Assay of 222Rn in water samples by a modified integral counting method

22Rn activity concentrations in water collected from 163 private wells and 14 springs in Tokyo were measured with a liquid scintillation spectrometer using a modified integral counting method. The activity concentrations of 222Rn range from 0.2 to 22.9 Bq/L and average 4.8 Bq/L. The errors due to the air luminescence counts and the interferences from 220Rn and 219Rn are discussed and evaluated. 222Rn samples of 0.2 Bq/L can be assayed within an overall uncertainty of 3.1%. The liquid scintillation method involving agitation of the sample water directly with a liquid scintillation cocktail was compared with the present method and evaluated.

Use of temporary vena cava filters after catheter-directed fragmentation and thrombolysis in patients with acute pulmonary thromboembolism

Acute pulmonary thromboembolism is a life-threatening disease and in almost all cases originates from deep venous thrombosis in the proximal deep venous system of the legs. In order to prevent further episodes of thromboembolism in 2 patients with acute pulmonary thromboembolism, we inserted an Antheor temporary vena cava filter after catheter-directed fragmentation and thrombolysis. No complications occurred during the insertion of the filters and our results suggest that this filter device may be clinically safe and effective for temporary protection against pulmonary thromboembolism.

Histo-blood group A/B antigen deletion/reduction vs. continuous expression in human tumor cells as correlated with their malignancy

Deletion or reduction of histo-blood group A or B antigen in tumors of A or B individuals is clearly correlated with the degree of malignancy and metastatic potential in many types of human cancer. Haptotactic motility of A+H- or B+H- colonic or gastric tumor cell lines produced by transfection of A or B gene was significantly lower than that of parental A-H+ or B-H+ cells. This is ascribable to reduced function of alpha3 or alpha6/beta1 integrin receptor as we have recently shown. However, phenotypic changes resulting from gene transfection may not reflect physiological states associated with deletion or reduction vs. continuous expression of A or B antigen in tumors. We now describe the separation and phenotype characterization of A- cells from A+ tumor cell lines derived originally from colonic tumors of patients with histo-blood group A. A+ and A- populations were detected in originally A+ tumor cell lines SW480 and HT29. A- separated from A+ populations isolated from SW480 and HT29 were characterized by greatly enhanced haptotactic motility associated with reduced or deleted A expression at alpha3, alpha6, and beta1 integrin receptors which control cell motility. Nevertheless, expression of integrin receptors at the surface of A populations is the same as that for A+ populations for both SW480 and HT29 cells. Thus, A vs. H glycosylation in integrin receptors may alter their haptotactic function. Cell proliferation as reflected by 3H-thymidine incorporation was also reduced significantly in A+ as compared to A- populations. Our findings indicate that the degree of haptotactic motility and proliferation of colonic tumor cells are physiologically associated with the deletion or reduction vs. continuous expression of the histo-blood group A antigen.

Histo-blood group A/B antigen deletion/reduction vs. continuous expression in human tumor cells as correlated with their malignancy

Deletion or reduction of histo-blood group A or B antigen in tumors of A or B individuals is clearly correlated with the degree of malignancy and metastatic potential in many types of human cancer. Haptotactic motility of A+H- or B+H- colonic or gastric tumor cell lines produced by transfection of A or B gene was significantly lower than that of parental A-H+ or B-H+ cells. This is ascribable to reduced function of alpha3 or alpha6/beta1 integrin receptor as we have recently shown. However, phenotypic changes resulting from gene transfection may not reflect physiological states associated with deletion or reduction vs. continuous expression of A or B antigen in tumors. We now describe the separation and phenotype characterization of A- cells from A+ tumor cell lines derived originally from colonic tumors of patients with histo-blood group A. A+ and A- populations were detected in originally A+ tumor cell lines SW480 and HT29. A- separated from A+ populations isolated from SW480 and HT29 were characterized by greatly enhanced haptotactic motility associated with reduced or deleted A expression at alpha3, alpha6, and beta1 integrin receptors which control cell motility. Nevertheless, expression of integrin receptors at the surface of A populations is the same as that for A+ populations for both SW480 and HT29 cells. Thus, A vs. H glycosylation in integrin receptors may alter their haptotactic function. Cell proliferation as reflected by 3H-thymidine incorporation was also reduced significantly in A+ as compared to A- populations. Our findings indicate that the degree of haptotactic motility and proliferation of colonic tumor cells are physiologically associated with the deletion or reduction vs. continuous expression of the histo-blood group A antigen.

GM3-enriched microdomain involved in cell adhesion and signal transduction through carbohydrate-carbohydrate interaction in mouse melanoma B16 cells

Mouse melanoma B16 cells are characterized by the predominant presence of ganglioside GM3 and adhere to lactosylceramide- or Gg3-coated plates through interaction of GM3 with lactosylceramide or Gg3, whereby not only adhesion but also spreading and enhancement of cell motility occur (Kojima, N., Hakomori, S. (1991) J. Biol. Chem. 266, 17552-17558). We now report that the adhesion process is based essentially on a glycosphingolipid-enriched microdomain (GEM) at the B16 cell surface, since >90% of GM3 present in the original cells is found in GEM, and GEM is also enriched in several signal transducer molecules, e.g. c-Src, Ras, Rho, and focal adhesion kinase (FAK). GEM was isolated as a low density membranous fraction by homogenization of B16 cells in lysis buffer under two different conditions (i.e. buffer containing 1% Triton X-100, or hypertonic sodium carbonate without detergent), followed by sucrose density gradient centrifugation. A close association of GM3 with c-Src, Rho, and FAK was indicated by co-immunoprecipitation of GM3 present in GEM by anti-GM3 monoclonal antibody DH2, followed by Western blotting with antibodies directed to these transducer molecules. The following data indicate that GEM is a structural and functional unit for initiation of GM3-dependent cell adhesion coupled with signal transduction. 1) Tyrosine phosphorylation in FAK was greatly enhanced in B16 cells adhered to Gg3-coated plates but was minimal in cells adhered to GM3-coated, GlcCer-coated, or noncoated plates. 2) GTP loading on Ras and Rho increased significantly when cells were adhered to Gg3-coated plates, compared with GM3-coated, GlcCer-coated, or noncoated plates. Since Ras and Rho are closely associated with GM3 in GEM, cell adhesion/stimulation through GM3 in GEM may induce activation of Ras and Rho through enhanced GTP binding.

The alpha 1-->3 fucosylation at the penultimate GlcNAc catalyzed by fucosyltransferase VII is blocked by internally fucosylated residue in sialosyl long-chain poly-LacNAc: enzymatic basis for expression of physiological E-selectin epitope

Sialosyl-fucosyl poly-LacNAc without sialosyl-Lex epitope in myeloid cell line HL60 was shown to be the ligand for E-selectin-dependent adhesion, particularly under dynamic flow conditions, in our previous study (Handa K, Stroud MR, Hakomori S, Biochemistry 36, 12412-12420, 1997). HL60 cells express only fucosyl-transferase (FT) IV and VII. X3NeuAcVII3FucnLc10, a representative component showing E-selectin-dependent binding under dynamic flow conditions, is not alpha 1-->3 fucosylated at the penultimate GlcNAc catalyzed by FT-VII, but is alpha 1-->3 fucosylated at the internal GlcNAc catalyzed by FT-IV. VI3NeuAcnLc6 is converted to VI3NeuAcIII3FucnLc6 by FT-IV, but is also converted to VI3NeuAcV3FucnLc6 by FT-VII. Thus, penultimate fucosylation catalyzed by FT-VII is not restricted for nLc6 backbone, but is highly restricted for nLc10 backbone. The cooperative effect of FT-IV and FT-VII for synthesis of poly-LacNAc having sialosyl-Lex with internal fucosylation may be blocked or highly restricted in poly-LacNAc having more than two LacNAc units, because preferential alpha 1-->3 fucosylation by FT-IV takes place at internal GlcNAc, inhibiting penultimate fucosylation by FT-VII.

Sialosyl-fucosyl Poly-LacNAc without the sialosyl-Lex epitope as the physiological myeloid cell ligand in E-selectin-dependent adhesion: studies under static and dynamic flow conditions

The majority of E- and P-selectin ligands in leukocytes and myelocytic or monocytic leukemia cells are carried by transmembrane glycoproteins having a tandem repeat mucin-like domain through which O-linked carbohydrate ligands are carried. However, determination of structure and adhesive function of carbohydrates in glycoproteins is extremely difficult because of the extensive structural heterogeneity and the scarcity of material for functional analysis. We have overcome this difficulty through use of poly-LacNAc gangliosides isolated from a large quantity of ( approximately 1.2 L packed) HL60 cells [Stroud, M. R., Handa, K., Salyan, M. E. K., Ito, K., Levery, S. B., Hakomori, S., Reinhold, B. B., & Reinhold, V. N. (1996) Biochemistry 35, 758-769, 770-778]. We identified two major types of poly-LacNAc gangliosides without the sialosyl-Lex epitope as being capable of binding to E-selectin: (i) those having a single alpha1-->3 fucosylation at internal GlcNAcs but not at the penultimate GlcNAc and (ii) those having double alpha1-->3 fucosylation at internal GlcNAcs, excluding the penultimate GlcNAc. Gangliosides from group i above did not show any adhesion under static conditions, but showed strong adhesion under dynamic flow conditions. Gangliosides from group ii above showed adhesion under both static and dynamic conditions, as did sialosyl-Lex (SLex)-containing structures in previous studies. However, SLex-containing poly-LacNAc gangliosides are virtually absent or present in only trace quantities in leukocytes and HL60 cells. Poly-LacNAc gangliosides from groups i and ii above, lacking SLex structure, are the major membrane components of leukocytes and HL60 cells. These carbohydrates, bound to lipid or to protein, may therefore be the physiological epitope for E-selectin-dependent binding of these cells, particularly under dynamic flow conditions.

Histo-blood group A/B versus H status of human carcinoma cells as correlated with haptotactic cell motility: approach with A and B gene transfection

In a search for the molecular basis of ABH status of tumors as correlated with malignancy, we studied various malignancy-related phenotypes of high H/Le(y)-expressing tumor cell lines in comparison with phenotypes of the same lines transfected with histo-blood group A or B genes. A and B gene transfectants, prepared independently from different H-active parental cells, showed A or B activity and abolition of H activity. All A and B gene transfectants, regardless of source, were characterized by significantly reduced Matrigel-dependent haptotactic motility. The level of haptotaxis of all transfectants was similar to that of parental cells in the presence of antibodies against human integrin subunits alpha3, alpha6, or beta1. These subunits showed high expression of A or B epitope in the A and B gene transfectants. Enhancement versus reduction of malignancy, associated with deletion versus induction of A/B epitopes, may be due in part to enhanced haptotaxis sustained by alpha3, alpha6, and beta1 integrin receptors, the activities of which are regulated by H or A/B glycosylation. These phenotypic changes provide a rationale for the deletion of A and B epitopes as one criterion defining human tumor malignancy.

A close association of GM3 with c-Src and Rho in GM3-enriched microdomains at the B16 melanoma cell surface membrane: a preliminary note

B16 melanoma is characterized by high content of GM3 ganglioside, which has been recognized as a melanoma-associated antigen defined by specific monoclonal antibodies. We report now that GM3 is present predominantly (>90%) in the 1% Triton X-100-insoluble, low-density microvesicular fraction ("detergent-insoluble glycosphingolipid-enriched microdomain"; DIGEM) separated on sucrose density-gradient centrifugation. Associated with DIGEM, many signal transducer molecules such as c-Src, FAK, and the low-molecular-weight G-proteins Rho A and H-Ras were also found. Rho A and FAK were found in part, and PLC-beta2 and G alphas were found exclusively, in the high-density fraction. Immunoprecipitation of GM3 present in DIGEM by anti-GM3 antibody DH2, followed by Western blotting, revealed co-precipitation of Rho A and c-Src with GM3. These findings suggest (i) a specific organization of GM3 in close association with Rho A and c-Src within DIGEM at the melanoma cell surface; and (ii) such organizational units may be directly involved in signal transduction, in which glycosphingolipids receive signals which are subsequently transduced by associated transducer molecules.

Effects of an angiotensin II antagonist on reperfusion arrhythmias in dogs

Losartan, an angiotensin II receptor antagonist with no bradykinin potentiating property, provides the opportunity to study the consequences of blocking angiotensin II. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antiarrhythmic responses of reperfusion arrhythmia to losartan in dogs. The effects of losartan on ventricular tachyarrhythmias induced during occlusion and reperfusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery were investigated in 30 dogs. The animals were randomized to receive either losartan (n = 15) or saline (n = 15). The VF inducing threshold was measured before occlusion and after reperfusion. Losartan (50 micrograms/kg per min) or saline was intravenously administered 5 minutes before occlusion and continued throughout the entire study period. The incidence of ventricular tachyarrhythmias during reperfusion was lower in the losartan group than in the control group (4/15 vs 6/15). There was no significant change in VF inducing threshold between the period before occlusion and during reperfusion in the losartan group [10.9 +/- 5.7 vs 11.1 +/- 5.7 mA, P = NS), whereas there was a significant decrease in the control group (15.5 +/- 4.4 vs 7.7 +/- 3.9 mA, P < 0.01). Blockade of the angiotensin II receptor has beneficial effects on reperfusion arrhythmias.

Behavioral correlates of plasma sex hormones and their relationships with plasma lipids and lipoproteins in Japanese men

In contrast to the hypothesis that endogenous testosterone decreases plasma high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels, many, but not all, studies have reported a positive correlation between plasma total testosterone and HDL cholesterol. We examined behavioral correlates of plasma testosterone and estradiol and the relationships between these sex hormones and plasma lipoproteins, in middle-aged Japanese men. Plasma, lipids, including HDL subfractions, total and free testosterone, and total estradiol were determined with 313 men aged 50-54 years who received a preretirement health examination at the Self-Defence Forces Fukuoka Hospital from January to June in 1992. Body mass index and waist-hip ratio were also measured. Smoking habit, alcohol use, and physical activity were ascertained by a self-administered questionnaire. Obesity, especially waist-hip ratio, was a strong correlate of both total and free testosterone, but not of estradiol. Smoking was associated with elevated levels of testosterone without a dose-effect relation. Neither alcohol use nor physical activity was associated with total or free testosterone, but plasma estradiol levels were higher among current alcohol drinkers. HDL and HDL2 cholesterol were unrelated to either total or free testosterone in the univariate analysis, but negatively associated with free, not total, testosterone after adjustment for obesity. HDL and HDL2 cholesterol also were positively associated with estradiol regardless of adjustment for obesity and other covariates. These findings add to evidence for a hypothesis that high levels of endogenous testosterone and low estradiol levels may cause a decrease in plasma HDL cholesterol, thereby being linked with atherosclerosis in middle aged men.

Hard X-ray microbeam experiment at the Tristan main ring test beamline of the KEK

A hard X-ray microbeam with zone-plate optics has been tested at the MR-BW-TL beamline on the Tristan main ring of the KEK, and preliminary experiments on scanning microscopy have also been performed. A sputtered-sliced Fresnel zone plate with an Au core and Ag/C multilayer is used as an X-ray focusing device. The outermost zone width of the zone plate is 0.25 microm. A focused spot size of approximately 0.5 mum has been achieved at an X-ray energy of 8.54 keV. In a scanning X-ray microscopy experiment, test patterns with submicrometer fine structure have been clearly resolved.

A new procedure for establishing functional monoclonal antibodies capable of inhibiting E- or P-selectin-dependent cell adhesion

Employing a new procedure, we established many monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) which inhibit E- or P-selectin-dependent cell adhesion. One of these mAbs is capable of staining selectin in paraffin-embedded histological sections. The procedure is based on immunization of BALB/c mice with irradiated mouse myeloma NS-1 cells (syngeneic HAT-sensitive fusion partner cells) transfected with cDNA encoding human E- or P-selectin. Resulting NS-1 transfectant cells permanently express human E- or P-selectin as immunogen. The mAbs are useful for detecting selectins by flow cytometric and immunohistological methods, and for inhibiting selectin-dependent adhesion in experimental models. In contrast, the majority of anti-selectin mAbs previously established do not have these capabilities.

Evaluation of the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems in men with intermittent claudication

The authors evaluated elements of the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems in 18 male patients with intermittent claudication vs 19 men matched for risk factors who served as controls. Prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time did not significantly differ in the patients and the controls. The plasminogen level in the two groups was not significantly different. The level of lipoprotein(a) was significantly higher in the patients than in the controls. The levels of antigen and the activity of protein C did not differ significantly between the two groups. The thrombomodulin level was significantly higher in the patients than in the controls. There were no significant differences between the two groups in the levels of alpha 2-macroglobulin, C1-inactivator, or antithrombin III. The levels of fibrinogen and alpha 1-antitrypsin were significantly higher in the patients vs the controls. Significantly lower levels of alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor and higher levels of alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor/plasmin complex and thrombin/antithrombin III complex were found in the patients vs the controls. These findings suggest that the levels of thrombin/antithrombin III complex, alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor/plasmin complex, and thrombomodulin may perhaps serve as indicators for injury to the peripheral endothelium and that the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems may be activated in patients with intermittent claudication.

Disialosyl galactosylgloboside as an adhesion molecule expressed on renal cell carcinoma and its relationship to metastatic potential

Aberrant glycosylation expressed in specific types of human cancer may define stage, direction, and fate of tumor progression. Well-studied examples are expression of sialosyl-Lewis(x) or sialosyl-Lewis(a) in colorectal carcinoma and histo-blood group A and H/Le(y) in lung cancer. In renal cell carcinoma (RCC), expression of sialosyl-Lewis(x) has no correlation with metastatic potential. Clinicopathological studies have revealed that the degree of expression of disialosyl galactosylgloboside (DSGG) and monosialosyl galactosylgloboside is correlated with metastatic potential (to lung and lymph nodes) of RCC and inversely correlated with patient survival. In the present study, we compared the adhesion of RCC lines to sections of various tissues measured by Stamper-Woodruff assay and other similar assays under dynamic flow conditions. Of the eight RCC lines tested, only TOS-1 (which expresses DSGG) bound strongly to lung tissue sections. TOS-1 did not bind to sections of liver, kidney, or lymph nodes. In the same eight RCC lines, we also compared expression of DSGG and monosialosyl galactosylgloboside (reflected by reactivity with RM1 and RM2), overall ganglioside patterns, and correlation with lung tissue-binding ability. Under both static and dynamic flow conditions, the binding of TOS-1 cells to lung alveolar tissue was correlated with their DSGG expression, i.e., the binding was inhibited by RM2 but not by RM1. This binding was also inhibited by sialidase but not by EDTA (i.e., it was CA 2+ independent). The other seven cell lines (TOS-2, TOS-M, SMKT-R1, -R2, -R3, and -R4, and ACHN), which do not express DSGG, showed much weaker adhesion to lung tissue. None of the eight cell lines showed E- or P-selectin-dependent adhesion. These results suggest the existence of a yet-uncharacterized sialoadhesive receptor++ that specifically recognizes DSGG. This receptor could be the binding target in RCC metastasis to lung.

Monosialogangliosides of human myelogenous leukemia HL60 cells and normal human leukocytes. 2. Characterization of E-selectin binding fractions, and structural requirements for physiological binding to E-selectin

E-selectin binding gangliosides were isolated from myelogenous leukemia HL60 cells, and the E-selectin binding pattern was compared with that of human neutrophils as described in the preceding paper in this issue. The binding fractions were identified as monosialogangliosides having a series of unbranched polylactosamine cores. Structures of fractions 12-3, 13-1, 13-2, and 14, which showed clear binding to E-selectin under the conditions described in the preceding paper, were characterized by functional group analysis by application of monoclonal antibodies, 1H-NMR, FAB-MS, and electrospray mass spectrometry with collision-induced dissociation of permethylated fractions. Fractions 12-3, 13-1, and 13-2 were characterized by the presence of a major ganglioside with the following structure: NeuAc alpha 2-->3Gal beta 1-->4 GlcNAc beta 1-->3Gal beta 1-->4(Fuc alpha 1-->3) GlcNAc beta 1-->3Gal beta 1-->4(Fuc alpha 1-->3)-GlcNAc beta 1-->3Gal beta 1-->4GlcNAc beta 1-->3 Gal beta 1-->4 Glc beta Cer. Fractions 12-3 and 13-2 contained, in addition, small quantities (10-15%) of extended SLex with internally fucosylated structures: NeuAc alpha 2-->3 Gal beta 1-->4-(Fuc alpha 1-->3) GlcNAc beta 1-->3 Gal beta 1-->4(Fuc alpha 1-->3) GlcNAc beta 1-->3 Gal beta 1-->4 (+/- Fuc alpha 1-->3)GlcNA c beta 1-->3 Gal beta beta 1-->4GlcNAc beta 1-->3 Gal beta 1-->Glc Beta Cer. Fraction 13-1, showing stronger E-selectin binding activity than 12-3 and 13-2, contained only a trace quantity (< 1%) of SLex. Fraction 14, which also showed clear binding to E-selectin, was characterized by the presence of the following structures, in addition to two internally monofucosylated structures (XX and XXI, Table 2, text): NeuAc alpha 2-->3Gal beta 1-->4GlcNAc beta 1-->3Gal beta 1-->4(Fuc alpha 1-->3)GlcNAc beta 1-->3 Gal beta 1-->4(Fuc alpha 1-->3)GlcNAc beta 1-->3Gal beta 1-->4 GlcNAc beta 1-->3 Gal beta 1-->4 GlcNAc beta 1-->3 Gal beta 1-->4 Glc beta Cer; andNeuAc alpha 2-->3Gal beta 1-->4GlcNAc beta 1-->3 Gal beta 1-->4(Fuc alpha 1-->3)GlcNAc beta 1-->3Gal beta 1-->4GlcNAc beta 1-->3Gal beta 1-->4 (Fuc alpha 1--3)-GlcNAc beta 1-->3Gal beta 1-->4GlcNAc beta 1-->3Gal beta 1--4Glc beta Cer. SLex determinant was completely absent. Thus, the E-selectin binding epitope in HL60 cells is carried by unbranched terminally alpha 2-->3 sialylated polylactosamine having at least 10 monosaccharide units (4 N-acetyllactosamine units) with internal multiple fucosylation at GlcNAc. These structures are hereby collectively called "myeloglycan". Monosialogangliosides from normal human neutrophils showed an essentially identical pattern of gangliosides with selectin binding property. Myeloglycan, rather than SLex, provides a major physiological epitope in E-selectin-dependent binding of leukocytes and HL60 cells.

Monosialogangliosides of human myelogenous leukemia HL60 cells and normal human leukocytes. 1. Separation of E-selectin binding from nonbinding gangliosides, and absence of sialosyl-Le(x) having tetraosyl to octaosyl core

Previous studies suggested that sialosyl-Le(x) (SLex) is a ligand expressed in human neutrophils and myelogenous leukemia HL60 cells which binds to E-selectin and possibly P-selectin. However, clear data on structures of carbohydrate epitopes in these cells were lacking. A systematic study was therefore initiated, employing a large quantity of HL60 cells (> or = 1200 mL packed) and human leukocytes (approximately 100 mL packed). Gangliosides were extracted, followed by extensive fractionation and examination of the E- and P-selectin binding ability of each fraction. The following results were of particular interest: (i) Only monosialogangliosides having a polylactosamine core with > 10 monosaccharide units (or > 4 N-acetyllactosamine units) showed E-selectin binding under static conditions with thin-layer chromatography overlay technique employing 32P-labeled E-selectin-expressing CHO cells. (ii) Sulfate groups were not detectable in the binding fractions, and di- and trisialoganglioside fractions did not show E-selectin binding under these conditions. (iii) None of the fractions showed P-selectin binding under a similar assay system using 32P-labeled P-selectin-expressing CHO cells. (iv) Major gangliosides of HL60 cells were structures I-XI (shown in Table 1 of text), none of which showed E-selectin binding under the above conditions. (v) SLex gangliosides having tetraosyl to octaosyl ceramide core, which are the major gangliosides of epithelial tumors (shown in Table 2), were completely absent from HL60 cells and neutrophils. Isolation and chemical characterization of ganglioside structures I-XI are described in this paper.

Myeloglycan, a series of E-selectin-binding polylactosaminolipids found in normal human leukocytes and myelocytic leukemia HL60 cells

Sialosyl-Lex (SLex) is assumed to be the binding epitope of E- and P-selectin in normal human neutrophils and myelocytic leukemia HL60 cells. Glycosphingolipid (GSL) fractions from large quantities of normal human neutrophils and HL60 cell extract did not contain SLex GSLs having 6-10 sugar residues, as commonly found in solid tumor cells and tissues. Instead, the binding target of E-selectin was revealed to be a series of long-chain, unbranched polylactosamine GSLs with terminally sialylated, internally alpha 1-->3 polyfucosylated structure as the major component, or having SLex at the terminus and internally polyfucosylated structure as a minor component. These GSLs are hereby collectively termed "myeloglycan." Regardless of the site of fucosylation, all myeloglycans cross-react strongly with "anti-SLex" monoclonal antibodies such as CSLEX, FH6, SNH3, and SNH4.

Serum glycoproteins and severity of coronary atherosclerosis

The relation of serum glycoproteins and C-reactive protein (CRP) to severity of coronary atherosclerosis was examined in 133 men and 92 women undergoing coronary angiography. The following serum glycoproteins were determined: alpha 1-antitrypsin, alpha 1-acid glycoprotein, alpha 2-macroglobulin, ceruloplasmin, haptoglobin, fibrinogen, C4b binding protein, and lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)]. Sex- and age-adjusted levels of alpha 1-antitrypsin, alpha 1-acid glycoproteins, alpha 2-macroglobulin, ceruloplasmin, Lp(a) and CRP were significantly associated with the severity of coronary atherosclerosis as determined by the Gensini score; these associations remained significant even after adjustment for body-mass index, smoking history, hypertension, and total cholesterol, except for Lp(a) (p = 0.075). These findings suggest that certain serum glycoproteins and CRP can serve as independent indicators for the progression of coronary atherosclerosis.

Relationship of cigarette smoking to the severity of coronary and thoracic aortic atherosclerosis

We studied the relationship of cigarette smoking to the severity of coronary and thoracic aortic atherosclerosis in 116 men who received coronary angiography and transesophageal echocardiography. Severity of coronary atherosclerosis was assessed in terms of Gensini's score (GS), and that of thoracic aortic atherosclerosis was assessed by the average sclerotic length (ASL) and average sclerotic area (ASA). The plasma fibrinogen levels were significantly positively correlated with smoking, and fasting blood sugar levels tended to be positively associated with smoking. GS was inversely associated with serum levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. ASL and ASA were positively associated with age, fasting blood sugar levels and plasma fibrinogen levels, and these associations were statistically significant. Analysis of covariance was used to examine the net association between cigarette smoking and GS, ASL or ASA controlling for age, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, fasting blood sugar and plasma fibrinogen. We found that GS, ASL, and ASA were all significantly increased with increasing number of cigarette years. Additional adjustment for other risk factors (triglyceride, uric acid, body mass index, alcohol use and hypertension) also showed a strong independent contribution of smoking to GS, ASL and ASA. We concluded that the cumulative exposure to cigarette smoking was an independent indicator of the severity of coronary atherosclerosis as well as thoracic aortic atherosclerosis.

Relationship of alcohol consumption and smoking to plasma cortisol and blood pressure

The role of plasma cortisol in the relationship of alcohol consumption and smoking with BP was investigated in a study of 297 Japanese men, aged 50-54 years, who were not receiving antihypertensive agents. They were admitted to the Self-Defense Forces Fukuoka Hospital between January and June 1992 for a detailed pre-retirement health examination. A history of alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking were determined from a self-administered questionnaire. The plasma level of cortisol and BP were determined in the morning of the first admission day. While the plasma level of cortisol was positively related to systolic and diastolic BP, cortisol levels did not vary substantially with alcohol consumption. Both BP and plasma cortisol levels were lower among current smokers than nonsmokers. The lower BP observed among current smokers was ascribed in part (about 20-30%) to the plasma cortisol levels. While the cortisol levels may contribute the lower BP among current smokers, the data did not support its role in mediating the alcohol-BP relationship.

Mapping local and systemic symptom determinants of cucumber mosaic cucumovirus in tobacco

Cucumber mosaic cucumovirus (CMV) can be divided into two subgroups, I and II. LS-CMV and most other subgroup II strains cause a mild, systemic mottle on tobacco and can induce a necrotic etching (necrotic rings) symptom on inoculated tobacco leaves. In contrast, Fny-CMV and most other subgroup I strains cause severe, systemic mosaic symptoms on tobacco, but do not induce the necrotic etching symptom. Full-length cDNA clones of all three genomic RNAs of LS-CMV were constructed and infectious RNAs were generated from these clones. Using pseudorecombinants constructed from the infectious transcripts of LS-CMV and Fny-CMV, we found that both RNAs 1 and 2 of Fny-CMV are involved in determining the severity of systemic symptom on tobacco, and that LS-CMV RNA 3 contains the determinant for the necrotic etching symptom. Chimeras formed between Fny- and LS-CMV RNA 3 were used to demonstrate that the inducer of the necrotic etching symptoms mapped to the 5' 618 nucleotides of LS-CMV RNA 3, and required sequences in both the 5' non-translated region, as well as the 3a gene of CMV.

Species-specific expression of sialosyl-Le(x) on polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN), in relation to selectin-dependent PMN responses

Sialosyl-Le(x) (SLex) and its positional isomer sialosyl-Le(a) are the epitopes recognized by the lectin domain of E- and P-selectins. Expression of SLex in polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) plays an important role in recruitment of these cells at sites of inflammation through activation of selectins. We studied expression of SLex in PMN of seven mammalian species in comparison with that in humans. Only PMN of humans (no other species) expressed SLex or other lacto-series epitopes such as Le(x) or Le(y). The observed absence of these epitopes in rat PMN seems inconsistent with recent reports that the lung inflammation process in a rat model is inhibited by perfusion of SLex oligosaccharide (Mulligan MS, et al. (1993a) Nature 364:149; (1993b) J Exp Med 178:623). Rat selectins may be able to recognize SLex, even though this epitope is absent in rat PMN.

A characteristics protein highly expressed in guinea pig inner ear, defined by monoclonal antibody WH-1

A new monoclonal antibody (termed WH-1; isotype IgG2b) was established using a homogenate of dissected guinea pig cochleas (N = 60) as immunogen. Western blotting and sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) identified the WH-1 antigen as a protein or glycoprotein with M(r) approximately 40 kDa. Immunoperoxidase treatment of histologic cryosections of guinea pig cochlea, followed by light microscopic examination, revealed strong positive staining at three sites: (i) parts of Hensen's stripe, marginal band, covering net, and Kimura's membrane (within the tectorial membrane [TM]); (ii) Deiters' cells, pillar cells, Hensen's cells, and stereocilia of outer hair cells (within the organ of Corti); (iii) interdental cells, inner and outer sulcus cells, Reissner's membrane, and surface membrane of stria vascularis epithelium. Similar staining patterns were observed for cryosections of rat and mouse cochleas. Only a trace quantity of cross-reacting protein was detectable in brainstem. The protein was not detectable in tongue extract by Western blotting. However, sections of brainstem and tongue did show positive immunohistological staining with WH-1. Localization of WH-1 antigen was further examined by electron microscopy. WH-1 positivity on outer hair cell stereocilia, certain sites on the TM, interdental cell surface, Reissner's membrane epithelia, and inner and outer sulcus cells was confirmed. WH-1 antigen was not detected on inner hair cell stereocilia by light or electron microscopy. The localization of WH-1 antigen on outer hair cell stereocilia and TM suggests that it may play some role in adhesion between these structures.

Plasmin and thrombin inhibitors in essentially untreated patients with coronary artery spasm

We examined activities or levels of plasmin and thrombin inhibitors in essentially untreated patients with angiographically documented coronary artery spasm. The patients received the ergonovine malate provocation test and were classified into two groups: (a) those with significant coronary artery spasm that produced reduction of the internal luminal diameter of 50% or greater with chest pain and change of electrocardiography (n = 18), and (b) those without coronary artery spasm (n = 17). There was no significant differences in alpha 1-antitrypsin and alpha 2-macroglobulin levels, and C1-inactivator activity between the control and patients with coronary artery spasm. On the other hand, the lower antithrombin III and alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor activities were noted in patients with coronary artery spasm than the control. Thrombin/antithrombin III complex and alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor/plasmin complex levels were significantly higher in coronary artery spasm patients. These results suggest that the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems may maintain their equilibrium in untreated patients with coronary artery spasm.

[Population-based comparative study on dietary habits and serum fatty acid compositions]

Appropriate dietary instruction on fat intake is required for Japanese to prevent coronary heart disease because there has been a consistent increase in fat intake during the past two decades. To gain fundamental information for dietary instruction, we examined the relation between dietary habits related to fat and serum fatty acid compositions in women aged 40-69 of four Japanese populations (fishing, coastal farming, inland farming and urban populations) and a Caucasian population in which different dietary habits have been reported. Among Japanese, dietary intake of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids (in particular omega 6-polyunsaturated fatty acid) were higher in the urban population than in the other populations. Intake of omega 3-polyunsaturated fatty acids did not vary among the Japanese populations, but intakes of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid were higher in fishing and coastal farming populations than in the other two populations. Serum concentrations and compositions of omega 6-polyunsaturated fatty acids (mostly linoleic acid) were higher in the urban and inland farming populations than in the other two populations whereas those of omega 3-polyunsaturated fatty acids (in particular eicosapentaenoic acid) showed the opposite trend. The proportion of omega 6-polyunsaturated fatty acids was higher and that of omega 3-polyunsaturated fatty acids was lower in Caucasian women than in the Japanese populations. The ratio of omega 3 (polyunsaturated fatty acids) to omega 6 was highest in the fishing population (ratio = 0.38), intermediate in coastal farming (0.35), urban (0.27) and inland farming (0.24) populations, and lowest in Caucasians (0.07). Within populations, the percentage of serum omega 6-polyunsaturated fatty acids increased with the increase of frequency of meat intake and oil intake. The percentage of serum omega 3-polyunsaturated fatty acids increased with the increase in frequency of fish intake. Because there are evident associations between the frequency of fish, meat and oil intake and serum fatty acid compositions, a frequency questionnaire on these foods would be useful for dietary instruction in the prevention of coronary heart disease.

[Study of pathophysiology of pulmonary circulation in polycythemia using scintigraphy]

In order to evaluate the pathophysiology of pulmonary circulation in polycythemia, Tl-201 myocardial scintigraphy and perfusion lung scintigraphy with 99m-Tc MAA were performed in 19 cases with polycythemia including polycythemia rubra vera and in 11 cases with secondary polycythemia due to pulmonary diseases. Tl-201 lung uptake, right ventricular visualization and pulmonary perfusion impairment were studied. In the 19 cases, Tl-201 lung uptake was observed in all cases and 54.5% of them showed moderate lung uptake. The grade of right ventricular visualization was moderate in one case and slight in 16 cases; right ventricular hypertrophy was shown in 89.5% of all cases by Tl-201 scintigraphy, only one of which showed right ventricular hypertrophy on electrocardiography. Abnormalities of lung perfusion consisted of scattered small areas of hypoperfusion in 36.8%, peripheral hypoperfusion in 78.9% and uneven distribution of pulmonary perfusion in 94.7%. The degree of hypoperfusion was slightly related to decrease in FEV1.0%, V25 and PaO2 and increase in circulating blood volume and peripheral red blood cell counts. Abnormalities of pulmonary function consisted of increased RV/TLC in 50.0%, increased CV/VC in 35.7% and decreased V25 in 36.8%. Arterial blood gases showed hypoxemia in 57.1%, the degree of which was slightly related to increase in RV/TLC and CV/VC and decrease in V25. Cases of secondary polycythemia due to pulmonary diseases showed more marked right ventricular visualization, pulmonary perfusion impairment and abnormalities of various kinds of pulmonary function than polycythemia rubra vera cases.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

[Study on the oral health status of schoolchildren in Korea]

In 1992, dental health examination was conducted in three areas in Korea; Seoul (large city), Cheonan (rural city) and Cheongju (water fluoridated rural city). We also examined the children of Tokyo in Japan. The subjects were the schoolchildren in the 6th grade of primary school and the 3rd grade of junior high school, and the number of the subjects was 202 in Seoul, 191 in Cheonan, 164 in Cheongju and 152 in Tokyo. We compared the oral health status among these four areas using many indices such as the prevalence rate of dental caries and malocclusion, DMFT, DMFS, DI-S and P-M-A index. In Korea the children in Seoul showed the highest caries prevalence rate, DMFT and DMFS. The Cheonan children were average. The children in Cheongju had the lowest caries experience. The children in Tokyo had more dental caries than the Korean children in both school grades. The children in Tokyo had more gingivitis and malocclusion than the Korean children in the three areas. It was revealed that the oral health status of the Korean schoolchildren was much better than the Japanese children. And water fluoridation project in Cheongju was effective to prevent the dental caries especially in the 6th grade children.

Prediction of protein secondary structure by the hidden Markov model

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a new method for analyzing the amino acid sequences of proteins using the hidden Markov model (HMM), which is a type of stochastic model. Secondary structures such as helix, sheet and turn are learned by HMMs, and these HMMs are applied to new sequences whose structures are unknown. The output probabilities from the HMMs are used to predict the secondary structures of the sequences. The authors tested this prediction system on approximately 100 sequences from a public database (Brookhaven PDB). Although the implementation is 'without grammar' (no rule for the appearance patterns of secondary structure) the result was reasonable.

[Right ventricular visualization by Tl-201 myocardial scintigraphy in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease]

Tl-201 myocardial scintigraphy was performed in 130 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to evaluate right ventricular hypertrophy, and the clinical significance of this method was studied. Tl-201 uptake ratio of the right ventricle, which represents the ratio of total counts of the right ventricle to counts of the administered dose of Tl-201, was higher in COPD, especially in pulmonary emphysema and B type COPD by Burrows classification than in controls. The grade of visualization of the right ventricle by visual assessment (RVV) was marked (+3) in only a few cases and moderate (+2) in many cases (more than 80%) in all diseases except bronchial asthma. The incidences of right ventricular hypertrophy by electrocardiogram, right-sided heart failure and marked dyspnea (Hugh-Jones 4.5) were very low in cases with RVV grade +2 and very high in cases with +3. The grade of RVV was related to the severity of pulmonary perfusion impairment, although in diffuse panbronchiolitis the RVV was relatively slight compared with the impairment of perfusion. May parameters of pulmonary function such as %VC, FEV1.0%, RV/TLC, V25, %DLCO, Raw, delta N2 and PaO2 showed abnormal values in patients with RVV grade of (+2) or (+3) in all diseases except bronchial asthma. In COPD, Tl-201 myocardial scintigraphy seems to be useful for assessment of right ventricular overloading, and for follow-up observation and differentiation between cor pulmonale and right ventricular hypertrophy secondary to cardiac diseases by observing Tl-201 uptake of the lung and left ventricle.

Detection of a point mutation in cholesteryl ester transfer protein gene by polymerase chain reaction-mediated site-directed mutagenesis

We describe a method for the rapid and non-radioactive examination of DNA samples for a mutation of cholesteryl ester transfer protein using a polymerase chain reaction-mediated site-directed mutagenesis. CETP deficiencies were studied in 554 Japanese subjects (370 men, 184 women) aged between 18 and 91 (mean 48.3 years). By this method, we detected one homozygote and 3 heterozygotes of the CETP deficiency.

Multi-recognition capability of E-selectin in a dynamic flow system, as evidenced by differential effects of sialidases and anti-carbohydrate antibodies on selectin-mediated cell adhesion at low vs. high wall shear stress: a preliminary note

E-selectin has a "multi-recognition" capability in terms of epitope binding specificity, depending on adhesion conditions (static vs. low- or high-shear stress dynamic systems). Specifically, (i) adhesion based on expression of alpha 2-->3 sialylated Le(x) (SLe(x)) is prominent under static or low shear stress dynamic conditions; (ii) adhesion under high shear stress dynamic conditions does not depend on the known SLe(x) species, but rather on Lex with an adjacent unidentified sialosyl substitution, which shows different susceptibility to sialidases and antibodies compared to known SLe(x).

A multicenter comparison of nicorandil and diltiazem on serum lipid, apolipoprotein, and lipoprotein levels in patients with ischemic heart disease

The effects of nicorandil and diltiazem on serum lipid, apolipoprotein, and lipoprotein levels in 37 patients with ischemic heart disease were examined in a randomized, multicenter study. Nicorandil (n = 20, 10-40 mg/day, b.i.d.) and diltiazem (n = 17, 60-240 mg/day, b.i.d.) were administered for 12 weeks. Both nicorandil and diltiazem administration showed an effective antianginal effect. Diltiazem administration showed a significant hypotensive action. There were no significant changes in serum lipids, apolipoproteins, and lipoproteins for both nicorandil and diltiazem. There were no significant changes in body weight, uric acid, and fasting blood sugar levels during the test period for both drugs. These data show that nicorandil, like diltiazem, does not have any adverse effects on lipid metabolism and that it is a favorable drug to use as an agent for treating arteriosclerotic heart disease.

[Evaluation of school dental health activities in Hiraizumi primary school, Iwate prefecture]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the health activities in Hiraizumi primary school, Iwate prefecture. As a result of intensive dental health activities from 1978 to 1990, which consisted of tooth brushing instruction by class, dental education for the schoolchildren and their guardians, utilization of fluoride mouth rinsing (once a week), and, by following a model school of caries prevention designated by the Ministry of Education et al., the oral health status of the Hiraizumi primary schoolchildren improved significantly compared with those of the Ohya primary schoolchildren who followed the routine school dental health activities. The results of questionnaires, taken from both primary schoolchildren in 1986 and 1989, show that the oral health behavior of the Hiraizumi primary schoolchildren also improved.

Cell adhesion in a dynamic flow system as compared to static system. Glycosphingolipid-glycosphingolipid interaction in the dynamic system predominates over lectin- or integrin-based mechanisms in adhesion of B16 melanoma cells to non-activated endothelial cells

Initial adhesion of B16 melanoma variants to non-activated endothelial cells is mediated through specific interaction between GM3 (NeuAc alpha 2----3Gal beta 1----4Glc beta 1----Cer) expressed on melanoma cells and lactosylceramide (LacCer, Gal beta 1----4Glc beta 1----Cer) expressed on endothelial cells. This adhesion is predominant over integrin- or lectin-mediated adhesion in a dynamic flow experimental system employing a parallel plate laminar flow chamber (Lawrence, M. B., Smith, C. W., Eskin, S. G., and McIntire, L. V. (1990) Blood 75, 227-237). In this system, a tumor cell suspension flows over a glass plate coated with glycosphingolipid, lectin, or fibronectin, and adhesion is recorded on videotape. These conditions were designed to mimic the microvascular environment in which tumor metastatic deposition takes place. In contrast, lectin- and fibronectin-based mechanisms are predominant in previously used static adhesion systems. Under static conditions, the relative degree of adhesion of the four B16 variants to endothelial cells or to LacCer-coated plates was the same as their relative degree of GM3 expression (i.e. BL6 approximately F10 greater than F1 greater than WA4), and adhesion was inhibited in the presence of methyl-beta-lactoside, or liposomes containing LacCer or GM3. Adhesion was also inhibited by pretreatment of B16 cells with anti-GM3 antibody DH2 or sialidase and by pretreatment of endothelial cells with anti-LacCer antibody T5A7. Under dynamic flow conditions, WA4 cells did not adhere to mouse endothelial cells at high shear stress (greater than 2.5 dynes/cm2) but did adhere at lower shear stress. In contrast, BL6 and F10 cells adhered strongly at both low and high shear stress. BL6 cell adhesion to endothelial cells at both low and high shear stress was inhibited in the presence of antibody DH2, ethyl-beta-lactoside, or lactose, as well as by pretreatment of BL6 cells with sialidase. Thus, some clear differences, as well as similarities, in cell adhesion under static versus dynamic conditions are demonstrated. These findings suggest that melanoma cell adhesion to endothelial cells, based on GM3/LacCer interaction, initiates metastatic deposition, which may trigger a series of "cascade" reactions leading to activation of endothelial cells and expression of Ig family or selectin receptors, thereby promoting adhesion and migration of tumor cells.

Effects of arotinolol on exercise capacity and humoral factors during exercise in normal subjects

A placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover study was undertaken in 10 normal subjects to examine the effects of arotinolol (10 mg bid), a nonselective beta blocker with alpha-blocking activity, on exercise capacity and hormone levels during exercise after a 2-week treatment period. Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) and blood lactic acid concentration (LA) were measured during progressive exercise testing. An exercise intensity equivalent to 4 mmol/l of LA was used for the constant workload exercise test. Humoral factors were measured after 20 minutes of constant workload exercise. The administration of arotinolol significantly decreased systolic blood pressure and heart rate at rest and during exercise, but diastolic blood pressure did not change. No significant difference was found between arotinolol and placebo with regard to VO2 max and maximal workload. Plasma renin activity (PRA), aldosterone (PAC), and norepinephrine (NE) levels at rest and during exercise did not differ between the two treatments. In contrast, plasma epinephrine (EN) levels at rest and during exercise were significantly greater with arotinolol. Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) at rest did not differ between the two treatments. However, exercise caused a significant increase in ANP after arotinolol treatment. These findings suggest that arotinolol decreases blood pressure and heart rate without affecting exercise capacity.

[Clinical significance of scintigraphy in pulmonary aspergilloma]

In order to study the scintigraphic findings related to the pathophysiology of pulmonary aspergilloma, chest scintigraphy with T1-201 chloride and perfusion lung scintigraphy were performed in 18 and 19 patients with pulmonary aspergilloma, respectively. In T1-201 scintigraphy, accumulation of T1-201 in the diseased areas related to Aspergillus infection was observed in 18 of 19 foci. Roentgenographic findings related to the accumulation of T1-201 in the lesion were thickness of the cavity wall and pleural thickening adjacent to the cavity, but they showed no relation to the size of the fungus ball, and 2 cases without fungus ball showed positive results. Moreover, in T1-201 single photon emission computed tomography, accumulation of T1-201 was demonstrated in the area surrounding fungus ball. In addition, findings of inflammation such as leukocytosis, elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, positive CRP and fever were observed in more than 50% of all cases. These results suggest that tissues surrounding the fungus ball, including the cavity wall and thickened pleura undergo inflammatory process secondary to infection by Aspergillus. Perfusion lung scintigrams showed decreased perfusion in all of 19 cases, which was more marked than that expected from the chest radiograph in many cases. In T1-201 myocardial scintigraphy, visualization of the right ventricle was observed in 15 of 18 cases. T1-201 chest scintigraphy and perfusion lung scintigraphy are useful for evaluation of the activity of the disease process, right ventricular overloading, and regional perfusion in pulmonary aspergilloma.

Effects of niceritrol on levels of serum lipids, lipoprotein(a), and fibrinogen in patients with primary hypercholesterolemia

Thirty-three consecutive unselected patients with primary hypercholesterolemia received niceritrol 1.5 g daily for 12 weeks, with the effect of administering divided dose (twice daily (b.i.d.) and three times daily (t.i.d.)) evaluated. The serum concentrations of lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)), lipids, the major apolipoproteins (apo), cholesteryl ester transfer activity and fibrinogen were determined before and after treatment. The b.i.d. and t.i.d. regimens each significantly reduced the serum levels of total cholesterol and triglyceride. The mean changes in serum lipids and lipoproteins did not differ significantly between the two groups. After 12 weeks of treatment, there was a significant decrease in total plasma cholesterol, triglyceride, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, apo A-II, apo B and fibrinogen and an increase in the high density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Although the serum level of Lp(a) did not change in every patient, niceritrol significantly reduced the serum Lp(a) level in those with an initially high level of Lp(a) (greater than or equal to 20 mg/dl).

Lifestyles, glucose tolerance and blood pressure in male self-defence officials in northern Kyushu, Japan

Evidence on determinants of BP is mostly derived from studies in western populations. The relationship of BP with lifestyle variables and glucose tolerance was studied in 1,302 male self-defence officials aged 49-56 years who received a health examination before retirement at the Self-Defense Forces Fukuoka Hospital from October 1986 to December 1988. Those with treated hypertension or diabetes mellitus and those with conditions affecting BP levels were excluded from the study. In multiple regression analysis, alcohol use, body mass index and glucose intolerance were strongly associated with elevated BP while there was an inverse relation between cigarette smoking and BP. Physical activity expressed as the time spent in vigorous exercise was not associated with either systolic or diastolic BP. These findings indicate that alcohol use, obesity and glucose intolerance are also important determinants of BP in male Japanese, and that cigarette smoking is a potential covariate in the study of BP.

Inhibition of selectin-dependent tumor cell adhesion to endothelial cells and platelets by blocking O-glycosylation of these cells

Expression of sialosyl-Le(x) (SLe(x)) and sialosyl-Le(a) (SLe(a)) on tumor cell lines HL60, Colo205, and U937 was greatly suppressed by application of benzyl-alpha-GalNAc for inhibition of O-linked carbohydrate chain extension, which resulted in reduced adhesion of tumor cells to activated endothelial cells or platelets mediated by ELAM-1 (E-selectin) or GMP-140 (P-selectin). Inhibitors or modifiers of N-glycosylation had no effect on expression of SLe(x) or SLe(a) in these tumor cells. These findings suggest the possibility that targeting of O-glycosylation inhibitors or modifiers to tumor cells may effectively suppress metastatic potential.

Administration of slow-release nifedipine does not affect lactate threshold, hormone release during exercise, and quality of life in normal subjects

In a double-blind crossover study of 10 normal healthy subjects, we examined the effects of slow-release nifedipine (nifedipine-SR, 10 mg b.i.d) administration on exercise capacity, hormone levels during exercise, and quality of life (QOL) after a 2-week treatment. Two exercise tests, a progressive exercise test and a constant work-rate exercise test, were performed. Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and blood lactate concentration were measured during the progressive exercise test and the exercise intensity corresponding to half lactate threshold (LT), LT, and 4 mmol/l of lactate concentration was determined. Subjects underwent 20 minutes of constant work-rate exercise at each work load, and blood lactate, plasma epinephrine, plasma norepinephrine, plasma renin activity, plasma aldosterone, atrial natriuretic peptide, plasma beta-endorphin, and met-enkephalin were measured. Taking nifedipine-SR had no effect on the responses of blood pressure, heart rate, VO2max, maximal work load, and LT compared to taking placebo. Blood lactate, plasma catecholamine, plasma renin activity, aldosterone, atrial natriuretic peptide, and beta-endorphin levels increased during exercise, and there was no difference between nifedipine-SR and placebo. Met-enkephalin did not increase with either treatment. In the QOL questionnaires, no differences were noted between the two treatments. These findings suggest nifedipine-SR to be a potentially useful drug in view of the lack of effect on exercise capacity, hormone release, and QOL.

Selectin GMP-140 (CD62; PADGEM) binds to sialosyl-Le(a) and sialosyl-Le(x), and sulfated glycans modulate this binding

GMP-140 (CD62; PADGEM) is a member of the selectin family expressed highly at the surface of platelets and endothelial cells by agonists such as thrombin or phorbol esters. Previous studies indicate that the lectin domain of GMP-140 recognizes sialosyl-Le(x) (SLex) and to a lesser extent Le(x) (Polley MJ, et al., Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 88:6224, 1991). We now report that GMP-140 binds to sialosyl Lea (SLea) and to SLex, and that degree of binding to SLea is greater than that to SLex under our experimental conditions. Binding of activated platelets to SLea or SLex was inhibited to various degrees in the presence of sulfated glycans, suggesting that sulfated glycans induce conformational change in the lectin domain of GMP-140 and modulates its binding affinity to SLea and SLex.