Spatial- and task-dependent neuronal responses during real and virtual translocation in the monkey hippocampal formation

Neuropsychological data in humans demonstrated a pivotal role of the medial temporal lobe, including the hippocampal formation (HF) and the parahippocampal gyrus (PH), in allocentric (environment-centered) spatial learning and memory. In the present study, the functional significance of the monkey HF and PH neurons in allocentric spatial processing was analyzed during performance of the spatial tasks. In the tasks, the monkey either freely moved to one of four reward areas in the experimental field by driving a cab that the monkey rode (real translocation task) or freely moved a pointer to one of four reward areas on the monitor (virtual translocation task) by manipulating a joystick. Of 389 neurons recorded from the monkey HF and PH, 166 had place fields that displayed increased activity in a specific area in the experimental field and/or on the monitor (location-differential neurons). More HF and PH neurons responded in the real translocation task. These neurons had low mean spontaneous firing rates (0.96 spikes/sec), similar to those of rodent HF place cells. The remaining nonresponsive neurons had significantly higher mean firing rates (8. 39 spikes/sec), similar to interneurons or theta cells in the rodent HF. Furthermore, most location-differential neurons showed different responses in different tasks. These results suggest that the HF and PH are crucial in allocentric information processing and, moreover, that the HF can encode different reference frames that are context or task-dependent. This may be the neural basis of episodic memory.

A plasmid-mediated beta-lactamase with carbapenem-hydrolyzing activity from Serratia marcescens

Serratia marcescens W-313/pSW313 was isolated from a clinical specimen that showed resistance to various beta-lactams. beta-Lactamase from this strain hydrolyzed oxyiminocephalosporins and carbapenems, but did not hydrolyze 2-carboxypenam and aztreonam. The kinetic parameters of this enzyme were similar to those of the carbapenem-hydrolyzing beta-lactamases mediated by R-plasmid from Pseudomonas aeruginosa and S. marcescens, whose properties were previously reported.

Involvement of cytosolic NAD+ glycohydrolase in cyclic ADP-ribose metabolism

The NAD+ glycohydrolase homogeneously purified from bovine brain cytosol was found to catalyze the synthesis and hydrolysis of cyclic ADP-ribose (cADPR). Although the formation of cADPR from NAD+ does not exceed about 2% of the reaction products, the cyclase activity is clearly evidenced by its conversion of NGD+ to cyclic GDP-ribose (cGDPR), which cannot be hydrolyzed to GDPR. Importantly, a steep increase in cADPR hydrolytic activity was observed at cADPR concentrations above 60 microM, which could be reproduced on a Hill curve with a Hill coefficient of 2. Thus, the allosteric binding of cADPR to the NAD+ glycohydrolase (E) molecule promotes the hydrolysis of cADPR. These results suggest that NAD+ hydrolysis to ADPR and nicotinamide catalyzed by the NAD+ glycohydrolase occurs through the formation of a cADPR. E. cADP-ribosyl complex. The low production of cADPR by NAD+ glycohydrolase compared with invertebrate ADP-ribosyl cyclase is believed to be attributable to the fast hydrolysis of cADPR by the allosteric effect of cADPR bound to the same enzyme that produces it.

An increased ratio of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist to interleukin-1alpha in inflammatory skin diseases

IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) is a cytokine that competitively binds the IL-1 receptor to antagonize IL-1 activity without any agonist function. Previous experiments indicated that the ratio of IL-1ra to IL-1alpha in the normal stratum corneum (SC) was much higher in the sun-exposed face than in the sun-protected area, upper arms. It was also reported by another laboratory that IL-1ra is increased in the lesional skin of psoriatic patients. This study was designed to measure the contents of IL-1alpha and IL-1ra in non-lesional and pathological SC obtained from inflammatory skin diseases including psoriasis and non-psoriatic dermatoses such as atopic dermatitis. The SC materials were obtained with a non-invasive tape-stripping method. Their soluble fractions were prepared and assayed for IL-1alpha and IL-1ra by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. As a result we confirmed the previous findings that the ratio of IL-1ra to IL-1alpha in the normal SC was much higher in the face than in the sun-protected sites, the trunk as well as extremities. Next, we found that IL-1alpha contents were significantly reduced in the SC samples obtained from inflammatory skin regardless of whether their IL-1ra contents increased or unchanged. Moreover, we noted that an increased ratio of IL-1ra to IL-1alpha in the SC was not specific to psoriasis, but was also found in other inflammatory skin diseases including atopic dermatitis. This ratio was found to become lower after successful treatment of these skin lesions with topical glucocorticoids. We conclude from these observations that the increased ratio of IL-1ra to IL-1alpha in the SC is a non-specific phenomenon that can occur in any inflammatory skin diseases regardless of the inflammatory pattern, probably reflecting a skin regulation process against various kinds of inflammation.

Intracranial germinoma associated with Down's syndrome. Report of 2 cases

It is well known that Down's syndrome is sometimes associated with leukemia. However, there have been only a few case reports of a relationship between Down's syndrome and brain tumors. We report 2 cases with histological diagnoses of germinoma. The 1st case was a 10-year-old boy with Down's syndrome complaining of seizure and left hemiparesis. Computed tomographic (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a mass lesion in the right basal ganglia and thalamus. Histological examination indicated two cell pattern germinomas. The 2nd case was a 20-year-old man with Down's syndrome complaining of headache and vomiting. CT scan and MRI showed a pineal region tumor with marked hydrocephalus. Surgical specimens showed typical germinoma. Only 13 cases of brain tumors associated with Down's syndrome have been reported. A higher incidence of germ cell tumors seems to be related to chromosomal abnormalities.

Antidiabetic principles of natural medicines. III. Structure-related inhibitory activity and action mode of oleanolic acid glycosides on hypoglycemic activity

We examined the structure-related activity of oleanolic acid glycosides with respect to their inhibitory effect on the increase in serum glucose in oral glucose-loaded rats and their mechanism of action using oleanolic acid 3-O-glucuronide and momordin Ic. Both the 3-O-monodesmoside structure and 28-carboxyl group were confirmed to be essential for such activity, and the 3-O-glucuronide was more potent than 3-O-glucoside. On the other hand, the 28-ester glucoside moiety and 6'-methyl ester of the glucuronide moiety reduced such activity. Oleanolic acid 3-O-glucuronide and momordin Ic, both of which inhibited the increase in serum glucose in oral glucose-loaded rats, did not lower serum glucose in normal or intraperitoneal glucose-loaded rats, or alloxan-induced diabetic mice. These glycosides were found to suppress gastric emptying in rats, and also inhibit glucose uptake in the rat small intestine in vitro. These results indicate that oleanolic acid 3-O-glucuronide and momordin Ic, given orally, have neither insulin-like activity nor insulin releasing-activity. They exhibit their hypoglycemic activity by suppressing the transfer of glucose from the stomach to the small intestine and by inhibiting glucose transport at the brush border of the small intestine.

A case of small pancreatic cancer diagnosed by serial follow-up studies promptly by a positive K-ras point mutation in pure pancreatic juice

We report a 74-yr-old woman who was referred to our hospital because of abdominal fullness. ERP showed a questionable irregularity of the main pancreatic duct at the body. Examination of pure pancreatic juice was positive for K-ras point mutation at codon 12 and negative for cytology. Because neither US nor CT showed apparent lesions in the pancreas, we decided to follow up the patient with serial ERP and pure pancreatic juice studies at 3-month intervals. No changes had been seen up to 18 months later, when cytology was conclusive for malignancy with an apparent stenosis of the main pancreatic duct at the body. Distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy was performed. A round mass, 12 mm in diameter, was found in the body, which proved to be an adenocarcinoma at histological examination. No extrapancreatic extension and metastases were noted. Although positive K-ras point mutation has been reported in some cases of adenoma or mucinous cell hyperplasia of the pancreas and chronic pancreatitis, our case, along with previous reports, indicated the importance of testing K-ras point mutation in pure pancreatic juices for the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer at an early stage.

Prevention of hyperlipidemic acute pancreatitis during pregnancy with medium-chain triglyceride nutritional support

CONCLUSION

A combination of diet therapy, nutritional support with medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), and well-planned preterm Cesarean delivery on demand is an effective measure to prevent gestational hyperlipidemic pancreatitis and leads to successful childbirth.

BACKGROUND

Prevention and therapy of gestational hyperlipidemic pancreatitis are important, although difficult, because the condition carries a high maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality.

RESULTS

We describe a 32-yr-old female with lipoprotein lipase-deficient familial hypertriglyceridemia who had recurrent episodes of acute pancreatitis. The third episode occurred with worsened hyperlipidemia 7 yr earlier at 32 wk of her first pregnancy and resulted in fetal death. The fourth and fifth episodes were also accompanied by marked hyperlipidemia probably caused by drug discontinuance and dietary noncompliance. She became pregnant. Serum triglyceride levels were controlled below 2000 mg/dL by strict monitoring with low-fat, low-calorie diet and MCT nutritional support. A premature but healthy infant was born by Cesarean delivery at 36 wk of gestation when the mother presented with mild abdominal pain and was found to have uterine contractions. The ensuing clinical course has been uneventful.

Prolyl hydroxylase and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase in pure pancreatic juice in patients with chronic pancreatitis

Prolyl hydroxylase is a key enzyme in collagen synthesis, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP) is known to suppress collagenolytic enzymes. To see whether the levels of these two enzymes in serum and human pure pancreatic juice (PPJ) are good indicators of pancreatic fibrosis in chronic pancreatitis (CP), we examined 15 controls, 14 alcoholics without evident pancreatic diseases (7 current drinkers and 7 former drinkers), and 19 patients with CP. Levels of the two enzymes were determined by a sandwich enzyme immunoassay method. TIMP-1 levels in PPJ were significantly higher in patients with CP than in controls and alcoholics, with overlap in only a few exceptional patients. A significant inverse correlation between TIMP-1 and bicarbonate output in PPJ was observed. Prolyl hydroxylase levels in PPJ, in contrast, were significantly higher in current drinkers than in patients with CP, controls, and former drinkers, with overlap in only a few exceptional patients with relapsing CP. Identical results were obtained even when the enzyme levels were expressed as nanograms per milligram of protein. Serum levels of prolyl hydroxylase and TIMP-1 showed no significant differences among controls, current alcoholics, former alcoholics, and patients with CP. These results indicate that the raised level of TIMP-1 in PPJ, unlike that of prolyl hydroxylase, is a good indicator of pancreatic fibrosis in CP.

Preparation of alkyl-substituted indoles in the benzene portion. Part 15. Asymmetric synthesis of (+)-duocarmycin SA using novel procedure for preparation of hydroxyindoles

An asymmetric total synthesis of natural (+)-duocarmycin SA (1) starting from L-malic acid (7) was achieved as shown in Chart 5, establishing firmly the absolute configuration of 1. In order to find suitable reaction conditions for the key step, i.e., the formation of an alkoxyindole derivative, model compounds 9 and 40 were synthesized and two acetalization conditions using i) 2-ethyl-2-methyl-1,3-dioxane and boron trifluoride etherate, and ii) 1,3-bis(trimethylsilyloxy)propane and trimethylsilyl triflate were found to be effective. The former conditions were successfully applied to total synthesis and 49b was prepared from 48 in 54% yield. Further elaborations including i) Curtius rearrangement of 53b to 56, and ii) cleavage of the primary benzyloxy group in the presence of the secondary one in its close vicinity (56-->57) led to the relay compound 62, whose conversion to 1 has already been accomplished.

Chronic pancreatitis: functional testing

This article reviews the evolution of functional testing of the pancreas in Japan for the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pancreatitis (CP), contrasting the pre- with the postsecretin test (S test) era. In the pre-S test era, the diagnosis was based on symptoms, clinical findings, fasting serum diastase levels, and the vagostigmin- and ether-stimulation test unless morphologic evidence was available. The S test and CCK-pancreozymin (PZ) test (PS test) were introduced into Japan around 1963 and have been used as the gold standard of the exocrine pancreatic-function test. Through a series of attempts at standardization in 1971, 1985, and 1987, the method was standardized to collect duodenal juice for 60 min through a double- or triple-lumen tube after a bolus or during a continuous i.v. injection of secretin (100 U). The S test, however, is an invasive and cumbersome procedure. As a result, N-benzoyl-L-tyrosal-p-aminobenzoic acid (BT-PABA) testing and fecal chymotrypsin testing were introduced into Japan in the middle and late 1970s, respectively. Although simple and noninvasive, these two methods were found have lower sensitivity and specificity than the conventional S test. These two methods, therefore, are presently used more often for monitoring the course of disease and therapeutic effects. Additionally, the glucose tolerance test can be performed to detect endocrine pancreatic insufficiency.

Gastrobiliary dysmotility in patients with chronic pancreatitis as assessed by a single noninvasive test

We simultaneously assessed gastric emptying and gallbladder contraction after oral administration of a liquid meal by noninvasive ultrasonography in 17 patients with chronic pancreatitis (CP) and in 17 healthy controls. Gastrointestinal (GI) transit was also assessed by a noninvasive radioopaque marker method. Exocrine pancreatic function was evaluated by analyzing pure pancreatic juice and by analyzing the autonomic nervous system by cardiovascular reflex tests. Patients with CP showed impaired gallbladder contraction at 15 min and hastened gastric emptying. The cause of the former is unclear, whereas the latter was closely related with decreased pancreatic lipase output, but not with autonomic dysfunction. GI transit time did not differ between controls and patients with CP. In conclusion, we succeeded in clearly demonstrating impaired gallbladder contraction and hastened gastric emptying in patients with CP by a single noninvasive test, ultrasonography. We also revealed for the first time that hastened gastric emptying is associated with insufficient pancreatic lipase output.

Sequences of homologous beta-lactamases from clinical isolates of Serratia marcescens with different substrate specificities

Genes for two group 1 beta-lactamases, SRT-1 and SST-1, were sequenced. These beta-lactamases were produced by clinical isolates of Serratia marcescens, isolates GN16694 and GN19450, respectively. The resulting enzymes were 96% identical. SRT-1 hydrolyzed oxyimino cephalosporins, but SST-1 hardly hydrolyzed them. At residue 213 in the third motif, which is conserved among group 1 beta-lactamases, SRT-1 and SST-1 had Lys and Glu, respectively. By site-directed mutagenesis, the substitution of Glu by Lys at residue 213 in SST-1 resulted in an enzyme that hydrolyzed oxyimino cephalosporins.

Surgically resected brain stem cavernous angioma in an infant

An infantile case of surgically resected brain stem cavernous angioma is presented. This 21-month-old boy was admitted to our department after repeated severe pontine hemorrhage. A deeplying lesion with hematoma was successfully removed via the IV ventricle approach. Few infantile cases of this lesion have been presented previously, and the approaches to brain stem cavernous angiomas in infants are discussed.

Comparison of immune reactivity profiles against various environmental allergens between adult patients with atopic dermatitis and patients with allergic respiratory diseases

To clarify the pathomechanisms underlying the involvement of different organs by atopic dermatitis (AD) and allergic respiratory disease (ARD), we compared the immune reactivities to various environmental allergens between 46 adult patients who suffered only from AD but were without any history of ARD and 41 patients who had only ARD, using a RAST FEIA (radioallergosorbent test/fluoroenzyme immunoassay) and a scarification patch test. We also studied 42 healthy adult subjects in a similar fashion. Total serum IgE antibody levels were found to be far higher in the AD group than in the ARD and healthy control group, and RAST revealed that the AD group was sensitized to far larger numbers of allergens such as food mix, cereal mix, fungus mix and Candida albicans than were the other groups. The ARD group displayed a high incidence in RAST, comparable to that of the AD group, only against Japanese cedar and grass pollen mix antigen. However, the most remarkable difference in the immune reactivity profiles was that the AD group showed a uniquely higher RAST score and a lower incidence of positive patch test reactions to C. albicans antigen than did the ARD group. The reactivities in the ARD group to C. albicans antigen did not differ from those in the control group. Our present data suggest that a more pronounced shift from Th1 to Th2 cells, reactive against various allergens, takes place in AD patients.

Medicinal foodstuffs. VII. On the saponin constituents with glucose and alcohol absorption-inhibitory activity from a food garnish "Tonburi", the fruit of Japanese Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad.: structures of scoparianosides A, B, and C

The methanolic extract of a food garnish "Tonburi", the fruit of Japanese kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. (Chenopodiaceae), was found to inhibit the increase in serum glucose-loaded rats. Through bioassay-guided separation, momordin Ic and its 2'-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside were isolated as the active principles from this medicinal foodstuff together with three new saponins named scoparianosides A, B, and C. The structures of scoparianosides A, B, and C were elucidated on the basis of chemical and physicochemical evidence as 3 beta, 22 alpha-dihydroxyolean-12en-28-oic acid (22 alpha-hydroxyoleanolic acid), 3-O-beta-D-xylopyranosyl (1 --> 3)-beta-D-glucopyranosiduronic acid, 3 beta-hydroxyolean -18-en-28-oic acid (morolic acid), 3-O-beta-D-xylopyranosyl(1 --> 3)-beta-D -glucopyranosiduronic acid, and 3 beta-hydroxyolean-13(18)-en-28-oic acid, 3-O-beta-D-xylopyranoxyl(1 --> 3) -beta-D-glucopyranosiduronic acid. Momordin Ic and its 2'-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside, both of which are the principal saponin constituents of this medicinal foodstuffs, were found to potently inhibit glucose and ethanol absorption in rats.

Role of (ADP-ribose)n catabolism in DNA repair

Poly(ADP-ribose) is a reversible covalent-modifier of chromosomal proteins in eukaryotic cells. The function of poly(ADP-ribose) is not clear, although it has been suggested to be involved in the regulation of DNA transactions such as replication, repair, and transcription. Here we describe a specific competitive inhibitor of poly(ADP-ribose) glycohydrolase, a macrocircular ellagitannin oenothein B, and a nuclear system prepared from synchronized HeLa S3 cells at mid-G1 phase that enable us to examine the role of poly(ADP-ribose) catabolism in DNA repair. The results suggest that poly(ADP-ribose) is capable of generating ATP by the concerted action of poly(ADP-ribose) glycohydrolase and ADP-ribose pyrophosphorylase and that this ATP enables repair DNA synthesis.

Inhibitory mechanisms of oleanolic acid 3-O-monodesmosides on glucose absorption in rats

We examined the action mechanism of oleanolic acid 3-O-monodesmoside, momordin Ic (1), and oleanolic acid 3-O-glucuronide (2) for the inhibitory effect on the increase in serum glucose levels in oral glucose-loaded rats. Although 1 and 2 dose-dependently inhibited the increase in serum glucose levels in oral glucose-loaded rats, these compounds showed no significant effects on serum glucose levels in normal rats, intraperitoneal glucose-loaded rats, and alloxane-induced diabetic mice. Furthermore, 1 and 2 were found to suppress gastric emptying in rats, and also to inhibit the glucose uptake in rat small intestine concentration dependently in vitro. These results indicate that 1 and 2 given orally have neither insulin-like activity nor insulin releasing-activity. 1 and 2 apparently inhibited glucose absorption by suppressing the transfer of glucose from the stomach to the small intestine and by inhibiting the glucose transport system at the small intestinal brush border.

Antibacterial activity of T-5575, a novel 2-carboxypenam, and its stability to beta-lactamase

The in-vitro activity of T-5575, 2-carboxypenam, a new parenteral antibiotic and its stability to beta-lactamases were compared with those of ceftazidime and imipenem. The activity of T-5575 was equal or superior to that of ceftazidime or imipenem against Gram-negative bacteria that produced penicillinase with the exception of the enzyme OXA-1. Against strains that produced Cephalosporinase and zinc-dependent beta-lactamase, the activity of T-5575 was superior to that of ceftazidime or imipenem. T-5575 was a poor substrate and had low affinity for beta-lactamases produced by Citrobacter freundii, Enterobacter cloacae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The activity of T-5575 was less influenced by the derepressed production of chromosomal enzymes than that of ceftazidime. Overall, T-5575 had excellent activity against Gram-negative pathogens that produced various types of beta-lactamases.

Antihypertensive effect of angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory peptides derived from hemoglobin

From proteolytic digest of swine hemoglobin, we isolated four peptide, E-1 (Phe-Gln-Lys-Val-Val-Ala), E-2 (Phe-Gln-Lys-Val-Val-Ala-Gly), peptide 30-3 (Phe-Gln-Lys-Val-Val-Ala-Lys) and H-1 (Gly-Lys-Lys-Val-Leu-Gln). These peptides inhibited angiotensin I-converting enzyme activity with an IC50 of 5.8, 7.4, 2.1 and 1.9 microM, respectively. Oral administration of 50 mg/kg E-1 and 50 mg/kg H-1 decreased blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats. In normotensive rats, oral administration of 500 mg/kg E-1 and 500 mg/kg H-1 inhibited the pressor effect of i.v. administrated 300 ng/kg angiotensin I, possibly by inhibiting its conversion to angiotensin II. These results suggest that these peptides are orally effective inhibitors of angiotensin I-converting enzyme that have a hypotensive effect.

Detection of HBV-DNA and HCV-RNA viral sequences by polymerase chain reaction in selected Kenyan samples and the relationship to HBV seromarkers

We undertook a study on selected samples from patients who had presented with viral hepatitis and conditions of the liver (liver cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma). Diagnosis, screening and confirmation for viral hepatitis was done using a battery of techniques: ultrasound, conventional serological methods (Hepatitis B surface Antigen [HBsAg] - Reverse Passive Haemagglutination [RPHA], Hepatitis B core Antibody [HBcAb] - Passive Haemagglutination [PHA], Alpha-feto Protein - RPHA), Hepatitis B e Antigen/Antibody [HBeAg/Ab] - Radioimmunoassay [RIA], Hepatitis C antibody [HCV-Ab] - Enzyme Immunosorbent Assay [EIA]. Due to the high specificity and sensitivity of the Polymerase Chain Reaction technique [PCR] in detecting the viral genomes, it was used to establish the presence of the HBV-DNA and HCV-RNA to correlate the serological diagnosis of their respective seromarkers. A total of 39 serum samples were tested comprising 11 blood donors, 8 chronic liver disease patients and 20 hepatocellular carcinoma cases. 4/19 (21%) HCV-antibody (C-l) reactive samples were found to be positive for HCV-RNA by PCR. 14 of the 19 (73.7%) including the 4 HCV-RNA positive cases tested positive for HBcAb. 6 of 11 (55%) HBsAg positive cases also tested positive for HBV-DNA by PCR, In 8 of 20 (40%) hepatocellular carcinoma cases, no aetiological role could be assigned to hepatitis B or C as only HBcAb was demonstrated in those cases.

A beta-lactamase from Serratia marcescens hydrolyzing the 2-carboxypenam T-5575

A beta-lactamase was purified from Serratia marcescens GN16694; it hydrolyzed T-5575 and oxime-type cephalosporins, i.e., cefuroxime and ceftazidime. Its isoelectric point and molecular weight were 8.6 and 42,000, respectively. This enzyme was not inhibited by EDTA and clavulanic acid. This enzyme is an unusual beta-lactamase and has been classified as a group 1 cephalosporinase.

Prurigo nodularis consists of two distinct forms: early-onset atopic and late-onset non-atopic

BACKGROUND

Prurigo nodularis (PN) is a characteristic chronic dermatosis of unknown etiology showing severely pruritic nodules mainly on the extremities. Atopic diathesis has been implicated as a contributing factor.

OBJECTIVE

Our purpose was to analyze the role of environmental allergens from living organisms in the pathogenesis of PN, to report hypersensitivity against various environmental allergens and to relate this to atopic history in 31 PN patients.

METHODS

Positive and negative controls were studied including 52 patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) and 22 healthy controls. RAST, prick tests and scarification patch tests were performed on the patients and specimens from lesions of 8 patients were stained with anti-eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) antibody.

RESULTS

The 31 PN patients were divided into two groups, those with a past or present history of AD (PN + AD patients) and those without (PN-only patients). Twenty patients (65%) had PN + AD (median age at onset 19 years) and 11 (35%) had PN only (median age at onset 48 years). Analyses of serum IgE levels. RAST scores, prick test and scarification patch test results revealed that the PN + AD patients showed hypersensitive reactions to the environmental allergens in a pattern almost identical to that noted in AD without PN. In contrast, most of those with PN only did not show any hypersensitivity reactions to the environmental allergens. Histologically, many activated eosinophils, identified by monoclonal antibody to ECP, were observed only in the dermis of the PN+AD patients, in contrast to few eosinophils in the lesion of PN-only patients.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that there are two forms of PN: an atopic and a non-atopic one. The PN+AD group is closely associated with AD, being accompanied by cutaneous hypersensitivity to various environmental allergens (a pattern similar to that displayed by AD patients) and has a younger age of onset, whereas the PN-only group, which showed a much older age of onset, does not show any such hypersensitive reactions against these allergens.

IgE-mediated hypersensitivity and contact sensitivity to multiple environmental allergens in atopic dermatitis

BACKGROUND AND DESIGN

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic eczematous skin disease that develops in a patient with atopic diathesis, which is characterized by an increased liability to produce IgE antibodies for environmental allergens mostly derived from other living organisms. Experimentally, eczematous skin lesions cannot be induced by immediate IgE-mediated reactions alone. They are produced by cell-mediated allergic contact reactions, and recently contact sensitivity to various environmental allergens has been demonstrated in patients with AD. However, the pathologic role of IgE-mediated skin hypersensitivity or that of delayed-type hypersensitivity to various environmental allergens in AD is not fully evaluated. They have been studied separately and against only specific allergens. Thus, we performed a combined testing procedure consisting of radioallergosorbent test, prick, and scarification patch tests for eight environmental allergens in 97 Japanese adult patients with AD; 48 of them had a history of atopic respiratory diseases (ARD), whereas the remaining 49 had no history of ARD (pure AD).

RESULTS

Patients with AD, particularly those with ARD (AD+ARD), showed a higher incidence of positive radioallergosorbent test and prick test results as well as patch test results against multiple environmental allergens than healthy age-matched control subjects. Among them, we found a significantly high positive correlation between radioallergosorbent test scores and patch test reactions to two allergens, Japanese cedar, and Dermatophagoides farinae allergens in patients with AD. However, the patients with AD displayed a significantly lower incidence of positive patch test reactions to Candida albicans allergen than the healthy control subjects. Patients with AD with negative C albicans patch tests tended to have higher levels of total serum IgE including anti-C albicans IgE antibody. We found negative correlations between total serum IgE levels including specific antibodies and patch test reactions to C albicans allergen.

CONCLUSIONS

Except for the dissociated reactivities to C albicans allergen consisting of decreased contact sensitivity and heightened IgE response, generally both IgE-mediated skin hypersensitivity and delayed-type hypersensitivity to various environmental allergens are pronounced in patients with AD. The combined use of these in vivo and in vitro tests is useful to estimate the immunological state of patients with AD.

[The clinico-pathological significance of hematuria in diabetics]

A clinico-pathological study was performed on 154 patients with diabetes mellitus to clarify the significance of glomerular hematuria. Glomerular hematuria was observed in 26 patients (16.9%), of whom 10 had complications of IgA glomerulonephritis and one had membranous nephropathy. The remaining patients (143 cases) were divided into two groups; a hematuria group (15 cases) and a non-hematuria group (128 cases). Patients in the hematuria group showed diabetic retinopathy, hypertension, massive proteinuria and the requirement for insulin therapy more often than those in the non-hematuria group (p < 0.01, p < 0.001, p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively). In addition, the serum creatinine level in the hematuria group was significantly elevated compared to that in the non-hematuria group (p < 0.01). Histologically, patients in the hematuria group exhibited advanced diffuse lesions, nodular lesions, exudative lesions, microaneurysms, crescent formation, capsular adhesion and interstitial lesions more often than those in the non-hematuria group (all, p < 0.001). Furthermore, the vascular index in the hematuria group was significantly higher than that in the non-hematuria group (p < 0.001). It is suggested that glomerular hematuria in diabetic patients indicates the presence of diabetic nephropathy at an advanced stage or coexistence of primary glomerulonephritis.

Intraglomerular expression of transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta 1) mRNA in patients with glomerulonephritis: quantitative analysis by competitive polymerase chain reaction

TGF-beta 1 is involved in the pathogenesis of glomerular sclerosis. We studied the intraglomerular expression of TGF-beta 1 mRNA in patients with glomerulonephritis using competitive polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This method is sensitive enough to quantify cDNA copies of mRNA present in small amounts of samples. Renal biopsy specimens were obtained from 42 patients with various kinds of glomerulonephritis. Ten glomeruli were dissected from renal biopsy specimens. Normal glomeruli were also obtained from the resected kidneys of eight patients with renal cell cancer. Total RNA was extracted from the glomeruli and reverse transcribed into cDNA with reverse transcriptase. To prepare samples containing identical amounts of beta-actin cDNA (8 pg), we performed competitive PCR by co-amplifying mutant templates of beta-actin with a unique EcoRI site. Next, to measure TGF-beta 1 cDNA, we performed competitive PCR by co-amplifying mutant templates of TGF-beta 1. We observed a higher glomerular expression of TGF-beta 1 mRNA in cases of mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis having a moderate increase in mesangial matrix, diabetic nephropathy and diffuse proliferative lupus nephritis, compared with normal glomeruli. Results suggest that the intraglomerular synthesis of TGF-beta 1 may be involved in the progression of glomerulonephritis in humans.

Antihypertensive effects of peptides in autolysate of bonito bowels on spontaneously hypertensive rats

An autolysate of bonito bowels was treated with ultrafiltration, loose RO concentration, ion-exchange chromatography, and reverse phase chromatography to increase its potency to inhibit angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) activity by 16-fold. Oral administration of the partially purified autolysate decreased the systolic blood pressure of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) in a dose-dependent manner at the doses of 1 g peptides/kg or higher. The relationship between the antihypertensive activity (in vivo) of the partially purified preparation and its ACE inhibitory activity (in vitro) in comparison with previously reported ACE inhibitory peptides is discussed.

Isolation and characterization of angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory peptides derived from bonito bowels

Four angiotensin I-converting enzyme (EC 3.4.15.1) (ACE) inhibitory peptides C105, C107, C111, and C112 were isolated from bonito bowels. C111 was obtained from liver, while the others were from intestine. Their amino acids were sequenced as Ser-Val-Ala-Lys-Leu-Glu-Lys for C105, Ala-Leu-Pro-His-Ala for C107, Gly-Val-Tyr-Pro-His-Lys for C111, and Ile-Arg-Pro-Val-Gln for C112. Their ACE inhibition activities were measured for synthetic peptides. The IC50 of these peptides were estimated to be 82, 79, 1.6, and 1.4 microM, respectively. Carboxyl-terminal amino acid(s) were considered to be essential for their expression of ACE inhibition for C105, C107, and C111, while the amino terminal tripeptide Ile-Arg-Pro of C112 was presumed to inhibit ACE after the removal of a dipeptide from C112 with ACE digestion. Presumed original proteins of these peptides are discussed.

Angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory peptides derived from bonito bowels autolysate

Six angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory peptides were isolated from a bonito bowels autolysate. Their amino acids were sequenced as Tyr-Arg-Pro-Tyr, Gly-His-Phe, Val-Arg-Pro, Ile-Lys-Pro, Leu-Arg-Pro, and Ile-Arg-Pro. Peptides having corresponding amino acid sequences were synthesized by a solid-phase method and their inhibition of the activity measured. IC50 of these peptides were estimated to be 320, 1100, 2.2, 2.5, 1.0, and 1.8 microM, respectively. The role of carboxyl terminal proline residues on the inhibition is discussed.

The clinical significance of reactivity to individual epitopes of the hepatitis C viral genome

In order to analyze the clinical significance of the various HCV epitopes, we compared the results of different HCV specific assays with HCV-RNA, determined in serum by RT-PCR method using primers to the 5' untranslated region of HCV-RNA. Among 73 patients with chronic NANB liver disease, 93% were positive for C22-3, 96% for C33C, 81% for C100-3 and 91% for RT-PCR. Positivity rates for 537 healthy subjects were 1.7% for C100-3 and 2.9% for second generation anti-HCV. A total of 6 persons were positive for C22-3 but not C100-3; all were negative for HCV-RNA. In 11 of 30 patients treated with interferon and HCV-RNA became negative and remained so for more than 24 months. In these 11 sustained responders, C100-3 and C33C antibody declined progressively, but C22-3 antibody showed a little change after treatment by quantitative analysis. The discrepancy of changes to NS region and core region after interferon treatment is consistent with a different clinical significance of reactivities to these HCV epitopes. Thus negative reactivity to NS region but positive for core region among healthy subjects may indicate past infection with HCV. Presence of antibodies to NS epitopes is implicated in HCV replication, while core epitopes indicate both present and past HCV infection.

Ventilatory anaerobic threshold before and after cardiac valve surgery

The purpose of this study was to objectively assess exercise tolerance before and after cardiac valve surgery by using an objectively determined ventilatory anaerobic threshold (AT). Nine patients (mean age: 38.2 +/- 8.1 years) with predominantly mitral regurgitant lesions were studied by a symptomatic maximal treadmill exercise test which included a determination of AT. The mean lengths of time from preoperative exercise testing to cardiac surgery, and from surgery to postoperative exercise testing were 5.9 +/- 4.0 and 12.1 +/- 8.3 months, respectively. The determination of AT on data plots was performed after blinding to patient identification and pre- vs postoperative status. After surgery, the clinical symptoms and NYHA class improved significantly with a decrease in the cardio-thoracic ratio and echocardiographic diastolic dimensions. The mean peak VO2 (ml/kg/min) increased significantly from 20.2 +/- 7.1 to 29.7 +/- 7.9 (p < 0.01). Together with these changes, AT (ml/kg/min in VO2) increased from a mean of 14.8 +/- 4.8 to 22.8 +/- 5.5 (p < 0.01). In conclusion, symptomatic improvement and an increase in peak oxygen uptake after cardiac valve surgery were accompanied by a significant increase in the objectively determined AT. AT determined in a blind manner provides an objective means of evaluating exercise tolerance when a double-blind intervention cannot be performed.

Oral administration of peptides derived from bonito bowels decreases blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats by inhibiting angiotensin converting enzyme

1. Peptides C111 (Gly-Val-Tyr-Pro-His-Lys) and C112 (Ile-Arg-Pro-Val-Gln), extracted from the autolysis product of bonito liver and intestine, have been shown to inhibit angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activity in vitro with IC50s of 1.6 microM and 1.4 microM, respectively. We examined the effects of oral administration of these peptides on blood pressure. 2. Oral administration of these peptides (500 mg kg-1 body weight each) inhibited the pressor effect of intravenously administered angiotensin I in Sprague-Dawley rats. 3. In spontaneously hypertensive rats, oral administration of these peptides (100-200 mg kg-1 body weight) showed depressor effects. 4. These results suggest that the peptides, C111 and C112, are orally effective ACE inhibitors with hypotensive effect.

Malignant melanoma complicated by schwannoma

We report two cases of malignant melanoma associated with a schwannoma. Case 1 is a 32-year-old Japanese man who had a nodular melanoma in his epigastrium, associated with one subcutaneous nodule on the neck and another on the right thigh, both of which were histologically-proven schwannomas. Case 2 is a 48-year-old Japanese woman with an acral lentiginous melanoma on her right sole who later developed a schwannoma of the cerebello-pontine angle. Of all 146 malignant melanoma cases found in our clinic during the past 20 years, 1.4% were associated with a neurogenic tumour, a significant association.

Giant condyloma acuminatum in a baby boy

A giant condyloma acuminatum developed on the penis of a one and a half-year-old Japanese boy in two months. The histological features of this tumor were compatible with those of ordinary condyloma acuminatum. Although we detected the presence of human papilloma virus (HPV) type 16 by using the polymerase chain reaction system, we could not rule out the possibility that this HPV was present concurrently with other HPV types that cause condyloma acuminatum. The lesion was successfully treated with cryotherapy and topical application of 5% fluorouracil ointment under occlusion.

Beneficial effect of stopping smoking on future cardiac events in male smokers with previous myocardial infarction

We assessed the effect of stopping smoking on future cardiac events (cardiac death and non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI)) in 90 male smokers with previous MI by a prospective follow-up study. At the time of enrollment, the patients were divided into 2 groups according to their current smoking status (Group A: those who had stopped smoking (n = 60), and Group B: those who were still smoking (n = 30)). Follow-up was performed prospectively by annual postal questionnaires. During the mean follow-up period of 3.1 +/- 1.4 years, 13 cardiac events (11 cardiac deaths and 2 cases of non-fatal MI) occurred in the 87 evaluable patients. The cardiac event rates in Groups A and B were 8.5% and 28.6%, respectively, and the relative risk was 3.4 (Group A vs B, p less than 0.05) by univariate analysis. The relative risk using multivariate analysis (Cox) was also statistically significant (3.1, p less than 0.05). HDL-cholesterol was significantly lower in Group B than in Group A, but other coronary risk factors apart from smoking were not significantly different between the two groups. At the end of the follow-up period, 89.8% of the patients in Group A remained nonsmokers and 21% of the patients in Group B had stopped smoking.

CONCLUSION

Stopping smoking significantly reduced the risk of future cardiac events in male smokers with previous MI. This prospective follow-up study demonstrated that a significant reduction in the risk of future cardiac events could be achieved by stopping smoking in this group of patients.

[Three cases presenting with systemic lupus erythematosus and minimal change nephrotic syndrome]

Three cases presenting with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) are reported in this paper. All cases were female; they abruptly developed nephrotic syndrome at the age of 30, 11 and 23 years, respectively. In Case 1, the diagnosis of SLE was based on fever, butterfly rash, Raynaud's phenomenon, leukopenia, lymphopenia, hypocomplementemia, a high titer of anti-DNA antibodies, positive DNA and LE test, and the presence of anti-nuclear antibodies (speckled pattern). In Case 2, the diagnosis was based on butterfly rash, central nervous system involvement, lymphopenia, hypocomplementemia, a positive LE cell phenomenon, a high titer of anti-DNA antibodies and a positive DNA test. In Case 3, the diagnosis was based on photosensitivity, alopecia, lymphopenia, hypocomplementemia, a high titer of anti-DNA antibodies, a positive DNA test and a positive LE cell phenomenon. In these three cases, initial symptoms were puffy face and pretibial edema which occurred suddenly. These symptoms disappeared completely after either corticosteroid therapy or a combination therapy using corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs. These patients took a favorable course and no aggravation was noted in the findings of urinalysis and renal functions. In two of these cases, the diagnostic criteria for SLE were satisfied, but the remaining patient fulfilled only three criteria except for renal disorder. In each of these cases, minor glomerular abnormalities were disclosed by renal histology. It seems likely that SLE was complicated by MCNS in these cases. From these cases, it is suggested that there is a possibility of immunological abnormalities associated with SLE and MCNS.

High risk of mother-to-child transmission of HTLV-I in p40tax antibody-positive mothers

A new enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for detecting the antibody to a human T-lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I) tax gene product, p40tax, has been developed. By this ELISA method, we have investigated the relationship between the presence of p40tax antibody in HTLV-I-infected mothers and the virus transmission rate from mothers to their children. The rate of mother-to-child transmission of HTLV-I was higher in p40tax antibody-positive mothers than in antibody-negative ones. Thus, the presence of p40tax antibody may indicate an increased risk of vertical transmission of HTLV-I.

[Relation between anaerobic threshold and maximal oxygen consumption during graded treadmill exercise]

The ratio of anaerobic threshold (AT) to maximal oxygen consumption (Max VO2), which is referred to as relative AT, was evaluated in six athletic students (S), 12 normal male subjects (N) and 39 patients with chronic heart disease (C). Group C was categorized in three subgroups according to the New York Heart Association functional class (CI: 10, CII: 16 and CIII: 13 patients). The symptomatic-maximal graded treadmill exercise test was performed and respiratory parameters were measured by R1500S Autoaerobics. AT was determined as the oxygen consumption (VO2) at which a linear relationship between pulmonary ventilation and VO2 was lost during progressive exercise. All subjects performed maximal exertion until they were limited by either shortness of breath or leg fatigue. AT (ml/min/kg) was 36.4 +/- 6.0, 25.9 +/- 5.7, 21.4 +/- 4.5, 16.3 +/- 4.0 and 11.1 +/- 2.6, and MaxVO2 (ml/min/kg) was 77.3 +/- 6.5, 47.6 +/- 10.2, 29.5 +/- 6.1, 22.5 +/- 5.8 and 15.5 +/- 3.1, respectively, in group S, N, CI, CII and CIII (p less than 0.01 between each group). Relative AT(%) was 46.8 +/- 4.4, 54.9 +/- 7.2, 72.1 +/- 6.4, 73.0 +/- 8.6 and 72.6 +/- 8.7, respectively, in groups S, N, CI, CII and CIII (p less than 0.01 between S and N, between N and CI-CIII, between S and CI-III). The anaerobic threshold appeared at mid-point in the graded symptomatic maximal exercise test. However, the appearance of AT relative to the maximal oxygen consumption varied from 47 to 73% in the study groups tested. AT appeared relatively early in normal subjects compared to cardiac subjects.

[Significance of anaerobic threshold in the assessment of functional state in patients with chronic heart disease]

The value of anaerobic threshold measurement in the assessment of aerobic capacity was evaluated in 14 athletic and 62 normal subjects, as well as in 165 patients with chronic heart disease. Anaerobic threshold was defined as the oxygen consumption at which pulmonary ventilation began to increase non-linearly in relation to oxygen consumption during symptomatic maximal graded treadmill exercise. Anaerobic threshold was detectable in most of the cardiac patients as well as in athletic and normal subjects, and correlated well with individual lactate threshold. It was highly reproducible in subjects in whom measurements were repeated. Anaerobic threshold decreased as age progressed in normal subjects as well as other exercise parameters. In cardiac patients, anaerobic threshold was significantly lower than in athletic or normal subjects, and decreased progressively as New York Heart Association classification advanced. Anaerobic threshold correlated loosely with pulmonary wedge pressure and cardiac index in patients, and increased after successful cardiac surgery reflecting improved cardiac function. Thus, determination of anaerobic threshold by respiratory measurements is an accurate and objective method to assess aerobic capacity in cardiac patients as well as in athletic and normal subjects.

Increase in Ca++ sensitivity of the contractile system by MCI-154, a novel cardiotonic agent, in chemically skinned fibers from the guinea pig papillary muscles

The effects of MCI-154, a novel cardiotonic agent, on the contractile protein system and the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) were investigated by using thin bundles of chemically skinned fibers from the guinea pig papillary muscles. In the skinned muscle fibers treated with 50 micrograms/ml of saponin, MCI-154 shifted the -log[Ca++]M-tension relation curve to the left and upward in the concentration-dependent manner (10(-7) to 10(-4) M). This was confirmed also in the skinned muscle fibers treated with 250 micrograms/ml of saponin which destroyed not only the surface membrane but also the function of SR. Sulmazole (10(-4) M) shifted the -log[Ca++]M-tension relation curve to the left but the effect was about 100 times less potent than that of MCI-154. Unlike MCI-154, sulmazole had little effect on the maximum tension development induced by -log[Ca++]M 4.4. Milrinone did not affect the Ca++-induced tension development in the skinned cardiac fibers. Higher concentration of MCI-154 (10(-4) M) also increased amplitude of -log[Mg-ATP]M-tension-curve in the absence of free Ca++ ion (bell-shaped curve) to the upward. Initial rate and plateau phase of Ca++ uptake by the SR in the skinned fibers treated with 50 micrograms/ml of saponin was increased slightly by MCI-154 at the concentrations of 10(-6) and 10(-4) M. MCI-154 had no effect on the Ca++-induced Ca++ release mechanism in the SR. These results suggest that an increase in Ca++ sensitivity of the contractile protein system is responsible for, at least in part, the mechanism of the positive inotropic action of MCI-154.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Effect of lidocaine on the myocardial acidosis induced by coronary artery occlusion in dogs

The effect of lidocaine on ischemic myocardial acidosis was investigated in the dog heart, in which the left anterior descending coronary artery was occluded to reduce to about one-third (partial occlusion). Myocardial pH (MpH) was measured by means of a micro glass pH electrode. MpH before partial occlusion was 7.52 to 7.66. Partial occlusion decreased the left anterior descending coronary artery flow by 49 to 68%, MpH by 0.58 to 0.76 and myocardial contractile force by 26 to 43%, and increased ST segment (surface electrocardiogram) by 3.2 to 11.7 mV. Lidocaine (injected i.v. 30 min after partial occlusion) decreased heart rate, blood pressure and myocardial contractile force, and attenuated the decrease in MpH during ischemia. Lidocaine in doses of 2, 5 and 10 mg/kg restored the myocardial [H+], that had been increased by partial occlusion, by 23, 38 and 50%, respectively. Even in the paced heart, lidocaine (10 mg/kg) attenuated the myocardial acidosis, although the degree of attenuation was smaller (36%). Partial occlusion elevated the ST segment even in the presence of 5 or 10 mg/kg of lidocaine. In the nonischemic heart, however, lidocaine (2, 5 or 10 mg/kg) did not change in MpH. It is concluded that lidocaine attenuates the myocardial acidosis during ischemia, and the primarily important mechanism of pH attenuation is not a decrease in heart rate.

Contractile proteins: possible targets for the cardiotonic action of MCI-154, a novel cardiotonic agent?

The effect on the contractile protein system of MCI-154, a novel and potent cardiotonic agent, was examined by using thin bundles of chemically skinned fibers from the guinea-pig papillary muscles. MCI-154 increased the Ca2+ sensitivity of the contractile protein system of the cardiac skinned fibers. Moreover, MCI-154 enhanced the maximum tension developed at pCa 4.4. These results suggest that an increase in responses of the contractile protein system to Ca2+ ion is, at least in part, responsible for the positive inotropic action of MCI-154.

Palm temperature monitoring during exercise in patients with heart disease

The quantitative use of palm temperature changes during a fixed-load treadmill exercise was evaluated in normal subjects and patients with various degrees of cardiac disability. Treadmill exercise revealed different temperature patterns between subject groups. Normal subjects showed an initial transient decrease to a plateau phase, followed by a prompt return to the control level after cessation of exercise. Cardiac patients with severe disabilities showed a progressive decrease during and even after exercise, and the return to the control level was delayed. Patients with less severe cardiac disabilities showed an intermediate pattern. A significant correlation was observed between the temperature pattern and the plasma catecholamine concentration. The simultaneous measurement of forearm and hand blood flow, and palm temperature during a supine ergometer exercise showed that the temperature change reflected the blood flow changes. In conclusion, palm temperature monitoring during treadmill exercise is a simple and useful method for assessment of the vasoconstrictor response to exercise and, therefore, the pattern of temperature changes indicates indirectly the exercise capacity in heart disease.

Alterations in myocardial perfusion during painless ST-segment depression in patients with angina pectoris

In order to determine whether painless ST changes represent myocardial ischemia, we studied regional myocardial perfusion in patients with angina pectoris who showed painless ST-segment depression during a treadmill exercise test. Twenty-one patients were evaluated by myocardial imaging using thallium-201 injected intravenously during exercise when painless ST-segment depression was evident. The same examination was repeated in 5 of the above patients when they showed ST-segment depression with chest pain. Myocardial images obtained during painless ST-segment depression revealed perfusion defects in 15 of 21 patients (71%). Images obtained during ST-segment depression with chest pain showed perfusion defects in all 5 patients (100%) including 3 patients who demonstrated no defects during painless ST-segment depression. In these 5 patients, the ST-segment depression associated with pain was significantly greater than that without pain (3.4 +/- 1.1 vs 2.1 +/- 1.1 mm, p less than 0.01). These results suggest that the majority of episodes of painless ST-segment depression occurring during exercise are accompanied by regional myocardial perfusion abnormalities and that transient painless ST-segment depression in patients with angina pectoris might represent less severe myocardial ischemia.