Search for differences in oscillation parameters for atmospheric neutrinos and antineutrinos at Super-Kamiokande

We present a search for differences in the oscillations of antineutrinos and neutrinos in the Super-Kamiokande-I, -II, and -III atmospheric neutrino sample. Under a two-flavor disappearance model with separate mixing parameters between neutrinos and antineutrinos, we find no evidence for a difference in oscillation parameters. Best-fit antineutrino mixing is found to be at (Δm2,sin2 2θ)=(2.0×10(-3)  eV2, 1.0) and is consistent with the overall Super-K measurement.

The effects of cell adhesion on the growth and protein productivity of animal cells

We investigated the effect of cell adhesion on cellgrowth and productivity of recombinant protein inChinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Cells cultured innormal tissue culture dishes attached to the dishsurfaces and grew as a monolayer, while cells culturedin non-treated dishes proliferated in suspension assingle cells without adhering to the dish surfaces. On an agarose-coated dish surface, cell aggregatesformed without attaching to the dish. Growth rates inboth suspension cultures were slightly lower thanthose in monolayer culture. Cell cycle analysisindicated that the duration of the G(1) phase insuspension cultures was longer than that in monolayerculture, suggesting that attachment to the substratummainly affected the transition from the G(1) to theS phase. Consistent with this, CDK inhibitor p27,that inhibits the G(1)S transition, was induced inthe cells cultured in suspension.To assess the productivity of recombinant proteins,CHO cells were transfected with a plasmid containingmurine interferon gamma (mIFN-gamma) under thecontrol of the cytomegalovirus promoter. Insuspension culture, mIFN-gamma productivity wasslightly lower than that in the monolayer culture. When protein kinase C was activated by phorbol ester,mIFN-gamma production was enhanced in both themonolayer and suspension cultures. However, theproductivity in the suspension culture was lower thanthat in the adherent culture even in the presence ofhigh concentrations of phorbol ester. These resultssuggested that cell adhesion to the substratum affectsvarious features of CHO cells.

Body and major organ weights of A/J-Chr 11(SM) consomic mice

The body and major organ weights of A/J-Chr 11(SM) consomic mice were compared to those of the progenitor strains, A/J and SM/J. The weights of the body and organs, except for those of the brain and uterus, were significantly greater in A/J mice than in SM/J mice. However, those of consomic mice were highly variable. For example, the average body weight of consomic mice was significantly greater than that of SM/J mice and nearly equal to that of A/J mice. Chromosome 11 of SM/J mice induced various significant changes of the organ weights of A/J mice, especially those of the brain, lung, kidney, adrenal, and ovary, demonstrating the importance of this chromosome in determining the phenotypes.

Expression of Human ApoAII in Transgenic Rabbits Leads to Dyslipidemia

Objective— Apolipoprotein AII (apoAII) is the second major apolipoprotein in high-density lipoprotein (HDL). However, the physiological functions of apoAII in lipoprotein metabolism have not been fully elucidated.

Methods and Results— We generated human apoAII transgenic (Tg) rabbits, a species that normally does not have an endogenous apoAII gene. Plasma levels of human apoAII in Tg rabbits were ≈30 mg/dL, similar to the plasma levels in healthy humans. The expression of human apoAII in Tg rabbits resulted in increased levels of plasma triglycerides, total cholesterol, and phospholipids accompanied by a marked reduction in HDL-cholesterol levels compared with non-Tg littermates. Analysis of lipoprotein fractions showed that hyperlipidemia exhibited by Tg rabbits was caused by elevated levels of very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) and intermediate-density lipoproteins. Furthermore, postheparin lipoprotein lipase activity significantly decreased in Tg rabbits compared with non-Tg rabbits.

Conclusions— These results indicate that apoAII plays an important role in both VLDL and HDL metabolism, possibly through the inhibition of lipoprotein lipase activity. ApoAII Tg rabbits may become a new model for the study of human familial combined hyperlipidemia.

Human C-reactive protein does not promote atherosclerosis in transgenic rabbits

BACKGROUND

Although there is a statistically significant association between modestly raised baseline plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) values and future cardiovascular events, the debate is still unsettled in regard to whether CRP plays a causal role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We generated 2 lines of transgenic (Tg) rabbits expressing human CRP (hCRP). The plasma levels of hCRP in hCRP-Tg-1 and hCRP-Tg-2 rabbits were 0.4+/-0.13 (n=14) and 57.8+/-20.6 mg/L (n=12), respectively. In addition, hCRP isolated from Tg rabbit plasma exhibited the ability to activate the rabbit complement. To define the role of hCRP in atherosclerosis, we compared the susceptibility of hCRP-Tg rabbits to cholesterol-rich diet-induced aortic and coronary atherosclerosis with that of non-Tg rabbits. After being fed with a cholesterol-rich diet for 16 weeks, Tg and non-Tg rabbits developed similar hypercholesterolemia and lesion sizes in both aortic and coronary arteries. Immunohistochemical staining and Western blotting revealed that hCRP was indeed present in the lesions but did not affect macrophage accumulation and smooth muscle cell proliferation of the lesions.

CONCLUSIONS

Neither high nor low plasma concentrations of hCRP affected aortic or coronary atherosclerosis lesion formation in hCRP-Tg rabbits.

Search for proton decay via p-->e+pi0 and p-->micro+pi0 in a large water Cherenkov detector

We have searched for proton decays via p-->e;{+}pi;{0} and p-->micro;{+}pi;{0} using data from a 91.7 kt.yr exposure of Super-Kamiokande-I and a 49.2 kt.yr exposure of Super-Kamiokande-II. No candidate events were observed with expected backgrounds induced by atmospheric neutrinos of 0.3 events for each decay mode. From these results, we set lower limits on the partial lifetime of 8.2 x 10;{33} and 6.6 x 10;{33} years at 90% confidence level for p-->e;{+}pi;{0} and p-->micro;{+}pi;{0} modes, respectively.

Comparison of rat mandible bone characteristics in F344 substrains, F344/Du and F344/N

The characteristics of the mandible bone were compared through DXA methods between two major substrains of F344 rats, F344/DuCrlCrlj and F344/NSlc at around 60 days of age. Since these two substrains are clearly different in survival and mandible morphology, some genetic differences are supposed to exist. In contrast to a previous microsatellite analysis, clear and significant differences were detected in the body and mandible weights, the mandible bone mineral contents (BMC), bone area (AREA), bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral ratio (BMR), between F344/DuCrlCrlj and F344/NSlc, with the mandible molar teeth intact in the bone. Thus, care is needed in the experimental use of these substrains, as results may differ between them. The newly proposed parameter, BMR, may especially contribute to the comparison of bone characteristics among species.

Amplification of competitive telomere sequence in living animal cells induces chromatin instability

We have reported the establishment of new episomal-type expression vector the copy number of which can be readily regulated by a temperature shift. In this study, we attempt to apply this vector for the functional analysis of the noncoding regions of DNA. A plasmid containing a 0.45 kb-telomere repeat sequence was constructed and transfected into simian CV-1 cells, leading to successful establishment of cell lines in which episomal telomere sequence could be amplified by temperature shift. When the episomal telomere sequence was amplified, the cells stopped proliferating at the G(2)/M phase of the cell cycle and exhibited a large size with flattened morphology and several small nucleus-like particles. These cells expressed Cdk inhibitor p21 and beta-galactosidase, which are expressed in some senescent cells. Microscopic analysis revealed frequent end-to-end attachments of chromosomes, which resulted in a variety of aberrant chromosome configurations. None of these characteristics was observed in nontransfected and control plasmid-transfected CV-1 cells at any cultivation temperature. These results indicate the usefulness of our vector system in analyzing telomeric DNA.

Natural dental caries in molars of osteogenic disorder Shionogi rats

Osteogenic disorder Shionogi (ODS) rats are genetically defective in ascorbic acid biosynthesis. They exhibit a gait abnormality due to dysfunctional bone formation and display various dental abnormalities. Conditions of the oral cavity and tooth quality both influence the development of dental caries. This study was designed to determine the characteristics of dental caries in ODS/ ShiJclod/od rats. Caries were scored and compared among ODS/ShiJclod/od, ODS/ShiJcl+/+, and Jcl:Wistar retired breeders. Among male rats, the caries scores of the ODS/ShiJclod/od and ODS/ShiJcl+/+ groups were similar to each other but greater than those in Jcl:Wistar rats, whereas among female rats, caries scores in ODS/ShiJclod/od animals were equivalent to or somewhat greater than those in ODS/ShiJcl+/+ rats, whose scores were markedly greater than those of Jcl:Wistar rats. The results suggest that ODS/ShiJcl rats were more susceptible to dental caries than were Jcl:Wistar rats. Under the conditions of the study, caries scores between ODS/ ShiJclod/od and ODS/ShiJcl+/+ rats differed only among parous females.

Occlusal tooth wear in female F344/N rats with aging

OBJECTIVES

This study was conducted to ascertain whether laboratory rats are an adequate animal model for aging oral cavity research, especially on occlusal tooth wear (OTW), which progresses with aging and causes abnormal occlusions. Mastication has been reported to relate to cognition in the elderly. Thus, it is important to care for the oral cavity, especially in the frail elderly, for the maintenance of all-round quality of life. Adequate and appropriate animal models are essential for basic and clinical research on the oral cavity.

METHODS

Dried maxilla and mandible specimens from 98 young, aging or aged female F344/N rats were used.

RESULTS

The levels of OTW of all molars were monitored with aging. The molar tooth began to wear at 1-month old (M) and progressed rapidly till 12M. Subsequently, OTW progressed slowly till 30M, and then rapidly again after 35M.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that progress of OTW is well correlated with the entire life span of the rat, and suggested that the rat aged over 12M would be an adequate animal model for research on OTW in middle-aged and elderly people.

Changes of estrous cycles with aging in female F344/n rats

Changes of estrous cycles with aging of F344/N rats between 1 and 30 months of age (M) were monitored by vaginal smear cytology. The vaginal opening and first cornified cell phase were identified at 1.3 +/- 0.1 M and 1.5 +/- 0.2 M, respectively. Thereafter, estrous cycles showed about 5-day intervals, and ceased at 16.4 +/- 1.2 M. Thereafter irregular appearance of single cornified cell phases without the preceding of nucleated cell phases interspersed with a predominant leukocyte phase was seen in vaginal smears until 26.9 +/- 0.5 M. Growing and mature follicles as well as corpora lutea persisted until at least 30 M, and characterized the post reproductive aging of F344/N females. The F344/N rats seem to resemble humans in that the cessation of estrous cycles occurs at approximately half their entire lifespan. However, other aging characteristics are unknown in postmenopausal women. Therefore, we must be careful when extrapolating the aging changes of reproduction in F344/N rats to human beings.

Morphometric comparison of the rat mandible in F344 substrains, F344/Du and F344/N

The shape of the mandible was compared by morphometric methods to ascertain the genetic differences between two substrains of F344 rats, F344/DuCrlCrlj and F344/NSlc. Since these two substrains are clearly different in survival and the incidence of age associated disorders; thus, some genetic differences are suggested to be present between them. Although previous microsatellite analysis did not detect any differences between the two F344 substrains, the present study clearly detected interesting differences in the mandible morphology. At 2 months of age, the F344/Du mandible was characterized by a larger size, especially in length, than the F344/N mandible. The shape of the mandible seemed to be more variable in F344/N. This clear substrain difference suggests the importance of the substrain recognition in F344 rats, especially in experimental usage.

Measurement of atmospheric neutrino flux consistent with tau neutrino appearance

A search for the appearance of tau neutrinos from nu(mu) <--> nu(tau) oscillations in the atmospheric neutrinos has been performed using 1489.2 days of atmospheric neutrino data from the Super-Kamiokande-I experiment. A best fit tau neutrino appearance signal of 138+/-48(stat)-32(+15)(syst) events is obtained with an expectation of 78+/-26(syst). The hypothesis of no tau neutrino appearance is disfavored by 2.4 sigma.

Integrase-mediated nonviral gene transfection with enhanced integration efficiency

Retroviruses efficiently integrate their genome into the host chromosome. Two elements of the retrovirus genome are needed for the integration: long terminal repeats (LTRs) and integrase protein. We attempted to incorporate the retrovirus integration machinery in lipid vesicle-mediated gene transfection with the aim of achieving efficient stable transfection in a nonviral gene transfection system. A DNA fragment, in which a neomycin-resistant gene was flanked between partial LTR sequences derived from the Rous sarcoma virus (RSV), was constructed. This DNA fragment was transfected together with purified recombinant RSV integrase or integrase expression vectors by means of lipid vesicle-mediated gene transfection. The integrase-mediated transfection enhanced the stable transfection efficiency. The length and the end structure of the LTR sequences were important in achieving high efficiency. Under optimal conditions, the stable transfection efficiency showed a 16-fold improvement over that without integrase.

In vivo evaluation of ocular inflammatory responses in experimental diabetes

AIMS

Diabetic patients may have abnormal inflammatory reactions to foreign or endogenous stimuli. This study was designed to evaluate inflammatory reactions in the diabetic eye through retinal leucocyte dynamics in the inflamed eyes of diabetic rats.

METHODS

Three weeks after diabetes induction in Long-Evans rats, endotoxin induced uveitis was produced by footpad injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). After LPS injection, leucocyte behaviour was evaluated in vivo by acridine orange digital fluorography.

RESULTS

The number of rolling leucocytes increased in a biphasic manner at 12 hours and 48 hours. The number of leucocytes accumulating in the retina reached a peak at 72 hours. The maximal numbers of rolling and accumulating leucocytes in the diabetic retina decreased by 56.3% (p<0.01) and 46.7% (p<0.0001), respectively, compared with the non-diabetic retina. The levels of mRNA expression of adhesion molecules in the retina, which were upregulated after LPS injection, were also lower in diabetic rats than in non-diabetic rats.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to show that endotoxin induced inflammation is disturbed in the diabetic eye, based on evidence that the leucocyte-endothelial cell interactions stimulated by LPS were suppressed in the diabetic retina. These findings support the theory that ocular inflammatory reactions are impaired in diabetic patients.

A neurophysiological evidence of capsaicin-sensitive nerve components innervating interscapular brown adipose tissue

Neurophysiological basis for the heterogeneity of the nerve components in the brown adipose tissue (BAT) was examined in this experiment. Efferent nerve signals were recorded from the central cut end of the small nerve filament dissected from the nerve fibers innervating the interscapular BAT (IBAT). By focusing on qualitative aspects of observed compound action potentials (spikes), we found two distinctive types of spikes exhibited by the intercostal nerves innervating IBAT. The spikes mainly appeared upon sympathetic stimulations (cold stimulation and glucose administration) were characterized by low amplitude with relatively short duration (small spike) and their sensitivity to the ganglion blocker, hexamethonium (C6). On the other hand, the spikes seen throughout the experiments were characterized by high amplitude with long duration (large spike) and their insensitivity to C6. Since BAT is activated by cold and feeding via sympathetic nervous system, the small spikes seemed to be exhibited by sympathetic fibers. On the other hand, appearance of the large C6-insensitive spikes was strongly attenuated in capsaicin-desensitized rats. Even though the functional link between IBAT and C6 insensitive fibers remains unanswered, our results suggest that IBAT is under control of various nerve types including capsaicin-sensitive fibers in addition to the control of sympathetic nervous system.

Preparation and pharmaceutical evaluation for clinical application of high specific activity S-(-)[11C]CGP-12177, a radioligand for beta-adrenoreceptors

BACKGROUND

Although S-(-)[C]CGP-12177 is a useful positron emission tomography (PET) ligand for beta-adrenoreceptors, the difficulty in radiolabelling the compound has prevented its extensive clinical application. Recently, we have developed a simple synthesis method for S-(-)[C]CGP-12177. In the present study, we attempted to prepare S-(-)[C]CGP-12177 with a high specific activity for intravenous injection which is feasible for the clinical evaluation of beta-adrenoreceptors.

METHODS

The [C]methane produced during irradiation of a N2--H2 (95/5) mixture with an 18 MeV proton beam (20 microA, 30 min) was chlorinated using Cl2 to yield [C]carbon tetrachloride. S-(-)[C]CGP-12177 was synthesized by reacting the diamino precursor with [C]phosgene produced by oxidizing [C]carbon tetrachloride on a Fe--Fe2O3 column. The product was purified by using reversed phase, high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) and the radioactive fraction containing S-(-)[C]CGP-12177 was collected and evaporated to dryness. S-(-)[C]CGP-12177 dissolved in physiological saline was sterilized through a 0.22 microm membrane filter. The radiochemical purity and the mass of the compound were determined with RP-HPLC. The residual organic solvents were determined with GC. Tests for sterility and the presence of bacterial endotoxins were also performed.

RESULTS

S-(-)[C]CGP-12177 for intravenous injection was prepared in 25 min after the end of bombardment with a yield of 1.5+/-0.2 GBq. Specific activity was found to be 385.4+/-133.0 GBq/ micromol at the end of synthesis (EOS) (n=3). Radiochemical purity was found to be more than 99%. Toluene was not detected in the solution. The ethanol concentration was determined to be 60.3+/-52.5 ppm. Tests for sterility and bacterial endotoxins showed negative results.

CONCLUSION

We successfully prepared S-(-)[C]CGP-12177 formulated for intravenous injection with high purity and high specific activity, which is feasible for the clinical evaluation of beta-adrenoreceptors.

Transverse fundal uterine incision in a patient with placenta increta

In cases with placenta accreta occurring on the previous cesarean scar, a longitudinal incision is generally appropriate. However, the placenta may prevent both a longitudinal and lower transverse incision. We report a case of placenta increta on the previous cesarean scar, and discuss the role of transverse fundal uterine incision.

Evidence for an oscillatory signature in atmospheric neutrino oscillations

Muon neutrino disappearance probability as a function of neutrino flight length L over neutrino energy E was studied. A dip in the L/E distribution was observed in the data, as predicted from the sinusoidal flavor transition probability of neutrino oscillation. The observed L/E distribution constrained nu(micro)<-->nu(tau) neutrino oscillation parameters; 1.9x10(-3)<Deltam(2)<3.0x10(-3) eV(2) and sin((2)2theta>0.90 at 90% confidence level.

Limits on the neutrino magnetic moment using 1496 days of Super-Kamiokande-I solar neutrino data

A search for a nonzero neutrino magnetic moment has been conducted using 1496 live days of solar neutrino data from Super-Kamiokande-I. Specifically, we searched for distortions to the energy spectrum of recoil electrons arising from magnetic scattering due to a nonzero neutrino magnetic moment. In the absence of a clear signal, we found micro(nu)</=(3.6x10(-10))micro(B) at 90% C.L. by fitting to the Super-Kamiokande day-night spectra. The fitting took into account the effect of neutrino oscillation on the shapes of energy spectra. With additional information from other solar neutrino and KamLAND experiments constraining the oscillation region, a limit of micro(nu)</=(1.1x10(-10))micro(B) at 90% C.L. was obtained.

Contribution of free nerve endings in the laryngeal epithelium to CO2 reception in rats

The superior laryngeal nerve (SLN) contains CO2-sensitive fibers. In the laryngeal epithelium, two candidates for CO2 reception have been identified, namely the intraepithelial free nerve endings and the taste buds. To elucidate the contribution of free nerve endings to CO2 reception, electrophysiological activities were recorded during various stages of regeneration of nerve endings following SLN-crush in rats. The left SLN was crushed surgically and maintained from 4 to 40 days for regeneration of nerve endings. Laryngeal sections were processed for immunohistochemical staining of protein gene product 9.5 to observe regeneration of free nerve endings and taste buds in the epithelium. By day 4 after SLN-crush, both the free nerve endings and taste buds had disappeared. Regeneration of the free nerve endings was recognized from day 8, while that of the taste buds started at day 16. On day 40, the number of taste buds on SLN-crush side was similar to that on the untreated side. Electrophysiological recording of SLN throughout the regeneration period (excluding day 4), showed response to intralaryngeal 9% CO2 (stimulation or inhibition) whether or not taste buds were present. Our results showed intralaryngeal CO2 reception without taste bud involvement, indicating that the free nerve endings in the laryngeal epithelium are receptive to intralaryngeal CO2.

Taste buds and nerve fibers in the rat larynx: an ultrastructural and immunohistochemical study

We investigated the rat laryngeal taste buds and their innervation by electron microscopy and immunohistochemical methods. Taste buds were densely arranged in the surface facing the laryngeal cavity of the epiglottis, the aryepiglottic fold, and the cuneiform process of the arytenoid cartilages. The cells of the buds were classified into types I, II, III, and basal cells, the ultrastucture of which was almost the same as that previously reported in lingual taste buds. The type III cells that had synaptic contacts with nerve fibers were considered to be sensory cells. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed thick calbindin D28k-immunoreactive fibers and thin varicose fibers immunoreactive for calcitonin gene-related peptide or substance P in and around the taste bud. Serotonin-immunoreactive cells were also observed here. The results revealed the innervation pattern of laryngeal taste buds to be the same as that in lingual taste buds. Carbonic anhydrase (CA) is known to catalyze the hydration of CO2 and dehydration of H2CO3, and seems to be essential in CO2 reception. Immunoreactivity for CAI was detected in slender cells and that for CAIII was observed in barrel-like cells in the laryngeal taste buds. The pH-sensitive inward rectifier K+ (Kir) channel in the cell membrane may be involved in CO2 reception as well. CAII-reactive cells were also reactive to Kir4.1, PGP 9.5 and serotonin. Our results indicated that CAII and Kir4.1 are located in type III cells of the laryngeal taste buds, and supported the idea that the buds may be involved in the recognition of CO2.

Immunohistochemical localization of carbonic anhydrase isozymes in the rat carotid body

The rat carotid body was immunohistochemically stained for carbonic anhydrase I, II and III (CA-I, CA-II and CA-III). Immunoreactivity for CA-I was distributed in type I cells, type II cells and nerve bundles. Smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells of blood vessels were also strongly stained for CA-I. CA-II immunoreactivity was distinctly positive in type I cells and nerve bundles. Vascular smooth muscle cells were weakly positive, and type II cells were negative for CA-II. CA-III immunoreactivity was identified in type I cells and vascular smooth muscle cells. Our results suggest that carbonic anhydrase isozymes in type I cells play an important role in chemoreception for hypercapnia. Immunoreactivities for CA-I and CA-II in the nerve fibres may participate in the synergic action of carotid sinus nerve between hypoxic and hypercapnic stimuli.

Search for nu(e) from the sun at Super-Kamiokande-I

We present the results of a search for low energy nu(e) from the Sun using 1496 days of data from Super-Kamiokande-I. We observe no significant excess of events and set an upper limit for the conversion probability to nu(e) of the 8B solar neutrino. This conversion limit is 0.8% (90% C.L.) of the standard solar model's neutrino flux for total energy=8-20 MeV. We also set a flux limit for monochromatic nu(e) for E(nu(e))=10-17 MeV.

Suppressive effects of selectin inhibitor SKK-60060 on the leucocyte infiltration during endotoxin induced uveitis

BACKGROUND

It is well known that selectin is involved in the development of endotoxin induced uveitis (EIU), and has a major role in leucocyte infiltration. Recently, a novel selectin inhibitor (SKK-60060) that can block P and L selectins in vitro has been developed. This study was designed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of SKK-60060 on the inflammatory reaction during EIU in rats by studying leucocyte-endothelium interactions.

METHODS

EIU was induced in Lewis rats by footpad injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). SKK-60060 was administered 15 minutes before LPS injection, and its suppressive effects on inflammatory leucocyte behaviour were evaluated in vivo with acridine orange digital fluorography; the diameters of retinal arteries and veins were also measured. After these studies, aqueous humour was collected to evaluate leucocyte infiltration and protein leakage.

RESULTS

After LPS injection, rolling leucocytes were observed in major retinal veins, followed by leucocyte infiltration into the vitreous cavity. Following treatment with SKK-60060, leucocyte rolling was significantly inhibited in the retinal veins (p <0.01), and subsequent leucocyte infiltration into the vitreous cavity was also significantly suppressed (p <0.01). Retinal vasodilation was also substantially suppressed in SKK-60060 treated rats (p <0.01). Similarly, leucocyte infiltration and protein leakage into the aqueous humour were reduced significantly by SKK-60060 (p <0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

SKK-60060 treatment significantly inhibited the inflammatory reaction induced by LPS. Its inhibitory effects on P and L-selectin resulted in suppression of leucocyte infiltration and the subsequent inflammatory reaction caused by accumulated leucocytes. The current findings suggest that SKK-60060 may be useful in the management of uveitis.

NF-kappaB activation and iNOS expression in the synovial membrane of rat temporomandibular joints after induced synovitis

NF-kappaB plays a pivotal role in pathogenesis in general arthritis. However, the participation of NF-kappaB in inflammation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is poorly understood. We examined NF-kappaB expression in rat TMJs with synovitis induced by condyle hypermobility. By immunohistochemistry, NF-kappaB immunoreactivity was found mainly in the cytoplasm, not the nucleus, of the synovial lining cells of induced-synovitis and control TMJs. Southwestern histochemistry, a new method for detecting transcription factors, showed greater NF-kappaB expression in the nucleus of the synovial lining cells in the hypertrophic synovium than in control synovium. Increased numbers of the synovial lining cells with immunoreactivity for inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), which is transcriptionally regulated by NF-kappaB, were also seen in the inflamed synovium. These findings indicate that excess mechanical stress increases NF-kappaB activation in the TMJ and suggest that active NF-kappaB is involved in the progression of TMJ inflammation.

Search for supernova relic neutrinos at Super-Kamiokande

A search for the relic neutrinos from all past core-collapse supernovae was conducted using 1496 days of data from the Super-Kamiokande detector. This analysis looked for electron-type antineutrinos that had produced a positron with an energy greater than 18 MeV. In the absence of a signal, 90% C.L. upper limits on the total flux were set for several theoretical models; these limits ranged from 20 to 130 macro nu(e) cm(-2) s(-1). Additionally, an upper bound of 1.2 macro nu(e) cm(-2) s(-1) was set for the supernova relic neutrino flux in the energy region E(nu)>19.3 MeV.

The acceleration of cosmic-ray protons in the supernova remnant RX J1713.7-3946

Protons with energies up to approximately 10(15) eV are the main component of cosmic rays, but evidence for the specific locations where they could have been accelerated to these energies has been lacking. Electrons are known to be accelerated to cosmic-ray energies in supernova remnants, and the shock waves associated with such remnants, when they hit the surrounding interstellar medium, could also provide the energy to accelerate protons. The signature of such a process would be the decay of pions (pi(0)), which are generated when the protons collide with atoms and molecules in an interstellar cloud: pion decay results in gamma-rays with a particular spectral-energy distribution. Here we report the observation of cascade showers of optical photons resulting from gamma-rays at energies of approximately 10(12) eV hitting Earth's upper atmosphere, in the direction of the supernova remnant RX J1713.7-3946. The spectrum is a good match to that predicted by pion decay, and cannot be explained by other mechanisms.

Spontaneous recurrence of methamphetamine-induced paranoid-hallucinatory states in female subjects: susceptibility to psychotic states and implications for relapse of schizophrenia

In this study, we examined the relationship between increased sensitivity to stress associated with noradrenergic hyperactivity and dopaminergic changes, and susceptibility to subsequent spontaneous recurrences of methamphetamine (MAP) psychosis (i.e., flashbacks). The subjects were 81 physically healthy females. Plasma monoamine metabolite levels were assayed in: 19 flashbackers, of whom 11 experienced a single flashback and 8 exhibited subsequent flashbacks; 20 non-flashbackers with a history of MAP psychosis; 8 subjects with persistent MAP psychosis; and 23 MAP users and 11 non-user controls. All 19 flashbackers had undergone frightening and stressful experiences during previous MAP use. Mild psychosocial stressors then triggered their flashbacks. During flashbacks, plasma norepinephrine levels increased, with a small increase in plasma levels of 3-methoxytyramine, which is an index of dopamine release. Among the 19 flashbackers, the 8 with subsequent episodes had increased NE levels and slightly increased 3-methoxytyramine levels, while the 11 with a single episode displayed small increases in norepinephrine and 3-methoxytyramine levels. Thus, noradrenergic hyperactivity and increased dopamine release in response to mild psychosocial stressors may be responsible for the development of flashbacks. Robust noradrenergic hyperactivity with slightly increased DA release in response to mild stress may induce susceptibility to subsequent flashbacks. Flashbacks and schizophrenia may share the pathophysiology of susceptibility to recurrence of paranoid-hallucinatory states such as stress sensitization, and also noradrenergic hyperactivity and enhanced DA release. Thus, flashbacks may provide an appropriate model of susceptibility to paranoid-hallucinatory states of schizophrenia. The model psychosis is a potential tool for validating basic neurobiological concepts thought to be related to the schizophrenia. A better understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms of susceptibility to recurrence could provide useful information in the development of strategies for preventing relapse.

[Four cases of multiple liver metastasis of colorectal cancer treated with hepatic resection after chemotherapy]

Four cases of multiple liver metastasis of colorectal cancer treated with hepatic resection after chemotherapy were investigated. The 4 patients consisted of 3 males and 1 female with a mean age of 67.8 years. Two patients underwent systemic chemotherapy, and the other 2 received hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy. The effect was PR in all patients, and mean duration until resection was 8.5 months. One patient had lung metastasis and one had recurrence in a local lesion and residual liver after hepatic resection, but all patients remain alive. The longest survival periods in 4 patients who underwent hepatic resection and 13 who did not were 32 and 24 months, respectively. It is suggested that hepatic resection after chemotherapy for multiple liver metastasis of colorectal cancer may be useful for improvement of outcome.

Susceptibility to subsequent episodes of spontaneous recurrence of methamphetamine psychosis

We examine susceptibility to subsequent spontaneous recurrences of methamphetamine psychosis (i.e. flashbacks) in 11 flashbackers with a single episode and in nine flashbackers with subsequent episodes. All had undergone frightening stressful experiences during previous MAP use. Mild psychosocial stressors then triggered flashbacks. During flashbacks, the nine flashbackers with subsequent episodes had more markedly increased norepinephrine levels, with slightly increased 3-methoxytyramine levels. The duration of imprisonment in this subgroup approached significantly long levels than in the 11 flashbackers with a single episode. Robust noradrenergic hyperactivity with slightly increased dopamine release may therefore predict subsequent flashbacks. Longer exposure to distressing situations may also contribute to robust noradrenergic hyperactivity.

Electrocyclic rearrangement of pentamethylcyclooctapyrimidine-2,4-diones: reaction pathway into a 9,11-diazapentacyclo-[6.4.0.0(1,3).0(2,5).0(4,8)]dodecane system and a 9,11-diazapentacyclo [6.4.0.0(1,3).0(2,6).0(4,8)]dodecane system

Photolysis of 6-chloro-1,3-dimethyluracil and mesitylene in the presence of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) at low temperature gave 1,3,5,7,9- and 1,3,6,8,10-pentamethylcyclooctapyrimidine-2,4-diones (1b, 1c). Sequential photoreaction of the former (1b) resulted in the formation of 9,11-diazapentacyclo[6.4.0.0(1,3).0(2,5).0(4,8)]dodecane-2,4-dione (2b) by way of 9-exo-methylene derivative (7b) and cyclobutaquinazoline (8b). On the other hand, UV-irradiation of 1c led to the bond shift isomer (5c) whose photolysis in the presence of TFA gave rise to the formation of the [6.4.0.0(1,3).0(2,6).0(4,8)]dodecane isomer (3c).

Inhibitory effect of ischemic preconditioning on leukocyte participation in retinal ischemia-reperfusion injury

PURPOSE

Recent reports have shown that ischemic preconditioning induces strong protection against retinal damage by subsequent prolonged ischemia and that this protection is mediated by mechanisms involving the adenosine A1 receptor. This study was designed to evaluate quantitatively the effects of ischemic preconditioning on leukocyte-mediated reperfusion injury after transient retinal ischemia and to define the role of the adenosine A1 receptor in these effects.

METHODS

Transient retinal ischemia was induced in male rats by temporary ligation of the optic nerve. Ischemic preconditioning (5 minutes of ischemia) was induced 24 hours before 60 minutes of ischemia. The adenosine A1 receptor antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX) was administered intramuscularly immediately after ischemic preconditioning. Leukocyte behavior in the retina after 60 minutes of ischemia was evaluated in vivo with acridine orange digital fluorography.

RESULTS

Ischemic preconditioning inhibited leukocyte rolling. The maximum number of rolling leukocytes was reduced to 3.0% at 12 hours after reperfusion (P < 0.01). Subsequent leukocyte accumulation was also decreased with ischemic preconditioning. The maximum number of accumulated leukocytes was reduced to 22.6% at 24 hours after reperfusion (P < 0.01). These inhibitory effects were suppressed by administration of DPCPX (P < 0.0001). The numbers of rolling leukocytes at 12 hours after reperfusion and accumulated leukocytes at 24 hours after reperfusion were 102.7% (NS) and 83.4% (P < 0.01), respectively, compared with the number without ischemic preconditioning.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrates the inhibitory effects of ischemic preconditioning on leukocyte rolling and subsequent leukocyte accumulation during retinal ischemia-reperfusion injury. Furthermore, the adenosine A1 receptor may play an important role in these inhibitory effects.

Complete genome sequence of an aerobic thermoacidophilic crenarchaeon, Sulfolobus tokodaii strain7

The complete genomic sequence of an aerobic thermoacidophilic crenarchaeon, Sulfolobus tokodaii strain7 which optimally grows at 80 degrees C, at low pH, and under aerobic conditions, has been determined by the whole genome shotgun method with slight modifications. The genomic size was 2,694,756 bp long and the G + C content was 32.8%. The following RNA-coding genes were identified: a single 16S-23S rRNA cluster, one 5S rRNA gene and 46 tRNA genes (including 24 intron-containing tRNA genes). The repetitive sequences identified were SR-type repetitive sequences, long dispersed-type repetitive sequences and Tn-like repetitive elements. The genome contained 2826 potential protein-coding regions (open reading frames, ORFs). By similarity search against public databases, 911 (32.2%) ORFs were related to functional assigned genes, 921 (32.6%) were related to conserved ORFs of unknown function, 145 (5.1%) contained some motifs, and remaining 849 (30.0%) did not show any significant similarity to the registered sequences. The ORFs with functional assignments included the candidate genes involved in sulfide metabolism, the TCA cycle and the respiratory chain. Sequence comparison provided evidence suggesting the integration of plasmid, rearrangement of genomic structure, and duplication of genomic regions that may be responsible for the larger genomic size of the S. tokodaii strain7 genome. The genome contained eukaryote-type genes which were not identified in other archaea and lacked the CCA sequence in the tRNA genes. The result suggests that this strain is closer to eukaryotes among the archaea strains so far sequenced. The data presented in this paper are also available on the internet homepage (http://www.bio.nite.go.jp/E-home/genome_list-e.html/).

Production of transgenic quails with high frequency of germ-line transmission using VSV-G pseudotyped retroviral vector

We report here the production of transgenic quails using a replication-defective pantropic retroviral vector based on Moloney murine leukemia virus (MoMLV) pseudotyped with vesicular stomatitis virus G protein (VSV-G). The retroviral vector was injected into laid quail embryos at the blastodermal stage, and the embryos were incubated to hatch to produce G(0) transgenic quails. Among 134 embryos subjected to viral injection, 37 hatched. The viral vector sequence was detected in the tissues of all G(0) quails. The germ-line transmission efficiency of G(0) quails mated with nontransgenic quails was more than 80% on average. Southern blot analysis revealed that the G(1) transgenic progeny had one to three copies of the transgene. The expression of vector-encoded neomycin-resistance gene under the control of the Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) promoter was observed in several tissues including heart and muscle of both G(1) and G(2) transgenic offspring. Due to the high frequency of germ-line transmission, this method may markedly facilitate the production of transgenic avian.

In vivo evaluation of platelet--endothelial interactions after transient retinal ischemia

PURPOSE

Accumulating evidence suggests that platelets play an important role in ischemia-reperfusion injury. To fulfill that role, platelets flowing in the bloodstream would have to interact with retinal endothelial cells and to accumulate in the postischemic retina. This study was designed to investigate quantitatively platelet-endothelial interactions in postischemic retina after transient retinal ischemia.

METHODS

Transient retinal ischemia was induced in Long-Evans rats for 60 minutes by temporal ligation of the optic nerve. Isolated platelet samples labeled with carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester were administered intravenously to recipient rats after various reperfusion periods. Platelet-endothelial interactions in postischemic retina were evaluated in vivo with a scanning laser ophthalmoscope. Anti-P-selectin monoclonal antibody (mAb) was administered 5 minutes before the injection of labeled platelets. P-selectin gene expression in the postischemic retina was studied by semiquantitative polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Under basal conditions, infused platelets showed minimal interactions with retinal endothelial cells. In contrast, postischemic retinas showed active platelet-endothelial interactions. Many platelets were observed rolling along and adhering to the major retinal veins. The number of rolling and adhering platelets reached a peak (555 +/- 65/mm per min and 25.8 +/- 3.2/mm(2)) 12 hours after reperfusion. However, the interactions between platelets and postischemic retinal endothelial cells were substantially inhibited by neutralizing P-selectin expressed on endothelial cells. In addition, P-selectin gene expression in postischemic retina corresponded with the time course of platelet-endothelial interactions during the reperfusion period.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that platelets actively interacted with retinal endothelial cells in the postischemic retina through P-selectin expressed on the retinal endothelial cells.

Comparison in localization between cystatin C and cathepsin K in osteoclasts and other cells in mouse tibia epiphysis by immunolight and immunoelectron microscopy

We compared the distribution of a cysteine proteinase inhibitor, cystatin C, with that of cathepsin K in osteoclasts of the mouse tibia by immunolight and immunoelectron microscopy. Light microscopically, strong immunoreactivity for cystatin C was found extracellularly along the resorption lacuna and intracellularly in the organelles of osteoclasts. In serial sections, various patterns of cystatin C and cathepsin K localization were seen, specifically: (1) some resorption lacuna were positive for both cystatin C and cathepsin K; (2) others were positive for either cystatin C or cathepsin K, but not both; and (3) some lacuna were negative for both. In osteoclasts, the localization of cystatin C was similar to that of cathepsin K. Furthermore, cystatin C immunoreactivity was detected in preosteoclasts and osteoblasts, whereas cathepsin K was seen only in preosteoclasts. Electron microscopically, cystatin C immunoreactive products were found in the rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER), Golgi apparatus, vesicles, granules, and vacuoles of osteoclasts. These cystatin C-positive vesicles had fused or were in the process of fusion with the ampullar vacuoles (extracellular spaces) containing cystatin C-positive, fragmented, fibril-like structures. The extracellular cystatin C was deposited on and between the cytoplasmic processes of ruffled borders, and on and between type I collagen fibrils. In the basolateral region of osteoclasts, cystatin C-positive vesicles and granules also fused with vacuoles that contained cystatin C-positive or negative fibril-like structures. These results indicate that osteoclasts not only synthesize and secrete cathepsin K from the ruffled border into the bone resorption lacunae, but also a cysteine proteinase inhibitor, cystatin C. Therefore, it is suggested that cystatin C regulates the degradation of bone matrix by cathepsin K, both extracellularly and intracellularly.