Increased prevalence of Kaposi΄s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus in the Kaposi΄s sarcoma-endemic area of western Kenya in 1981-2000

Kaposi΄s sarcoma (KS) had been endemic in Africa before the appearance of human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV) in 1985. Incidence of African KS has increased over the time and the risk of contracting KS become greater in HIV-positive as opposed to HIV-negative individuals. KS specimens were collected in 1981-2000 from 228 surgical cases originating from a KS-endemic area of Western Kenya and examined for Kaposi΄s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) by an immunoperoxidase assay. The results showed that the specimens from 1981-1985 (before the HIV epidemic) were KSHV-positive in 10.3% in contrast to the KSHV positivity of 50.1-63.5% in 1986-2000. The linear increase of KSHV positivity in 1981-2000 was statistically significant. The most plausible explanation for the increased prevalence of KSHV in KS cases is that the endemic KS has changed to the epidemic one.

Surfactant protein C G100S mutation causes familial pulmonary fibrosis in Japanese kindred

Several mutations in the surfactant protein C (SP-C) gene (SFTPC) have been reported as causing familial pulmonary fibrosis (FPF). However, the genetic background and clinical features of FPF are still not fully understood. We identified one Japanese kindred, in which at least six individuals over three generations were diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis. We examined the patients radiologically and histopathologically and sequenced their SFTPC and ABCA3 genes. We also established a cell line stably expressing the mutant gene. All the patients had similar radiological and histopathological characteristics. Their histopathological pattern was that of usual interstitial pneumonia, showing numerous fibroblastic foci even in areas without abnormal radiological findings on chest high-resolution computed tomography. No child had respiratory symptoms in the kindred. Sequencing of SFTPC showed a novel heterozygous mutation, c.298G>A (G100S), in the BRICHOS domain of proSP-C, which co-segregated with the disease. However, in the ABCA3 gene, no mutation was found. In vitro expression of the mutant gene revealed that several endoplasmic reticulum stress-related proteins were strongly expressed. The mutation increases endoplasmic reticulum stress and induces apoptotic cell death compared with wild-type SP-C in alveolar type II cells, supporting the significance of this mutation in the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis.

Diffuse dermal angiomatosis

Diffuse dermal angiomatosis (DDA) is characterized clinically by painful erythematous lesions with ulcers and histologically by a benign, diffuse, and self-limited proliferation of tiny blood vessels in the superficial layers of the reticular dermis. Here we describe a case of DDA with leg ulcer. Erythematous lesions presented around the ulcer and angiogram revealed an occlusion of the superficial femoral artery. The erythematous lesions disappeared after revascularization. Although DDA is extremely rare, early correction of the ischemia in the peripheral artery should be taken into consideration.

Relationships between mite allergen levels, mold concentrations, and sick building syndrome symptoms in newly built dwellings in Japan

This study investigated the possible relationships between exposures to mite allergen and airborne fungi with sick building syndrome (SBS) symptoms for residents living in newly built dwellings. We randomly sampled 5709 newly built dwellings in six prefectures from northern to southern Japan. A total of 1479 residents in 425 households participated in the study by completing questionnaire surveys and agreeing to environmental monitoring for mite allergen (Der 1), airborne fungi, aldehydes, and volatile organic compounds. Stepwise logistic regression analyses adjusted for confounders were used to obtain odds ratios (OR) of mite allergen and fungi for SBS symptoms. Der 1 had a significantly high OR for nose symptoms. Rhodotorula had a significantly high OR for any symptoms, and Aspergillus had significantly high OR for eye symptoms. However, the total colony-forming units had a significantly low OR for throat and respiratory symptoms. Eurotium had a significantly low OR for skin symptoms. In conclusion, dust-mite allergen levels and indoor airborne Rhodotorula and Aspergillus concentrations may result in SBS symptoms in newly built dwellings.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

Various factors can cause sick building syndrome symptoms. This study focused on biologic factors such as dust-mite allergen and airborne fungi in newly built dwellings in Japan. Dust-mite allergen levels were significantly associated with higher rates of nose symptoms, airborne Rhodotorula concentrations were significantly associated with higher rates of any symptoms, and Aspergillus concentrations were significantly associated with higher rates of eye symptoms. Measures should be taken to reduce mite allergen levels and fungal concentrations in these dwellings.

Effects of Proteolytic Enzyme Inhibitors as Absorption Enhancers on the Transdermal Iontophoretic Delivery of Calcitonin in Rats

The effects of proteolytic enzyme inhibitors, aprotinin, soybean trypsin inhibitor and camostat mesilate as absorption enhancers on the transdermal iontophoretic delivery of salmon calcitonin (SCT) have been examined in rats. The dermal absorption of SCT was evaluated with hypocalcaemic effect. Application of SCT (12·5 int. units/rat) onto abdominal skin did not produce any hypocalcaemic effect. This produced a small hypocalcaemic effect with cationic iontophoresis (drug phase, anode; reference phase, cathode; high frequency pulses of 1 V at 10 kHz, 2h). Furthermore, camostat mesilate (1 Mm) and aprotinin (106 int. units mL−1) enhanced the hypocalcaemic effects on the application of SCT with iontophoresis. These hypocalcaemic effects were highest with the pH 4·0 preparation compared with those of the pH 5·5, pH 7·0 and pH 8·0 preparations. However, soybean trypsin inhibitor did not change the hypocalcaemic effects. This was because the soybean trypsin inhibitor is a relatively high molecular weight peptide (mol. wt 8000) and an anion at used pH, and therefore was not absorbed through rat skins with cation iontophoresis.

Phase II study of segmental transcatheter arterial chemoembolization using ethiodized oil mixed with cisplatin powder for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma

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Background: Conventional transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) using with ethiodized oil mixed with epirubicin or doxorubicin hydrochloride mainly has been widely adapted for intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, cisplatin has stronger effect for HCC than epirubicin and in the recent years cisplatin powder was commercially available in Japan and then we can use cisplatin powder mixed with ethiodized oil for HCC. We conducted a phase II study to assess the safety and efficacy of segmental or subsegmental (Seg/Subseg) TACE using a suspension of cisplatin powder mixed with ethiodized oil for unresectable HCC.

Methods: Twenty patients with single-nodule HCC that was not indicated for surgical treatment or local ablation therapy were enrolled in this study. Seg/Subseg-TACE was performed by using a 2-F tip microcatheter at a distal portion of the subsegmental artery supplying the tumor. Subsequently, the feeding artery was embolized with gelatin sponge particles. The suspension was prepared by mixing 100 mg of cisplatin powder with 10 ml of ethiodized oil. Primary endpoint of this phase II trial was 2-year local disease free survival (DFS); secondary endpoints evaluated were the safety, time to progression (TTP), and 2-year overall survival (OS) rate.

Results: A total of 20 patients (male 15, female 5; mean age 72.4, range 62-83; Child Pugh's A 20) were treated single nodule HCC with Seg/subseg TACE. Median tumor size was 2.6cm (range1.2-5.0cm). The 2-year local DFS was 63.2 %. The following grade 3 or 4 toxicities were observed: platelets reduction 5%, aspartate transaminase elevation 55%, alanine transaminase elevation 40% and alkaline phosphatase elevation 5%. The median TTP was 17.6 months (95%CI, 5.25 to 29.9) and the 2-year OS rate was 94.7%.

Conclusions: This phase II study demonstrates that segmental or subsegmental transcatheter arterial chemoembolization using a suspension of cisplatin powder mixed with ethiodized oil is well tolerable, and may achieve significant local tumor control and prolong survival. Further clinical trials are warranted.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Intramammary challenge of lipopolysaccharide stimulates secretion of lingual antimicrobial peptide into milk of dairy cows

Lingual antimicrobial peptide (LAP) belongs to the beta-defensin family in cattle and is found in bovine milk. However, it is unclear whether LAP is involved in the early immune response to mammary infection. The aim of the study was to investigate the changes of LAP concentration in milk after intramammary challenge with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), the gram-negative bacteria cell membrane component, in dairy cows. Milk was collected before and after LPS or phosphate-buffered saline (control) challenge every hour for 12 h on d 0 and twice daily from d 1 to 7. Somatic cell count (SCC), LAP concentration, and lactoperoxidase (LPO) activity in the milk were measured. Somatic cell count started to increase at 2 h postchallenge and remained high until d 5 (694 +/- 187 x 10(3 )to >1,000 +/- 0 x 10(3) cells/mL at d 0; >1,000 +/- 0 x 10(3) cells/mL at d 1 to 3; 684 +/- 194 x 10(3 )to 829 +/- 108 x 10(3 )cells/mL at d 4; 527 +/- 197 x 10(3 )to 656 +/- 145 x 10(3 )cells/mL at d 5). Somatic cell count increased in the control cows, although the levels were lower compared with those in the LPS challenge group. The LAP concentration in milk increased significantly at 2 h post-LPS-challenge and was maintained at high levels until d 2 (8.6 +/- 0.6 to 17.5 +/- 2.3 nM). In the control cow infused with phosphate-buffered saline, there was no increase of LAP concentration in milk (5.1 +/- 0.6 to 7.2 +/- 0.8 nM). Increase of LPO activity in the milk was observed at 6 h after LPS challenge and continued until d 3 (4.7 +/- 0.3 to 9.4 +/- 1.1 U). No increase of LPO activity was observed in the milk of control cows. The increase and subsequent decrease in LAP concentration after LPS challenge occurred earlier than those of LPO activity. In multiparous cows with LPS infusion, there was a significantly negative relationship between the days leading to the basal levels in LAP concentration and LPO activity (r = -0.75). These results suggest that LPS induces secretion of LAP into milk within hours and that LPO may have a synergistic antimicrobial function with LAP in mammary glands of dairy cows.

Association of ALDH2 genotypes with periodontitis progression

The progression of periodontitis may be affected by ALDH2 genotypes with respect to the oxidation of acetaldehyde to acetate, which leads to the accumulation of acetaldehyde in plasma and potential toxic effects. We examined the prospective association of ALDH2 genotypes in terms of alcohol sensitivity between alcohol consumption and periodontal disease progression. In 2003, 224 of 256 (87.5%) individuals examined at baseline (1999) completed probing pocket depth measurements for the evaluation of periodontitis progression. Missing data on self-reported questionnaires and blood samples were excluded; therefore, 183 samples were analyzed. Individuals who consumed > or = 33.0 g/day of alcohol exhibited high periodontal disease progression risk (OR = 3.54). ALDH2 *1/*2 individuals who consumed > or = 33 g/day of alcohol displayed a significant odds ratio (OR = 4.28) of periodontitis progression risk, in contrast to ALDH2 *1/*1 individuals. These results suggested that alcohol consumption as well as alcohol sensitivity may be a risk factor for periodontitis progression.

Two weeks of permanence in negatively-charged air conditions causes alteration of natural killer cell function

The effects of negatively-charged air conditions were analyzed as one of the approaches to improve health and quality of life. We previously reported that the use of a charcoal coating and application of an electric voltage yielded predominantly negatively-charged particles in an experimental room, and that 2.5 hours of living in these conditions caused a slight activation of the immune system (slight elevation of serum interleukin (IL)-2), regulated blood flow, and stabilized the autonomic nervous system when compared with control conditions (no dominance of negatively-charged particles). In this study, we expanded the previous study and placed 15 subjects in negatively-charged air conditions for two weeks during the night and analyzed various biological parameters. Although individual biological reactions differed from subject to subject, natural killer (NK) cell activity increased significantly following living in negatively-charged air conditions. Taken together, the results of the previous investigation and those of this study show that repeated elevation of IL-2 (although it immediately returned to the baseline level) causes chronic and recurrent stimulation to NK cells and results in the steady activation of NK cells. Negatively-charged air particles may be a good tool to improve health and quality of life.

Regional differences in residential environments and the association of dwellings and residential factors with the sick house syndrome: a nationwide cross-sectional questionnaire study in Japan

This study was conducted to clarify regional differences in residential factors and the association of those factors with dwellings having sick house syndrome (SHS) problems. The survey was conducted in six areas of northern and southern Japan. In terms of regional differences, dampness was not as severe in the dwellings in Sapporo as compared with that in areas in the south. SHS was defined using five categories of nasal, throat and respiratory, skin and general symptoms, which appeared frequently or not frequently and improved upon leaving the home. The dampness index was estimated by the sum of the presence of several indicators: condensation on the window panes and/or wall, visible mold growth, moldy odor, slow-drying wet towels in the bathroom, and water leakage. The dwellings where inhabitants showed any symptoms of SHS comprised 3.7% of all surveyed dwellings. We found significant associations between SHS and dampness index, odors, and stuffiness of the air. For dampness, the adjusted odds ratio (OR) increased with increased dampness index, adjusting for the age of the house, pets indoors, stuffiness of the air, and odors. These results showed an increased risk when several dampness indicators appeared simultaneously.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

To evaluate the associations of residential environments and Sick House Syndrome (SHS), this cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted on 2297 dwellings in six areas in Japan from 2003 to 2004. The dwellings where inhabitants showed any of nasal, throat and respiratory, skin and general symptoms comprised 3.7% of all surveyed dwellings, and an increased risk for SHS was found when several dampness indicators, 'condensation', 'visible mold growth', 'moldy odor', 'slow drying wet towels in the bathroom' and 'water leakage', appeared simultaneously.

Visiting a forest, but not a city, increases human natural killer activity and expression of anti-cancer proteins

We previously reported that a forest bathing trip enhanced human NK activity, number of NK cells, and intracellular anti-cancer proteins in lymphocytes. In the present study, we investigated how long the increased NK activity lasts and compared the effect of a forest bathing trip on NK activity with a trip to places in a city without forests. Twelve healthy male subjects, age 35-56 years, were selected with informed consent. The subjects experienced a three-day/two-night trip to forest fields and to a city, in which activity levels during both trips were matched. On day 1, subjects walked for two hours in the afternoon in a forest field; and on day 2, they walked for two hours in the morning and afternoon, respectively, in two different forest fields; and on day 3, the subjects finished the trip and returned to Tokyo after drawing blood samples and completing the questionnaire. Blood and urine were sampled on the second and third days during the trips, and on days 7 and 30 after the trip, and NK activity, numbers of NK and T cells, and granulysin, perforin, and granzymes A/B-expressing lymphocytes in the blood samples, and the concentration of adrenaline in urine were measured. Similar measurements were made before the trips on a normal working day as the control. Phytoncide concentrations in forest and city air were measured. The forest bathing trip significantly increased NK activity and the numbers of NK, perforin, granulysin, and granzyme A/B-expressing cells and significantly decreased the concentration of adrenaline in urine. The increased NK activity lasted for more than 7 days after the trip. In contrast, a city tourist visit did not increase NK activity, numbers of NK cells, nor the expression of selected intracellular anti-cancer proteins, and did not decrease the concentration of adrenaline in urine. Phytoncides, such as alpha-pinene and beta-pinene were detected in forest air, but almost not in city air. These findings indicate that a forest bathing trip increased NK activity, number of NK cells, and levels of intracellular anti-cancer proteins, and that this effect lasted at least 7 days after the trip. Phytoncides released from trees and decreased stress hormone may partially contribute to the increased NK activity.

Spermined dextran, a cationized polymer, as absorption enhancer for pulmonary application of peptide drugs

Sperminated dextrans (SD) having different average molecular weights (MWs; 10, 40 and 70 kDa) and numbers of amino groups were prepared as cationized polymers for use as absorption enhancers. The absorption enhancing effects on the pulmonary absorption of insulin in rats and the permeation of FITC-dextran (MW 4,400, FD4) through calu-3 cell (human airway epithelial cell) monolayers by SD were evaluated. SD significantly enhanced the pulmonary absorption of insulin SD and the permeation of FD4 through calu-3 cells. The enhancing effects on the absorption insulin and permeation of FD4 through calu-3 cells increased with an increase in the molecular weigh of SD over the range 10-70 kDa. SD may interact directly with the luminal surface of mucus membranes via an ion-ion interaction and then induce signals that open tight junctions resulting in intercellular permeation of water soluble drugs. SD may be useful as an absorption enhancer for pulmonary delivery of peptide and protein drugs.

A forest bathing trip increases human natural killer activity and expression of anti-cancer proteins in female subjects

We previously reported that forest bathing trips enhanced human NK activity, number of NK cells, and intracellular anti-cancer proteins in lymphocytes, and that the increased NK activity lasted for more than 7 days after the trip in male subjects. In the present study, we investigated the effect of forest bathing trip on human NK activity in female subjects. Thirteen healthy nurses, age 25-43 years, professional career 4-18 years, were selected with informed consent. The subjects experienced a three-day/two-night trip to forest fields. On day 1, the subjects walked for two hours in the afternoon in a forest field; on day 2, they walked for two hours each in the morning and afternoon in two different forest fields; and on day 3, the subjects finished the trip and returned to Tokyo after drawing blood and completing a questionnaire. Blood and urine were sampled on the second and third days during the trip, and on days 7 and 30 after the trip. NK activity, numbers of NK and T cells, and granulysin, perforin, and granzymes A/B-expressing lymphocytes in the blood samples, the concentrations of estradiol and progesterone in serum, and the concentrations of adrenaline and noradrenaline in urine were measured. Similar control measurements were made before the trip on a normal working day. The concentrations of phytoncides in the forests were measured. The forest bathing trip significantly increased NK activity and the numbers of NK, perforin, granulysin, and granzymes A/B-expressing cells and significantly decreased the percentage of T cells, and the concentrations of adrenaline and noradrenaline in urine. The increased NK activity lasted for more than 7 days after the trip. Phytoncides, such as alpha-pinene and beta-pinene were detected in forest air. These findings indicate that a forest bathing trip also increased NK activity, number of NK cells, and levels of intracellular anti-cancer proteins in female subjects, and that this effect lasted at least 7 days after the trip. Phytoncides released from trees and decreased stress hormone levels may partially contribute to the increased NK activity.

Forest bathing enhances human natural killer activity and expression of anti-cancer proteins

In order to explore the effect of forest bathing on human immune function, we investigated natural killer (NK) activity; the number of NK cells, and perforin, granzymes and granulysin-expression in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) during a visit to forest fields. Twelve healthy male subjects, age 37-55 years, were selected with informed consent from three large companies in Tokyo, Japan. The subjects experienced a three-day/two-night trip in three different forest fields. On the first day, subjects walked for two hours in the afternoon in a forest field; and on the second day, they walked for two hours in the morning and afternoon, respectively, in two different forest fields. Blood was sampled on the second and third days, and NK activity; proportions of NK, T cells, granulysin, perforin, and granzymes A/B-expressing cells in PBL were measured. Similar measurements were made before the trip on a normal working day as the control. Almost all of the subjects (11/12) showed higher NK activity after the trip (about 50 percent increased) compared with before. There are significant differences both before and after the trip and between days 1 and 2 in NK activity. The forest bathing trip also significantly increased the numbers of NK, perforin, granulysin, and granzymes A/B-expressing cells. Taken together, these findings indicate that a forest bathing trip can increase NK activity, and that this effect at least partially mediated by increasing the number of NK cells and by the induction of intracellular anti-cancer proteins.

Interaction of cancer cells with platelets mediated by Necl-5/poliovirus receptor enhances cancer cell metastasis to the lungs

Necl-5 is an immunoglobulin (Ig)-like molecule that was originally identified as a poliovirus receptor and is often upregulated in cancer cells. We recently found that it colocalizes with integrin alpha(v)beta(3) at the leading edges of moving cells and enhances growth factor-induced cell movement and proliferation. Upon cell-cell contact, Necl-5 is removed from the cell surface by its trans-interaction with the cell adhesion molecule nectin-3, resulting in reduced cell movement and proliferation. Here, we investigated the role of Necl-5 in the interaction of cancer cells with platelets. Necl-5 was upregulated in CT26 cells, a colon adenocarcinoma cell line. When CT26 cells were injected into the tail vein of mice, they were arrested in the pulmonary vessels by adhering to platelets and subsequently metastasized to the lungs. Overexpression of Necl-5 in CT26 cells enhanced this metastasis, while inhibition of the trans-interaction of Necl-5 with CD226 by an anti-Necl-5 monoclonal antibody reduced the metastasis. Depletion of platelets by treatment with a rabbit anti-mouse platelet serum reduced the Necl-5-enhanced metastasis in mice. Thus, the trans-interaction of upregulated Necl-5 in cancer cells with its counter-receptor in platelets, probably CD226, is critical for efficient metastasis of cancer cells to the lungs.

Measurement of salivary adiponectin levels

We designed a method for measuring salivary adiponectin. In 188 healthy males, salivary adiponectin levels were measured using a commercial enzyme immunoassay kit for plasma with minor modifications. Intra- and inter-assay coefficients of variation for salivary adiponectin ranged from 0.6 to 4.9 and 1.1 to 9.8%, respectively. Salivary adiponectin levels ranged from 0.37 to 6.42 ng/ml, exceeding the kit's detection limit. For the over-43 age group, there was a significant correlation between plasma and salivary adiponectin levels (p<0.000001). These findings suggest the possibilities of salivary adiponectin as a marker of increased risk of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus or cardiovascular disease.

The relationship of atopy, smoking, and sensitization to methyltetrahydrophthalic anhydride

We investigated the association of smoking, atopy and helper T (Th) cytokines with sensitization to methyltetrahydrophthalic anhydride (MTHPA) in occupationally exposed subjects. A population of 147 workers from two condenser plants using epoxy resin with MTHPA underwent a questionnaire survey and serologic investigation. Total and MTHPA-specific IgE levels were measured by the Pharmacia CAP system, and serum levels of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-13, and interferon-gamma (IFN-g) by enzyme immunoassay. The Pharmacia CAP-Phadiatop test, which detects serum IgE specific to most common aeroallergens, was also used. Ninety-six (65%) of the currently exposed workers had positive MTHPA-specific IgE. A significant difference was found in the frequency of positive specific IgE between atopic and non-atopic subjects (P<0.01), but not between smokers and non-smokers. As for smoking, the frequency of positive specific IgE was significantly (P<0.005) higher in smokers than that in non-smokers in non-atopic subjects. Multiple logistic regression analysis also confirmed significant contribution of atopy and smoking to the development of specific IgE (odds ration=3.2 and 10.5, respectively), suggesting that atopic subjects who became sensitized to P<0.01 may become sensitized to common aeroallergens. On the other hand, none of the Th cytokines contributed to the elevation of specific IgE levels. These results suggest that atopic subjects and non-atopic smokers are at increased rist of sensitization by P<0.01. However, to evaluate conclusively the effect of atopy on sensitization, further prospective studies are necessary.

Induction of mesenchymal cell phenotypes in lung epithelial cells by adenovirus E1A

Epithelial-mesenchymal transformation is now recognised as an important feature of tissue remodelling. The present report concerns the role of adenovirus infection in inducing this transformation in an animal model of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Guinea pig primary peripheral lung epithelial cells (PLECs) transfected with adenovirus E1A (E1A-PLECs) were compared to guinea pig normal lung fibroblasts (NLFs) transfected with E1A (E1A-NLFs). These cells were characterised by PCR, immunocytochemistry, electron microscopy, and Western and Northern blot analyses. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays were performed in order to examine nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB and activator protein (AP)-1 binding activities. E1A-PLECs and E1A-NLFs positive for E1A DNA, mRNA and protein expressed cytokeratin and vimentin but not smooth muscle alpha-actin. Both exhibited cuboidal morphology and junctional complexes, but did not contain lamellar bodies or express surfactant protein A, B or C mRNAs. These two cell types differed, however, in their NF-kappaB and AP-1 binding after lipopolysaccharide stimulation, possibly due to differences in the expression of the subunits that comprise these transcriptional complexes. E1A transfection results in the transformation of peripheral lung epithelial cells and normal lung fibroblasts to a phenotype intermediate between that of the two primary cells. It is postulated that this intermediate phenotype may play a major role in the remodelling of the airways in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease associated with persistence of adenovirus E1A DNA.

Web-mediated interspecific competition among spider mites

Some spider mites, such as Tetranychus spp. and Amphitetranychus spp., create complicated webs (CWs), whereas others, such as Panonychus spp., produce little webs (LWs). We verified whether interspecific competition occurred between CW and LW mites via habitat arrangement under laboratory conditions. The complicated webs produced by CW mites clearly inhibited juvenile development in LW mites, whereas there was no effect of LW mites on CW mites. In oviposition site choice tests, both CW and LW females preferred the lower surface of leaves to the upper surface. The preference of LW mites for the lower leaf surface, even in the presence of CW mite webs, suggests that the costs of amensalism are outweighed by the possible benefits, such as avoiding rain. These findings show that the shift in mite species composition from LW to CW mites can occur as a consequence of the interspecific association between spider mites via their webs, without pesticide applications or the presence of natural enemies.

Oral administration of pulverized Konjac glucomannan prevents the increase of plasma immunoglobulin E and immunoglobulin G levels induced by the injection of syngeneic keratinocyte extracts in BALB/c mice

BACKGROUND

Immunoglobulin (Ig) E plays a key role in the pathogenesis of atopic diseases, such as asthma, atopic dermatitis and allergic rhinitis. Oral administration of pulverized Konjac glucomannan (PKGM) has recently been demonstrated to prevent both plasma IgE elevation and developing dermatitis in NC/Nga mice, a model of atopic dermatitis.

OBJECTIVE

To clarify the direct effect of PKGM on the increase of plasma IgE, we employed the system of BALB/c mouse that increases IgE level without developing dermatitis in response to continuous injection of the extract of syngeneic keratinocytes, PAM 212 cells (PAM extract).

METHODS

Three weeks after the start of feeding with either control or PKGM diet, mice were injected subcutaneously with PAM extract bi-weekly for 10 weeks. The levels of plasma Igs were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay every 2 weeks after the injection. The levels of epsilon germline transcription and the amounts of mRNA for IL-4, IFN-gamma, GATA-3 and T bet gene in the spleen were evaluated by real-time RT-PCR at the end of the experiment.

RESULTS

On the one hand, PKGM prevented the increase of plasma IgE and IgG (IgG1, IgG2b) induced by PAM extract, and on the other hand, it enhanced the levels of plasma IgG3. However, it did not affect the level of plasma IgM. PKGM also reduced the levels of plasma ovalbumin (OVA)-specific IgE in OVA-sensitized mice. Moreover, PKGM attenuated the induction of epsilon germline transcription and expression levels of mRNA for IL-4, IFN-gamma and GATA-3 in the spleen of PAM extract-injected mice. PKGM also attenuated the induction of epsilon germline transcription and mRNA for IFN-gamma and T bet in the spleen of phosphate-buffered saline-injected control mice.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggested that oral administration of PKGM prevents the elevation of plasma IgE by suppressing IgE class switching in B cells and/or the commitment development of naive lymphocytes to both T-helper type 1 (Th1) and Th2.

Requirement of nectin, but not cadherin, for formation of claudin-based tight junctions in annexin II-knockdown MDCK cells

Adherens junctions (AJs) and tight junctions (TJs) comprise a junctional complex which plays key roles not only in cell adhesion and polarization but also in regulation of cell movement and proliferation in epithelial cells. E-Cadherin and nectin are major cell-cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) at AJs, whereas claudin is a major CAM at TJs. We have shown that the cadherin-based cell-cell adhesion is not formed in MDCK cells in which annexin II, a Ca(2+)- and phospholipid-binding protein, is knocked down. Here, we found that TJs and the nectin-based cell-cell adhesions were formed in annexin II-knockdown cells. The formation of TJs in annexin II-knockdown MDCK cells required the nectin-based cell-cell adhesion and afadin, a nectin- and actin-filament-binding protein. In addition, it required the activation of Cdc42 and Rac small G proteins and subsequent reorganization of the IQGAP1-dependent actin cytoskeleton which were induced by the nectin-based cell-cell adhesion. These results indicate that the nectin-based cell-cell adhesion and afadin, but not the cadherin-based cell-cell adhesion, are necessary for the formation of TJs and that the signaling by nectin and the subsequent reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton are also necessary for the formation of TJs under certain conditions.

Conversion of chitinous wastes to hydrogen gas by Clostridium paraputrificum M-21

The chitinolytic bacterium Clostridium paraputrificum strain M-21 produced 2.2 and 1.5 mol hydrogen gas from 1 mol N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (GlcNAc) and ball-milled chitin equivalent to 1 mol of GlcNAc, respectively, at pH 6.0. In addition, strain M-21 efficiently degraded and fermented ball-milled raw shrimp and lobster shells to produce hydrogen gas: 11.4 mmol H2 from 2.6 g of the former and 7.8 mmol H2 from 1.5 g of the latter. Hydrogen evolution from these shell wastes were enhanced two fold by employing acid and alkali pretreatment. Waste from the starch industry was also converted to hydrogen. When C. paraputrificum M-21 was cultivated on ball-milled chitin and ball-milled shrimp shells for 14 and 12 h, respectively, chitinases ChiA and/or ChiB were detected as the major chitinase species in the supernatant of the cultures, suggesting that the play a critical role in the degradation of chitinous materials.

Characterization of Clostridium paraputrificum chitinase A from a recombinant Escherichia coli

Clostridium paraputrificum chitinase A (ChiA) was purified from a recombinant Escherichia coli. ChiA was active toward chitin from crab shells, colloidal chitin, glycol chitin, and 4-methylumbelliferyl beta-D-N,N'-diacetylchitobioside [4-MU-(GlcNAc)2]. ChiA showed maximum activity at pH 6.0 and its optimum temperature was 45 degrees C. ChiA was stable between pH 6.0 and 9.0 and at temperatures up to 40 degrees C. The K(m) and V(max) values of ChiA for 4-MU-(GlcNAc)2 were estimated to be 6.9 microM and 43 micromol/min/mg, respectively. Thin-layer chromatography indicated that ChiA hydrolyzes chitooligosaccharides to mainly chitobiose. ChiA was found to adsorb not only chitinous polymers but also cellulosic polymers.

Effect of coffee intake on blood flow and maternal stress during the third trimester of pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of maternal ingestion of an ordinary dose of coffee on maternal stress and placental and fetal blood circulation during the third trimester of pregnancy.

METHODS

We performed a Doppler blood flow analysis for 10 women in the third trimester of pregnancy before and after they drank a cup of coffee. Salivary samples were collected from the 10 pregnant women and 14 nonpregnant controls just before coffee intake and 30 min later. Salivary cortisol levels and chromogranin A titers were determined.

RESULTS

Coffee intake had no effect on maternal or fetal blood flow. Among the pregnant women, Salivary cortisol levels were significantly reduced after coffee intake but salivary chromogranin A concentration was not significantly different before and after coffee intake.

CONCLUSION

The reduced salivary cortisol levels suggest that coffee intake decreases maternal stress during pregnancy.

Exercise and aspirin increase levels of circulating gliadin peptides in patients with wheat-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis

BACKGROUND

Food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis (FDEIA) is an allergic reaction characteristically induced by intense exercise combined with the ingestion of causative food. Recent reports have shown that aspirin intake is a contributing factor in some patients with FDEIA. Wheat is known to be the most frequent causative food, and the IgE-binding epitopes of a major wheat allergen (omega-5 gliadin) in wheat-dependent exercise induced anaphylaxis (WDEIA) have already been clarified. However, the mechanism of eliciting the symptom in WDEIA remains not fully understood.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship of serum gliadin levels and allergic symptoms induced by exercise or aspirin in patients with WDEIA.

METHODS

Six patients with a history of recurrent anaphylaxis associated with wheat ingestion were diagnosed as having WDEIA by the provocation test, which included wheat ingestion, exercise, aspirin intake and a combination of these challenges. During the tests, serum levels of gliadins were monitored by gliadin-specific sandwich ELISA. The effects of exercise and aspirin on serum gliadin levels were also investigated in four healthy subjects.

RESULTS

Immunoreactive gliadins appeared in the sera of patients during the provocation test with both wheat-exercise and wheat-aspirin challenges in parallel with allergic symptoms. Serum gliadin levels also increased under the two same challenge conditions in the healthy subjects, although they exhibited no allergic symptoms. However, low levels of gliadin were detected in the sera of both patients and healthy subjects when challenged with wheat alone.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated for the first time that blood gliadin levels correlate with clinical symptoms induced by exercise and aspirin in patients with WDEIA. These findings suggest that exercise and aspirin facilitate allergen absorption from the gastrointestinal tract.

Serum antibodies to carbonic anhydrase IV in patients with autoimmune pancreatitis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Serum antibodies to carbonic anhydrase (CA) II have been reported in patients with autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) and Sjogren's syndrome (SjS). However, their significance in the pathogenesis of these diseases is controversial. The aim of this study was to identify serum antibodies to CA isozymes, which are expressed in ductal cells of the pancreas.

METHODS

Recombinant proteins of human CAs IV, IX, and XII were obtained using a bacterial expression system, and five CA IV peptides with theoretically high antigenicity were synthesised. Western blotting and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to detect serum antibodies to the CA isozymes.

RESULTS

The first screening analysis by western blot showed serum antibodies to CA IV among three CA isozymes in patients with idiopathic chronic pancreatitis, including AIP patients. Further analysis by ELISA showed a significantly increased prevalence of serum antibodies to the truncated CA IV protein and the CA IV synthetic peptide (LGS LTT PTC DEK VVW TVF REP I) in patients with definite AIP (4/15 and 6/20, respectively; p<0.01), probable AIP (6/14 and 3/14; p<0.02), and SjS (9/20 and 8/40; p<0.001) compared with normal controls (0/26). There was no significant difference in the antibody prevalence rates between normal controls and patients with alcoholic chronic pancreatitis (2/15 in each) or pancreatic cancer (2/14 and 1/14, respectively). The presence of serum antibodies to the CA IV peptide showed significant correlations with serum gamma-globulin and IgG levels in AIP patients.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that CA IV may be a target antigen that is commonly expressed in epithelial cells of specific tissues involved in AIP and its related diseases.

Development of the needle insertion robot for percutaneous vertebroplasty

Percutaneous Vertebroplasty (PVP) is an effective and less invasive medical treatment for vertebral osteoporotic compression fractures. However, this operative procedure is quite difficult because an arcus vertebra, which is narrow, is needled with accuracy, and an operator's hand is exposed to X-ray continuously. We have developed a needle insertion robot for Percutaneous Vertebroplasty. Its experimental evaluation on the basic performance of the system and needle insertion accuracy are presented. A needle insertion robot is developed for PVP. This robot can puncture with accuracy and an operator does not need to be exposed to X-ray. The mechanism of the robot is compact in size (350 mm x D 400 mm x H270 mm, weight: 15 kg) so that the robot system can be inserted in the space between C-arm and the patient on the operating table. The robot system is controlled by the surgical navigation system where the appropriate needle trajectory is planned based on pre-operative three-dimensional CT images. The needle holding part of the robot is X-ray lucent so that the needle insertion process can be monitored by fluoroscopy. The position of the needle during insertion process can be continuously monitored. In vitro evaluation of the system showed that average position and orientation errors were less than 1.0 mm and 1.0 degree respectively. Experimental results showed that the safety mechanism called mechanical fuse released the needle holding disk properly when excessive force was applied to the needle. These experimental results demonstrated that the developed system has the satisfactory basic performance as needle insertion robot for PVP.

Association of ALDH(2) genotypes and alcohol consumption with periodontitis

There is little information regarding the association between alcohol consumption and periodontitis risk. We assessed whether alcohol consumption and ALDH(2) genotypes were associated with periodontitis. Subjects' lifestyle was examined by a self-administered questionnaire, and the percentage of pocket depths > or = 3.5 mm was used as a periodontal parameter. ALDH(2) genotypes were determined with the use of a PCR/RFLP method. Multiple logistic analyses showed that alcohol consumption was significantly associated with periodontitis, and its odds ratio was 1.98. There was no significant relationship between periodontal status and ALDH(2) genotypes. However, ALDH(2)*1/*2 subjects who consumed > or = 33 g/day of alcohol had a significantly greater percentage of pocket depths > or = 3.5 mm than those whose daily consumption was lower, while there was no significant difference in periodontal status associated with alcohol consumption in ALDH(2)*1/*1 subjects. Our results suggest that alcohol consumption may be a risk indicator for periodontitis in ALDH(2)*1/*2 subjects who consume larger amounts of alcohol.

Fast omega-gliadin is a major allergen in wheat-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis

BACKGROUND

Wheat-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis is an anaphylaxy induced by physical exercise after ingestion of wheat. An immediate-type hypersensitivity to water/salt-insoluble fraction of wheat proteins (gluten) has been considered to underlie in this disease.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study is to determine the major allergen in Japanese patients with wheat-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis by using a panel of purified wheat gliadins and glutenins.

METHODS

Water/salt-insoluble wheat proteins, alpha-gliadin, beta-gliadin, gamma-gliadin, fast omega-gliadin, slow omega-gliadin, high molecular weight glutenin and low molecular weight glutenin, were purified, and five patients with wheat-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis, whose diagnose had been determined by positive-challenge test, were evaluated for skin prick test, dot-blotting test and CAP-RAST inhibition test by using these purified wheat proteins.

RESULTS

The fast omega-gliadin was the most potent allergen among these water/salt-insoluble proteins when evaluated by skin prick test and dot-blotting test. Fast and slow omega-gliadin, and gamma-gliadin caused dose-dependent inhibition of the serum IgE-binding to solid-phase gluten in the patients. The incubation with fast omega-gliadin of the patient's serum caused dose-dependent inhibition in the IgE-binding to gamma-gliadin as well as slow omega-gliadin, indicating a cross-reactivity of these proteins in IgE-binding.

CONCLUSION

We concluded that fast omega-gliadin is a major allergen among these water/salt-insoluble proteins for wheat-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis in Japanese patients, and IgE against fast omega-gliadin cross-reacts to gamma-gliadin and slow omega-gliadin.

The relationship between pregnancy outcome and smooth endoplasmic reticulum clusters in MII human oocytes

BACKGROUND

During ICSI, we occasionally observe pronucleus sized translucent vacuoles. We investigated why these vacuoles occur and determined the effect on pregnancy outcome.

METHODS

Translucent vacuole-positive oocytes and the corresponding cohort were examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and histochemical staining with DiI and ER-Tracker. Stimulation methods, hormonal levels, patients' condition and grade of transferred embryos were compared between vacuole-positive and vacuole-negative cycles.

RESULTS

By TEM, we confirmed that the vacuoles were tubular-type smooth endoplasmic reticulum clusters (sERCs). Numerous small sERCs were also observed in the oocytes from the same cohort. Veeck's grades of transferred embryos were higher in sERC-positive cycles and fertilization rate was similar to those of sERC-negative cycles. However, in sERC-positive cycles, significantly lower pregnancy and higher biochemical pregnancy rates were shown. Serum estradiol levels on the day of hCG administration were significantly higher in sERC-positive cycles.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of sERCs is associated with lower chances of successful pregnancy, even in sERC-negative oocytes from the same cohort that are transferred along with the sERC-positive oocytes. High estradiol levels could be one of the causes of sERC formation.

Pharmacokinetic investigation of oral itraconazole in stratum corneum level of tinea pedis. Pharmakokinetische Untersuchungen zu oral appliziertem Itraconazol im Stratum corneum bei Tinea pedis

In the present study, the authors administered 100 mg itraconazole (ITCZ) twice daily for a period of 1 week to six patients with hyperkeratotic type tinea pedis, and examined its efficacy, safety profile, and usefulness. ITCZ concentration in stratum corneum was also measured to examine the mobility of the drug into the affected site of planta pedis. ITCZ concentration in the stratum corneum of the affected part was first detected at 1 week after the completion of administration, gradually increased over time, and peaked at 3 weeks, with the sum of ITCZ and hydroxyitraconazole (OH-ITCZ) amounting to 163.7 ng g(-1) on a average. It then gradually decreased to a total sum of 10.3 ng g(-1) on average at 8 weeks following the completion of administration. When compared with the geometric mean minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of ITCZ against fresh clinical isolates of dermatophytes (Trichophyton rubrum) (0.06 microg ml(-1)), the stratum corneum ITCZ concentration in this study was 2.1-fold of the geometric mean MIC at 2 weeks following the completion of administration, and 2.4-fold at 4 weeks. Although ITCZ does not produce therapeutic effectiveness (fungistasis) during the period of administration, it starts appearing at 2 weeks after the completion of administration, and after it peaks out at 3-4 weeks, clinical symptoms started improving. These results suggest that satisfying effects can be achieved in a short-term oral ITCZ at a dose of 100 mg twice daily for a period of 1 week in cases of hyperkeratotic type tinea pedis.

Usefulness of microspheres composed of gelatin with various cross-linking density

The release rate of insulin, as a model peptide, from gelatin microspheres (GM) prepared with gelatin having various cross-linking densities in vitro was examined. The release of insulin from GM showed the burst effect, followed by a slow release phase regardless of the cross-linking density of gelatin. The total amount of insulin released in 2 weeks decreased with increasing cross-linking density of gelatin. The release rate of insulin within 6 h was well correlated with the cross-linking density of gelatin. The remaining amounts of both insulin and GM after injection of insulin incorporated in GM to mice femoral muscle tissue were also examined in vivo. Both insulin and GM rapidly disappeared from the injection site within 1 day, and thereafter slowly disappeared over 14 days. The time courses of the remaining amounts were fairly similar to each other. Furthermore, the remaining amount of insulin 1 day after administration was well correlated with the cross-linking density of gelatin. These data suggest that insulin was released from GM with the degradation of GM in mice muscular tissue and that the release rate of insulin can be controlled by modifying the cross-linking density of gelatin. In conclusion, the control of the release rate of insulin from GM can be achieved under both in vitro and in vivo conditions by gelatin through the alteration of cross-linking conditions.

Resource use of insect seed predators during general flowering and seeding events in a Bornean dipterocarp rain forest

Insect seed predators of 24 dipterocarp species (including the genera ot Dipterocarpus, Dryobalanops and Shorea) and five species belonging to the Moraceae, Myrtaceae, Celastraceae and Sapotaceae were investigated. In a tropical lowland dipterocarp forest in Sarawak, Malaysia, these trees produces seeds irregularly by intensely during general flowering and seeding events in 1996 and/or 1998. Dipterocarp seeds were preyed on by 51 insect species (11 families), which were roughly classified into three taxonomic groups: smaller moths (Trotricidae, Pyralidae, Crambidae, Immidae, Sesiidae, and Cosmopterigidae), scolytids (Scolydae) and weevils (Curdulionidae, Apionidae, Anthribidae, and Attelabidae). Although the host-specificity of invertebrate seed predators has been assumed to be high in tropical forests, it was found that the diet ranges of some insect predators were relatively wide and overlapped one another. Most seed predators that were collected in both study years changes their diets between general flowering and seeding events. The results of cluster analyses based on the number of adult of each predator species that emerged from 100 seeds of each tree species, suggested that the dominant species was not consistent, alternating between the two years.