non-fatal stroke during treatment or patients dead or dependent at the end of follow-up. However, an i.v. low-molecular-weight heparinoid showed a trend toward improving long-term outcome in subgroup of patients with atherothrombotic stroke. The thrombin inhibitor argatroban was proven to be comparable to the thromboxane A2 synthetase inhibitor ozagrel in the effect on the outcome at one month in patients with atherothrombotic stroke within 48 hours of onset in Japan, and a trial of the agent is ongoing in patients with ischemic stroke within 12 hours of onset in the United States. Two large trials of aspirin in patients with ischemic stroke within 48 hours of onset indicated that aspirin had a modest effect on reducing patients dead or dependent at the end of follow-up. An international trial of abciximab, a monoclonal antibody directed against platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa, is ongoing in patients with ischemic stroke within 6 hours of onset.

Induction of CCR7 expression in thymocytes requires both ERK signal and Ca(2+) signal

CC chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7) expression is crucial for thymocyte trafficking across the corticomedullary junction in the thymus and for lymph node homing of naive T cells. However, the induction mechanism of CCR7 expression is vastly unknown. In isolated CD4+CD8+CCR7-thymocytes, a moderate 20-h pulse stimulation with a combination of the calcium ionophore ionomycin and the protein kinase C activator phorbol myristate acetate induced CCR7 expression and CD8 downregulation. Similar changes were induced in a CD4+CD8+CCR7- T cell line upon stimulation with the same combination of reagents, but not with either one alone. These changes were inhibited by U0126, an inhibitor of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinase (ERKK/MEK). The transfectants expressing a constitutively active form of the MEK kinase Raf-1 became CD4+CD8+CCR7+ upon stimulation with ionomycin alone. Thus, Raf-1-mediated signals and Ca(2+)-dependent signals are essential to induce CCR7 expression in CD4+CD8+ T cells and thymocytes as well as their differentiation.

Measurement of platelet fibrinogen binding and p-selectin expression by flow cytometry in patients with cerebral infarction

We determined the percentages of fibrinogen-bound and P-selectin-expressed platelets in whole blood using flow cytometry in 254 patients with various cerebral infarction subtypes, as well as in 30 age-matched controls. Patients with atherothrombotic stroke showed significant increases in both fibrinogen-bound and P-selectin-expressed platelets. Patients with lacunar stroke also showed significant increases in both of them, but the percentage of P-selectin expression was significantly lower than that in atherothrombotic stroke. Patients with cardioembolic stroke showed a significant increase in P-selectin-expressed platelets without any increase in fibrinogen-bound platelets. Platelet fibrinogen binding and P-selectin expression were significantly lower in patients treated with ticlopidine but not with aspirin than in those not treated with any antiplatelet agent, and were lowest in those treated with both ticlopidine and aspirin. Our findings suggest that expression of adhesion molecules on platelet membrane surface differs among the patients with subtypes of ischemic stroke and differs among the types of antiplatelet regimens.

[Evaluation of thiazolidinedione derivative drugs for safety]

The first thiazolidinedione derivative drug for diabetes, troglitazone, was found to cause fatal hepatotoxicity, although it was judged as safe during the clinical trial. Subsequently, pioglitazone has been clinically used both in Japan and U.S. and has had no fatal cases but caused heart failure. Therefore, careful follow up observation is necessary in these drugs by checking liver function tests and cardiac function.

Release property of progesterone from a mixed-base suppository consisting of Witepsol W35 and Witepsol E85

The mechanism of drug release from progesterone suppositories that consist of two types of hard fat (Witepsol W35 and Witepsol E85) was investigated. The strength, the thermodynamic characteristics, the surface structures, the drug release property, methylene blue penetration into suppositories, and change of surface structure after the dissolution test were employed for detecting characteristics of progesterone suppositories. The formulation with a mixing ratio of Witepsol W35 and Witepsol E85 at a 1:1 ratio showed the maximum strength value. The peak temperature of the suppositories showed a tendency to increase with increases in the ratio of Witepsol E85. The maximum height of the profiles measured with laser microscopy, from 20.8 microm to 29.2 microm, reached a maximum after 3 h of the dissolution test. When the suppositories were immersed in pH 7.4 phosphate buffer containing 0.5% methylene blue at 37 degrees C, the penetrating area increased with time. The weight of the suppositories also increased with time. According to these findings, it was suggested that the release of drug from a mixed type of suppository containing progesterone was via the matrix and pores.

The effect of stress on toxicant-dependent cytochrome p450 enzyme responses in the Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus)

In the present study we investigated the effect of stress and cortisol on cytochrome P450 (CYP) expression in Arctic charr exposed to benzo[a]pyrene (BaP). Expression of hepatic CYP1A and CYP3A was monitored 8 d after a single oral dose of BaP (10 mg/kg fish) and compared to that in unexposed fish. During this period the fish were subjected to one of the following stress regimes: no stress, no stress and cortisol implantation, 10 min of daily handling and confinement stress, and confinement stress during the last 6 h before sampling. In BaP-exposed fish daily stress resulted in significantly lower (53%) CYP1A protein levels as compared to those in unstressed fish. For CYP1A catalytic activity (measured as 7-ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase [EROD] activity), the suppressive response to stress was less pronounced. These results contrast to previous findings of a potentiation by corticosteroids on xenobiotic-dependent CYP1A induction in vitro in cultured fish hepatic cells. No effects of high cortisol levels or BaP were found on the steroid-metabolizing CYP3A enzyme levels. The lack of any alterations in the CYP3A protein level indicates that CYP3A expression is not inducible by cortisol in the Arctic charr under the conditions used here. The conclusion was made that short-term stress associated with sampling (i.e., 6 h of confinement stress before sampling) of wild charr does not compromise the EROD activity as a reliable biomarker.

Protocol to prevent shoulder-hand syndrome after stroke

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effectiveness of a protocol designed to restrict passive movement of affected upper extremity on the incidence of shoulder-hand syndrome (SHS) after stroke.

DESIGN

Before-and-after trial: follow-up duration of subject group and historical control group 231.6 and 257.2 days, respectively.

SETTING

Rehabilitation medicine department in a hospital in Japan.

PARTICIPANTS

SUBJECTS

81 stroke patients treated with the protocol from 1994 to 1996 who were followed for at least 4 months from the onset of stroke; controls: 71 stroke patients treated without the protocol from 1991 to 1994 who were followed for same length of time.

INTERVENTION

Use of a set protocol for controlled passive movement by trained therapists and restriction of passive movement by the patients for 4 months after stroke. The SHS criterion used to detect early signs of SHS has not yet been validated. Corticosteroids were given to all subjects diagnosed with SHS.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Swelling index, SHS diagnostic criteria applied in physical exam, Brunnstrom stage, and sensory disturbance evaluations.

RESULT

The incidence of SHS in the subject group was 18.5% (n = 15), whereas the incidence of SHS in the control group was 32.4% (n = 23). The difference between the 2 groups was statistically significant (chi(2) = 3.885, p < .05).

CONCLUSION

The protocol helped to prevent development of SHS.

Paroxysmal compulsion to handle keys in a computer operator due to meningioma in the left supplementary motor area

We describe the case of a computer operator who experienced paroxysmal attacks several times in which she felt a compulsion to handle keys with her right hand or actually her right hand moved involuntarily in a key-handling rhythm. Cranial CT and MRI revealed a mass lesion in the left medial aspect of the frontal lobe (supplementary motor area). After the removal of this tumor (meningioma), there were no more paroxysmal attacks. We suggest that voluntary movements controlled by the supplementary motor area were deranged by seizures provoked by the tumor. This case is attractive in relation to obsessive-compulsive disorder.