[Basic and clinical studies on cefditoren pivoxil in pediatric field]

Cefditoren pivoxil (CDTR-PI, ME1207) granules, a new oral cephem, was given to pediatric patients with infectious diseases to evaluate antibacterial activities against clinical isolates, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy and safety, and the following results were obtained. 1. In sensitivity test, 30 strains were used comprised of 5 species, isolated from the patients before administered with CDTR-PI. Against Staphylococcus aureus, MICs of 7 agents, cefditoren (CDTR), cefaclor, cefixime, cefteram, cefotiam, cefpodoxime and methicillin, were determined. Against other 4 species, MICs of the above 6 agents excluding methicillin were determined. Among Gram-positive cocci tested, the MICs of CDTR were 0.78 to 100 micrograms/ml or higher against S. aureus (16 strains), < or = 0.025 microgram/ml against Streptococcus pyogenes (5 strains), and 0.10 or 0.39 microgram/ml against Streptococcus pneumoniae (2 strains). These values were equal to or lower than those of conventional cephems and of methicillin. Among Gram-negative rods tested, the MICs of CDTR were < or = 0.025 microgram/ml against Haemophilus influenzae (3 strains), and 0.10 or 0.20 microgram/ml against Escherichia coli (4 strains). Also, these values were equal to or lower than those of conventional cephems. 2. When CDTR-PI granules was orally administered in a single dose of 3.0 mg/kg to 1 patient and that of 6.0 mg/kg to 2 patients 30 minutes after meal, plasma CDTR concentrations reached their maxima 4 hours after administration in the former patient and 1 or 2 hours after administration in the latter 2 patients, and the peak plasma concentrations were 1.91, 3.46 and 4.82 micrograms/ml with half-lives of 1.01, 0.81 and 0.88 hours and AUCs of 8.62, 9.89 and 13.52 micrograms.hr/ml, respectively. Dose-dependency was observed for the peak plasma concentrations and AUCs also tended to depend on dose excepting for the AUC in one 6.0 mg/kg patient. 3. The urinary concentrations in the above patients reached their peaks at 4 to 6 hours after administration in one 3.0 mg/kg patient and at 4 to 6 hours and 2 to 4 hours after administration in two 6.0 mg/kg patients, and the corresponding values were 126.0, 195.0 and 234.0 micrograms/ml, respectively. Recovery rates in the first 8 hours after administration were 18.2, 24.6 and 21.3%, respectively. 4. Of 53 patients with 13 diseases, CDTR-PI was clinically judged "excellent" in 32 (60.4%) and "good" in 21 (39.6%), showing excellent efficacy. 5. Bacteriologically, excellent results were obtained, i.e., 29 (96.7%) of 30 strains from 5 species were eradicated. 6. Side effects were observed in none of the 54 patients treated.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

[Basic and clinical studies on S-1108 in pediatric field]

S-1108 is a new oral esterified cephem antibiotic. Its active form, S-1006, has a broad antimicrobial spectrum against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Furthermore, S-1006 is extremely stable against beta-lactamases with some exceptions. In the present study, we conducted laboratory and clinical evaluations of S-1108 granules in pediatrics. The obtained results are summarized as follows. 1. A drug sensitivity test revealed that MIC80 of the drug against 456 clinical isolates of Staphylococcus aureus that had been kept in our laboratory was 6.25 micrograms/ml, similar to those of cefaclor (CCL) and methicillin (DMPPC). The most frequent MIC was 1.56 micrograms/ml against 20 strains of S. aureus isolated from patients who received this drug, and this value was similar to those for CCL, amoxicillin (AMPC) and DMPPC. As regards to Streptococcus pyogenes, MIC of S-1006 was < or = 0.025 microgram/ml against 449 clinical isolates in our culture collection and 7 strains obtained from patients who received this drug, and these MICs are similar to those of cefteram (CFTM). MICs of S-1006 against 5 strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae obtained from patients who received this drug were < or = 0.025 microgram/ml, 0.10 microgram/ml or 0.39 microgram/ml which are similar to those of CFTM. MICs of S-1006 against 4 strains of Haemophilus influenzae obtained from patients who received this drug were 0.05 or 0.10 microgram/ml which are similar to those of CFTM. 2. When S-1108 granule preparation was administered to 1 patient at 4.0 mg/kg, the peak plasma concentration of S-1006 was 1.25 microgram/ml. S-1108 granule preparation was also administered to 2 patients at 6.0 mg/kg, and the peak plasma concentrations were 2.43 micrograms/ml and 2.23 micrograms/ml. Plasma half-lives were 1.11 hours after 4.0 mg/kg and 1.28 hours in both patients given 6.0 micrograms/ml. AUCs were 4.06, 8.37 and 7.73 micrograms.hr/ml, respectively. A dose-response relationship was observed between the two doses. 3. Urinary concentration was the highest during the 4-6-hour period for a patient given 4.0 mg/kg, and during the 0-2-hour or 4-6-hour period for 2 patients given 6.0 mg/kg. The peak concentrations were 258.0, 602.0 and 500.0 micrograms/ml, respectively, and urinary recovery rates during the 0-8-hour period were 38.9, 38.3 and 23.1%, respectively. 4. Clinical effects were excellent or good in 88 of 93 patients, showing a very high efficacy rate of 94.6%.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Cerebral circulation in moyamoya disease: a clinical study using transcranial Doppler sonography

Transcranial Doppler sonography was performed on eight patients diagnosed as Moyamoya disease. Angiographically, the patients-four adults (mean age 42) and four children (mean age 7.7)-underwent a complete six- or five-vessel angiographic study. The results showed the following: (1) Despite the presence of stenosis, all middle cerebral arteries showed very low-flow velocity compared to their ipsilateral distal internal carotid arteries. In adult cases, the difference was very significant (p < 0.02). (2) Relatively high-flow velocity was observed in the posterior cerebral arteries of children, and in the ophthalmic arteries of adult cases. (3) In several occasions, very low-flow velocity values were still detected despite the fact that with angiography, the respective arterial segments were hardly opacified. The relation and discrepancy between these results and the angiographic findings, and the potential application of transcranial doppler in assessing and grading the severity of moyamoya disease are discussed.

[Laboratory and clinical studies on flomoxef in neonates and premature infants]

Flomoxef (FMOX), an oxacephem antibiotic of beta-lactam antibiotic family, was administered to 16 infants including 6 neonates and 10 premature infants at a dose of 20 or 40 mg/kg via intravenous injection, and plasma and urinary concentrations and the urinary recovery were determined. In addition, FMOX was administered via intravenous injection at daily doses averaging 85.5 mg/kg divided into 2 to 4 times for durations averaging 9 days to 96 infants from 0- to 90-day old (mainly neonates and premature infants). In 44 of the 96 infants with bacterial infections, clinical and bacteriological efficacies were evaluated, and prophylactic effects of FMOX were determined in the remaining 52 infants. Adverse reaction and laboratory tests abnormalities were evaluated also. The obtained results are summarized as follows. 1. Upon administration of FMOX at 20 or 40 mg/kg to neonates and premature infants via intravenous injection, plasma concentrations, half-lives and AUC were determined. In 3 neonates of 5, 7 and 16 days of ages administered with 20 mg/kg of FMOX, peak plasma concentrations of 62.5 to 99.7 micrograms/ml were achieved in 5 or 15 minutes after injection. Half-lives of FMOX in these neonates were 1.48 to 1.78 hours and AUC's were 112 to 161 micrograms.hr/ml. The same dose (20 mg/kg) of FMOX was administered to 3 premature infants of 5- 16- and 19-day of ages and initial blood samples were obtained at 5 minutes after injection from the 5-day old subject and at 15 minutes after injection from the 16-and 19-day old subjects. Peak plasma concentrations of 63.6 to 79.9 micrograms/ml were observed in the samples. Half-lives were 1.69 to 2.20 hours and AUC's were 174 to 201 micrograms.hr/ml. When 3 neonates (one 17-day old and two 24-day old subjects) were administered with 40 mg/kg of FMOX, peak plasma concentrations obtained at 5 minutes after injection were 99.7 to 122.0 micrograms/ml. Half-lives were 1.28 to 1.92 hours and AUC's were 170 to 357 micrograms.hr/ml.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

[Serial assessment of ventricle function in diastolic volume loading caused by valvular disease]

Thirty patients underwent aortic valve replacement (AVR) for aortic regurgitation and fifty-two did mitral valve replacement (MVR) for mitral regurgitation. Preoperative echocardiographic studies classified each cases into two groups. Group A: LVDs (left ventricular end-systolic dimension) > 50 mm and FS (left ventricular fractional shortening < 25%, Group B: LVDs < or = 50 mm or FS > or = 25%. Serial assessments by echocardiography were done at one year, three years, and five years after operation. LVDs, FS, LVDd (left ventricular end-diastolic dimension), EF (ejection fraction, Pombo's method) were evaluated. In the Group A of the AVR cases, it took three years for the left ventricular function to recover, but in the MVR cases, the left ventricular function didn't reach to the normal range, moreover tended to worsen five years after operation. One of the reasons may be attributable to the preoperative hemodynamic states in which the left ventricular after-load is smaller in the MVR cases. For such long-standing unfavorable condition, the left ventricle could not get enough recovery. In the Group B of both cases, there is no difference of the postoperative recovery of the left ventricular function. Postoperative cardiac function must be discussed upon the serial evaluation after operation.

Liver scintigraphy in a patient with Gaucher disease

Liver scintigraphy including SPECT was performed in a patient with Gaucher disease and compared with other methods. Multiple photon-deficient areas in the liver and spleen were recognized, and in evaluating the reticuloendothelial system of the liver, liver SPECT image was superior to US, CT and MR images.

The function of the hypothalamo-pituitary axis in brain dead patients

In order to find out the function of the hypothalamo-pituitary axis in brain dead patients, pituitary and hypothalamic hormone concentrations were measured and several anterior pituitary releasing tests were carried out in 39 brain dead patients. In addition, cerebral blood flow measurements were simultaneously performed. In almost all cases, the blood concentration of pituitary and hypothalamic hormones were above the sensitivity of the assay. Anterior pituitary releasing tests indicated that efficient functions of the hypothalamus were severely suppressed, while the normal secretory mechanism of the anterior pituitary was partially preserved in brain dead patients. Histological changes of hypothalamic neurons varied from barely detectable ghost cells to nearly normal cells even in the same case. Although, the remaining circulation seemed not to be sufficient enough to maintain integrated hypothalamo-pituitary function, as shown by the examinations of cerebral blood flow, the presence of hypothalamic hormones in the systemic circulation suggests that these hormones were released and carried from the hypothalamus by minimal flow which is preserved even after the diagnosis of brain death.

[Basic and clinical study of meropenem in pediatric field]

Meropenem (MEPM), a novel parenteral carbapenem antibiotic, was examined in a cooperative study involving 12 pediatric and 1 neonatologic facilities. The results are summarized as follows. 1. Antibacterial activity Antibacterial activity of MEPM against stock organisms including 31 strains of Streptococcus agalactiae, 14 of Listeria monocytogenes, 4 of Bordetella pertussis and 3 of Neisseria meningitidis ranged from 0.025 to 0.10 micrograms/ml in MIC90's, which were equal or lower than those of control drugs such as imipenem cefazolin, cefotiam, cefotaxime, ceftazidime and latamoxef. MICs against clinical isolates were as follows: In Gram-positive bacteria, MICs were 0.20 micrograms/ml to 6.25 micrograms/ml against 3 strains of Staphylococcus aureus, and 0.025 micrograms/ml or less against 4 of Streptococcus pneumoniae. In Gram-negative bacilli, MICs were 0.10 micrograms/ml to 0.20 micrograms/ml against 3 strains of Haemophilus influenzae and 0.78, 0.10 and 0.78 micrograms/ml, respectively, against one strain each of Enterobacter cloacae, Morganella morganii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. MIC against 1 strain of Peptococcus saccharolyticus was < or = 0.025 micrograms/ml. 2. Pharmacokinetics Maximum plasma concentrations after intravenous infusion of MEPM over 30 minutes at doses of 10, 20 and 40 mg/kg, respectively, to 3 different groups of 3 children (total 9 cases) were observed at the completion of the treatment. Mean maximum concentrations in the 3 groups were 36.3, 69.5 and 129.8 micrograms/ml, respectively, exhibiting clear dose response. Mean plasma half lives in beta phase were 0.94, 0.86 and 0.94 hours, respectively, exhibiting no difference by doses, and this trend was observed also by HPLC. Urinary excretion rates in the first 6 hours after dose in the 10, 20 and 40 mg/kg groups were 67.3, 65.6 and 68.4%, respectively. Concentrations of MEPM in cerebrospinal fluid were determined in 2 cases of pyogenic meningitis. In 1 case, 500 mg (5.9 mg/kg) of MEPM was infused intravenously over 30 minutes and concentrations on Days 6, 8 and 15 observed at 190, 60 and 100 minutes after respective doses were 0.13, 0.10 micrograms/ml and less than the detection limit. Cerebrospinal fluid-plasma concentration ratio was determinable only on Day 8 and was 2.8%. In another case to which 250 mg (38.5 mg/kg) of MEPM was infused intravenously over 30 minutes, the concentration at Days 6, 7 and 10, 1 hour after the dose were less than the detection limit on day 6, and 2.04 and 2.62 micrograms/ml, respectively on days 7 and 10. 3. Clinical efficacy Clinical efficacies were evaluated in 49 cases and the efficacy rate was 93.9%.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Transcranial Doppler sonography in carotid-cavernous fistulas: analysis of five cases

Transcranial doppler sonography was performed transorbitally in five patients clinically diagnosed as unilateral carotid-cavernous fistula. Dural arteriovenous malformation related-shunts were detected in all the patients. In the normal eyes, the only doppler signals observed at an insonation depth of 45 to 55 mm were those of the ophthalmic artery. In the affected eyes, abnormal doppler signals with relatively higher flow velocity and lower resistance were observed. In three of the cases, these abnormal signals showed a flow directed anteriorly or away from the cavernous sinus, consistent with changes in the ophthalmic veins caused by the presence of the shunts. In two cases, however, the observed flows were directed posteriorly, the normal direction of these veins. The possible explanations for this discrepancy are discussed in relation with angiographic findings. The use of transcranial doppler might provide a better understanding about hemodynamic changes in carotid cavernous fistulas.

Moyamoya disease associated with pituitary adenoma--report of two cases

Moyamoya disease associated with prolactin (PRL)-producing pituitary adenomas occurred in two females with elevated blood PRL levels (285 and 120 ng/ml). Computed tomography revealed cystic tumors extending from the sella turcica to the suprasellar cistern. Carotid angiography demonstrated stenoses or obstructions of the bilateral internal carotid arteries at their end point and development of bilateral basal moyamoya vessels. Histological diagnosis in one case was PRL-producing chromophobe adenoma. No stigmata of neurofibromatosis or any history of irradiation was found. Compression of carotid arteries by the tumor was unlikely. These cases should therefore be classified as moyamoya disease accompanied by brain tumor, a very rare occurrence. The hypothalamic disturbance caused by moyamoya disease may have induced the hyperprolactinemia, resulting in secondary prolactinoma.

[Transatrial approach to provide exposure of the left atrium]

Surgical exposure of the left atrial structures including the mitral valve apparatus is occasionally problematic, when the left atrium is small or noncompliant in the presence of previously implanted aortic prosthesis. We operated eleven cases with an incision that is a modification of a maneuver proposed by Dubost and colleagues, and all but one provide an excellent exposure of the left atrium and mitral valve apparatus. In one case of combined valvular disease complicated by chronic pericarditis, operative view was not satisfactory. The preserves equine pericardial patch was utilized to close the incision in 5 cases. No serious arrhythmias as atrioventricular conduction block was experienced. With this maneuver, the application is recommended to provide excellent exposure into the left atrium and mitral valve apparatus.

[Pharmacokinetics and clinical effects of cefdinir 10% fine granules in pediatrics]

Cefdinir (CFDN), a newly developed oral cephalosporin in a 10% fine granular form, was administered to 8 children and concentrations of the drug in plasma and urine and urinary recovery rates of the drug were determined. The subjects were divided into 2 groups of 4 children each; one group received 3 mg/kg of CFDN at 1 hour before meal (in the fasting state), and the other, at 30 minutes after meal. To study clinical and bacteriological effects of this drug, a mean dose of 4.8 mg/kg t.i.d. was administered for 8 days on the average to 9 children with various infections; tonsillitis (3 cases), acute bronchitis (1), pneumonia (1), acute purulent otitis media (1), urinary tract infection (2), and impetigo (1). MICs were determined for 6 drugs including CFDN, cefaclor, cefixime (CFIX), methicillin, cloxacillin, amoxicillin (AMPC) against 4 strains freshly isolated from children receiving CFDN. An inoculum size of 10(6) cfu/ml was used in the MIC-determinations. Adverse reactions and abnormal laboratory findings attributable to this drug were also examined in these children. The results obtained are summarized as follows. 1. Mean plasma peak levels of CFDN were observed at 2 hours after administration in the before-meal group and 4 or 5 hours after administration in the after-meal group mean peak values of 0.88 and 0.50 micrograms/ml, respectively. Mean half-lives were 1.61 hours in the before-meal group and 2.54 hours in the after-meal group, and mean AUCs were 4.24 in the former and 3.59 micrograms.hr/ml in the latter. 2. Mean urinary peak concentrations of CFDN were observed during 2-4 hours after dosing in the before-meal group and during 6-8 hours in the after-meal group with values of 93.3 and 44.8 micrograms/ml, respectively, in cases for which plasma concentrations of drugs were determined. Mean urinary recovery rates during the first 8 hours after administration in the before- and after-meal groups were 16.6 and 13.4%, respectively. 3. Good clinical effects were obtained with an efficacy rate of 100% in 9 patients with 6 diseases due to bacterial infections. 4. Good bacteriological effects were also obtained against 2 strains of Streptococcus pyogenes, 2 strains of Escherichia coli and 1 strain of Haemophilus influenzae with an eradication rate of 100%. In 3 cases of these and another case (normal flora), strains present before the study were replaced by other strains.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

[Alpha-hemolytic streptococcal septicemia and meningitis in immunocompromised children]

Many kinds of microorganisms can produce toxic septicemia in immunocompromised hosts. We are reporting alpha-hemolytic streptococcal septicemia and meningitis in two children with hematological malignancies. [Case 1] 6 year old girl who had been suffering from acute lymphocytic leukemia. She had sepsis and bacterial meningitis in maintenance-therapy for leukemia. Streptococcus sanguis was isolated from the blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). [Case 2] 11 year old girl who had had malignant lymphoma (non-Hodgkin type). She also had sepsis and bacterial meningitis due to Streptococcus mitis which was isolated from blood and CSF in maintenance-therapy. Both cases had been treated with anti-cancer drugs and had severe granulocytopenia. Positive rate of blood cultures during the recent 6 years (1984.1-1989.12) at our department was 6.0% (total number of cultures were 2,019, positive cultures were 121). Strains of 131 bacteria were determined; Gram-positive cocci were 70 strains (53.4%) and Gram-negative rods were 52 strains (39.7%). Fifteen strains (11.5%) of alpha-hemolytic Streptococci were isolated during 6 years. One hundred thirteen cases of septicemia were analysed in medical charts and 12 cases of alpha-hemolytic streptococcal septicemia were observed (5 cases with infective endocarditis and 7 cases in immunocompromised states).

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) produced by a human T cell hybridoma clone

A macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) was purified to homogeneity from the serum-free culture supernatant of a human T cell hybridoma clone called F5. This clone was established by means of somatic fusion, using the emetine-actinomycin D selection method, and produced a large amount of MIF. The MIF activity in the culture supernatant of F5 cells was not due to contaminating interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), which is known to possess MIF activity. Furthermore, other known cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-1 (IL-1), and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), were also revealed to have MIF activity, but our MIF was different from these known factors. F5 cells produced two species of MIF that could be separated on a phenyl-Sepharose column. MIF-1 (the more hydrophilic species of the two) was purified to homogeneity by sequential hydrophobic chromatography, ion-exchange chromatography, dye ligand affinity chromatography, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) on ion-exchange and reverse-phase columns. Finally, 4600-fold enrichment, as to specific activity, of MIF-1 was achieved. The purified MIF-1 was digested with endoproteinase Lys-C into some peptide fragments and the amino acid sequences of the peptides obtained were determined. No sequence identity between our MIF-1 and other proteins was observed. Then, antibodies were raised against a peptide synthesized according to the determined amino acid sequence. They specifically reacted with MIF-1 and reduced its migration inhibitory activity. Based on these results, we conclude that the determined amino acid sequence was certainly that of MIF-1.

[Severe infections due to Streptococcus milleri in children]

Streptococcus milleri (S. milleri) is found in healthy individuals in the mouth, nasopharynx, throat, vagina and in feces, and has been reported to be isolated from several infectious diseases in man, particularly from abscess in various parts of the body. We report two cases of severe infections due to S. milleri isolated from subdural abscess and pleural empyema. [Case 1] 13 year old boy who had been healthy until he was noticed to have meningeal signs and was diagnosed as left subdural abscess with siagonantritis by cranial CT scans. S. milleri was isolated from subdural abscess and maxillary sinus. [Case 2] 10 year old boy who had encephalitis and severe mental retardation after measles at 6 months of age. He had a fever, dyspnea and chest X-ray abnormalities and was diagnosed as right pleural empyema. Three strains of organism, S milleri, Bacteroides spp. and Fusobacterium nucleatum were isolated from the pleural effusion.

[A severe respiratory distress in a new born infant with double aortic arch without cardiac anomalies]

A 39-day-old girl underwent operation for double aortic arch. She required endotracheal intubation at 23-day-old because of severe respiratory distress. Echocardiography, esophagography and angiocardiography revealed double aortic arch without other cardiac anomalies. At the operation the lesser arch and ductus arteriosus were divided. Soon after the operation her respiratory distress disappeared and fiberbronchoscopic examination showed rapid recovery of the deformed trachea.

Vasospasm after traumatic subarachnoid haemorrhage: transcranial Doppler evaluation. Case report

A case of vasospasm after traumatic subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) is reported here. Transcranial Doppler Sonography (TCD) was used to evaluate mean flow velocity (MFV) changes of the basal cerebral arteries related to vasospasm. Acceleration of MFV of the right middle cerebral artery (MCA) indicating vasospasm was first noted on TCD evaluation, and then proved by carotid angiography (CAG). Evaluation of all TCD results revealed that the process of relaxation or normalization of the spastic artery started from the proximal side of the basal intracranial artery and gradually moving to the distal side. This interesting phenomenon could be a common process found in vasospasm cases.

A new model of brainstem ischemia by embolization technique in cats

An experimental model of brainstem ischemia was developed by embolization technique with cylindrical silicone rubber emboli in cats. The embolus reached the basilar artery in 55 cats (58.5%) and stopped in the upper basilar artery (UB) in 32, the middle basilar artery (MB) in 22 and the lower basilar artery (LB) in one animal. When the basilar artery distal to the embolus was not visualized (type 1) by postoperative vertebral angiogram, Evans blue extravasation was observed in the brainstem caudal to the embolus. When only a filling defect of the basilar artery at the site of the embolus was noted (type 2), dye extravasation was observed in the brainstem around the site of the embolus. In UB type 1, the regional cerebral blood flow of pons and medulla oblongata decreased immediately after embolization, and six hours after embolization it was 11.4 +/- 5.7 (pons) and 11.7 +/- 4.6 ml/100 g/min (medulla oblongata). In UB type 1 and MB type 1 animals, coma, apnea, tetraplegia, and disturbance of swallowing were noted. These animals died within 50 hours after embolization. Animals of UB type 2 and MB type 2 showed neurological deficits, but survived for three days. This paper discusses this method of producing experimental brainstem ischemia, the sites of ischemic lesions, and clinicopathological findings.

Changes of brainstem auditory evoked responses (BAERs) in a brain stem ischemic model using embolization technique in cats, a preliminary study

In order to evaluate brain stem dysfunction related to ischemic process, the authors monitored the Brainstem Auditory Evoked Responses (BAERs) with time in a brain stem ischemic model. 19 adult mongrel cats were divided into two groups: embolization (n = 14) and sham operated control (n = 5). Embolization was done by injecting cylindrical silicone embolus to the right vertebral artery. Each successful embolization of the basilar artery was then confirmed by vertebral angiography. BAERs were monitored before embolization and then 5-10 min, 15 min, 30 min, 60 min, 3 hr and 6 hr after embolization. The presence of ischemic lesion caused by embolization was confirmed by injecting 2% Evans blue solution 30 min before sacrificing the animals. Leakage of the dye was observed. In embolized animals, significant (Student t test, p less than 0.05) delay of interpeak latencies of waves 1-3, 3-5, and 1-5 was observed 15 min after embolization. This delay became more significant (p less than 0.01) 30 min after embolization. These results provide evidence for the usefulness of BAERs monitoring which can be used to complement other diagnostic methods for patients with vertebrobasilar insufficiency and/or infarction.

[Pharmacokinetics and clinical effects of cefdinir 5% fine granules in pediatrics]

Cefdinir (CFDN), a newly developed oral cephalosporin in 5% fine granular form, was administered to 10 boys at 1 hour before meal (in the fasting state) and concentrations of the drug in plasma and urine and its urinary recovery rates were determined. The subjects were divided into 2 groups of 5 boys each; one group received 3 mg/kg of CFDN, and the other, 6 mg/kg. To 6 of the 10 children the drug was administered in the two different dose levels using the cross-over method. To study clinical and bacteriological effects of this drug, a mean dose of 4.6 mg/kg t.i.d. was administered for 8 days on the average to 40 children with various infections; pharyngitis (4 cases), tonsillitis (2), acute bronchitis (2), pneumonia (8), scarlet fever (6), acute purulent otitis media (1), urinary tract infection (12), impetigo (2), phlegmon (1), lymphadenitis (1) and subcutaneous abscess (1). MICs were determined for 6 drugs including CFDN, cefaclor, cefixime (CFIX), methicillin, cloxacillin (MCIPC), amoxicillin (AMPC) against 13 strains of 6 species freshly isolated from children receiving CFDN. An inoculum size of 10(6) cfu/ml was used in the MIC-determinations. Adverse reactions and abnormal laboratory findings attributable to this drug were also examined in these patients. The results obtained are summarized as follows. 1. Mean plasma peak levels of CFDN were observed at 3 hours after administration in both the 3 mg/kg and 6 mg/kg groups with mean peak values of 0.68 and 1.35 micrograms/ml, respectively. Mean half-lives were 2.06 hours in the 3 mg/kg group and 1.61 hours in the 6 mg/kg group, and mean AUCs were 3.5 in the former and 6.5 micrograms.hr/ml in the latter. Thus, dose-response between the 2 doses was observed in plasma levels and AUCs. 2. To 3 patients, CFDN was given in the two different doses using the cross-over method. Mean plasma peak levels of CFDN were 0.71 and 1.31 micrograms/ml in the doses of 3 mg/kg and 6 mg/kg, respectively. Half-lives were 1.39-2.90 hours in the 3 mg/kg group and 1.21-1.48 hours in the 6 mg/kg group, with AUCs of 3.4-3.7 and 4.1-7.5 micrograms.hr/ml, respectively.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

An investigation of vascular anatomy and microvascular architecture of the brainstem in cats

The vascular anatomy and microvascular architecture of the vertebrobasilar system, especially within the brainstem, was investigated in cats. The main branches of the basilar artery were observed and the inner diameters of these vessels were measured on vertebral angiograms. The three-dimensional microvascular architecture was constructed using molded vascular models. The arterial anastomoses between the arteries inside the brainstem were studied using contact microangiograms. The paramedian branch penetrated into the brainstem in a retrograde fashion from the cranial basilar artery, and in an anterograde fashion from the caudal basilar artery. Arterial anastomoses were noted between the circumferential arteries. The frequency of arterial anastomoses was higher and diameters of the anastomotic vessels were larger in the ventrolateral region of the brainstem than in the ventromedial region. Regarding the perforating arteries, the arterial anastomoses were present outside the brainstem. No arterial anastomoses were found inside the brainstem.

Scanning electron microscope study of neuromuscular junctions in different muscle fiber types in the zebra finch and rat

Examination by scanning electron microscopy revealed differences between neuromuscular junctions in the muscle fibers of the zebra finch (bird) and rat. The neuromuscular junctions between the anterior and posterior latissimus dorsi muscles of the zebra finch were compared. The junctions of the former, exclusively slow tonic fibers, were small and numerous along the long axis of a single muscle fiber. The synaptic depressions per junction were few. The junctions of the latter, exclusively fast twitch fibers, were large and consisted of more synaptic depressions than the former. Junctional folds were occasionally found in some depressions. The neuromuscular junctions between the extensor digitorum longus and soleus muscles of the rat were also compared. The former consisted almost entirely of fast twitch muscle fibers, whereas the latter consisted of both slow twitch fibers (75%) and fast twitch fibers (25%). The junctions in the extensor digitorum longus muscle were almost all labyrinthine gutters containing exclusively slit-like junctional folds. In the soleus muscle, two types of junctions were observed. One type was similar to that of the extensor digitorum longus muscle; the other was characterized by labyrinthine gutters containing sparse, narrow slit-like and pit-like junctional folds. We suggest from these structural differences of the subneural apparatuses that the junction of the fast twitch muscle is characterized by the subneural apparatus containing numerous slit-like junctional folds, and that of the slow twitch muscle fiber characterized by the apparatus containing sparse, narrow slit-like and pit-like junctional folds.

[Pharmacokinetics and clinical studies of norfloxacin in the pediatric field]

Norfloxacin (NFLX) tablets with a potency of 50 mg/tablet or 100 mg/tablet were administered at doses of 1 to 4 tablets (1.5 to 6.1 mg/kg) orally 30 minutes before meals to 12 children with ages ranging from 8 years 9 months to 12 years 5 months, and serum/urinary NFLX levels and urinary recovery rates were determined. The drug sensitivity tests for NFLX and 10 other drugs were conducted against 128 strains of Shigella sonnei (10(6) CFU/ml) which had been isolated from pediatric patients with bacillary dysentery. In order to evaluate clinical and bacteriological effects of NFLX and its safety in the pediatric field, NFLX 50 mg tablets were administered t.i.d. (mean 8.3 mg/kg) for 5 days to 42 pediatric patients with bacillary dysentery. Similarly, this drug was administered in b.i.d. or t.i.d. (mean 6.7 mg/kg) for 4 days to 4 pediatric patients with urinary tract infections. The following results were obtained: 1. According to the dosage, the subjects were divided into 3 groups with dose levels 1.5-2.8 mg/kg, 3.1-4.7 mg/kg and 5.2-6.1 mg/kg. These groups had 5, 2 and 5 subjects, respectively. Mean serum drug concentrations for the 3 dosage groups were at peak levels of 0.27, 0.64 and 1.51 micrograms/ml at 4, 2 and 1 hour(s) after administration, respectively. Pharmacokinetic parameters for these dosage groups were as follows: Tmax values were 3.0, 3.0 and 1.2 hours; Cmax values were 0.32, 0.78 and 1.56 micrograms/ml; serum half-lives were 2.2, 2.4 and 2.3 hours; and AUCs were 1.65, 3.98 and 6.06 micrograms.hr/ml, respectively. Thus, dose-dependent responses were observed among the 3 dosage groups. 2. Mean peak urinary drug concentrations for the 3 dosage groups were 45.8, 109.2 and 215.1 micrograms/ml, respectively, and the peaks appeared 2-4 hours after administration. Mean recovery rates up to 8 hours after administration were 18.3%, 24.5% and 28.7%, respectively for the 3 dosages. 3. In a drug sensitivity test against 128 strains of S. sonnei, the most frequent MIC value of NFLX was 0.78 micrograms/ml against 65 strains, followed by 0.39 micrograms/ml for 56 strains. Together, these strains accounted for 94.5% of the strains tested. No resistant strain to this drug was observed and the antibacterial activity of this drug was second only to colistin, similar to that of ofloxacin, better than those of enoxacin and seven other drugs. 4. Clinical efficacy rate of NFLX against bacillary dysentery was 95.2% in 21 cases in which the evaluation was possible.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

A study of the treatment of multiple aneurysms

During the period from January 1975 to December 1988, a total of 28 among 215 cases or 13.0% with multiple aneurysms were seen in the Department of Neurosurgery, Hiroshima University. Classifying by sex, there were 17 males and 11 females with a mean age of 52 years. The number of aneurysms was four in 2 cases, three in 6 cases, and two in 20 cases. By location, there were 13 aneurysms in the anterior communicating artery, 20 in the internal carotid artery, 28 in the middle cerebral artery, 4 in the anterior cerebral artery, and 1 in the posterior inferior cerebellar artery. The incidence of rupture of anterior communicating aneurysm was extremely high being 10 out of 11 cases (90%) followed by that of 3 out of 4 cases (75%) for the anterior cerebral aneurysm. Although the number of cases undergoing surgery during the acute stage has been increasing, there was an unexpectedly long waiting period from onset of the initial symptom to surgery averaging 23.6 days. As a rule, clipping was undertaken for the treatment of ruptured aneurysm. For non-ruptured minor aneurysm, coating and wrapping were sometimes performed to reinforce the aneurysmal wall. All the aneurysms were treated through a single craniotomy simultaneously in 13 cases, by two craniotomies in one day in 10 cases, and by two craniotomies on separate days in 5 cases. The results of surgical treatments were satisfactory in all the cases except for a female who expired following surgery due to vasospasm and GI bleeding.

[A case of jugular foramen meningioma in a child]

The common tumors originating in the jugular foramen are chemodectoma and schwannoma. Jugular foramen meningioma is extremely rare. Review of the literature revealed only seven reported cases of this tumor. The authors present a child case of jugular foramen meningioma with intra and extracranial extension. A 9-year-old boy was admitted to the Department of Neurosurgery, Hiroshima University School of Medicine on March 20, 1985. Since the age of 3, the patient had hoarseness and was found to tilt his neck when he shouted. Since the age of 6, he was found to nod when he swallowed. At the age of 8, he developed swallowing difficulties. On admission, his general condition was unremarkable except for his lean build (126 cm in height and 23 kg in weight). An elastic hard and immobile mass was palpable in the left upper neck deep in the atrophic sternocleidomastoid muscle. Neurological examination revealed involvement of the ninth, tenth, eleventh, and twelfth cranial nerves. A plain skull roentgenogram and laminogram revealed hyperostosis around the left jugular foramen, and narrowing of the canal. CT with contrast enhancement revealed a high density mass in the left cerebellopontine angle extending through the jugular foramen to the left parapharyngeal space. Cerebral angiography did not show any abnormal findings except for complete blockage of the left sigmoid sinus. On April 4, 1985, subtotal removal of the intracranial tumor was performed using suboccipital craniotomy. Then, on July 3, 1985, the left parapharyngeal tumor was excised through a cervicofacial incision. Finally the residual tumor in the jugular foramen was excised using suboccipital approach on August 18, 1986.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Scanning electron microscopic study of denervated and reinnervated neuromuscular junction

Morphological changes of the subneural apparatus (SNA) during denervation and reinnervation are demonstrated using the hamster peroneus longus muscle. One week after nerve section, synaptic grooves (SGs) were more shallow, with lowered sarcoplasmic ridges. After 4 weeks, the whole SNA area was elevated above the sarcolemma as a flat plate, which persisted as a fusiform bulge for more than 8 weeks. There was a rapid and progressive decrease in the number of junctional folds (JFs) and slit-to-pit transformation of their openings. There was no trace of the SNA after 16 weeks. By 4 weeks after nerve suture, SGs were flattened but did not form the plate-like elevation. Many shallow pit-like JFs still persisted. At 10 weeks, deep SGs started to be restored with an increased number of deep slit-like JFs. The SNA recovered its normal structural organization by the week 20. However, a few pit-like vestigial JFs were present outside the groove.

[Hypothalamic pituitary function in brain death patients--from blood pituitary hormones and hypothalamic hormones]

According to the report of the Health and Welfare Ministry's research committee on brain death (1985), "brain death is defined as an irreversible cessation of the total brain function including brain stem." However, in brain death patients, whether the hypothalamic function which belongs to the brain stem function has completely ceased or not is unknown. In order to evaluate the hypothalamic function in brain death patients, the blood levels of the pituitary hormones and hypothalamic hormones were measured, and anterior pituitary stimulation test with triple bolus injection (TRH 500 micrograms, LH-RH 100 micrograms, regular insulin 0.3-0.7 unit/kg) was performed. The subjects were 13 brain death patients whose clinical states fully satisfied the criteria proposed by the committee. 1) The average blood levels of anterior pituitary hormones in these brain death patients were within normal range, and that of growth hormone was more than the twice of the normal level. 2) The blood anterior pituitary hormones were detectable in almost all cases even several days after the diagnosis of the brain death. 3) LH reserve was maintained in three cases. FSH reserve was maintained in three cases. Prolactin reserve was maintained in two cases. TSH reserve was maintained in one case. 4) Blood ADH (antidiuretic hormones) were detectable in 7 cases out of 9 cases. The blood ADH level of one case, in particular, was rather high (above 10 pg/ml). 5) Histopathologically anterior pituitaries were examined in three autopsy cases. The central necrotic areas were observed in all cases, but normal pituitary tissues existed peripherally. And all anterior pituitary hormones could be recognized immunohistochemically. 6) The blood levels of the hypothalamic hormones (GRF, CRF, LH-RH) were measured in four cases. The hypothalamic hormones were detectable in all cases. In one case, the levels of GRF were within normal range even 9 or 15 days after the diagnosis of brain death.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

A case of Klinefelter's syndrome associated with hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction caused by an intracranial germ cell tumor

A 17 year-old boy was admitted to the hospital because of thirst, polyuria (5-61/day), delayed sexual development and muscle weakness. He appeared obese, had an eunuchoidal body habitus and was excessively tall. Chromosomal analysis revealed a 47XXY karyotype. Serum cortisol was 1.3 microgram/dl, LH, 10.4 mIU/ml, FSH, 2.0 mIU/ml, and testosterone, 10 ng/dl. Endocrinological dynamic tests indicated diabetes insipidus and hypopituitarism of a hypothalamic type. Brain CT disclosed the existence of a tumor shadow around the calcified pineal body, extending towards the suprasellar region. Replacement therapy with glucocorticoid and DDAVP was started. The patient complained of a headache and plasma AFP and hCG concentrations were 868 ng/ml and 68.6 IU/ml respectively. A hCG- and AFP- producing germ cell tumor was suspected and radiation therapy with 60Co was performed. Plasma AFP and hCG were decreased with significant clinical improvement. Soon after irradiation, he started to complain of a headache and had elevated AFP and hCG levels. Right hemiparesis and unconsciousness suddenly appeared and he died of left thalamic bleeding. This is the first case of Klinefelter's syndrome associated with intracranial germ cell tumor. Plasma testosterone levels fluctuated in parallel with the change in plasma hCG levels. This shows that the Leydig cells in this patient could respond to some extent to tumor-producing hCG.

[Intracranial hemorrhage associated with pregnancy--4 case reports and a review of the literature]

Four cases of intracranial hemorrhage associated with pregnancy are reported. They were a ruptured anterior communicating aneurysm, a ruptured AVM of cerebellar hemisphere, a lt-thalamic and putaminal hemorrhage and brain stem hemorrhage. As the mode of hemorrhage, one case was a subarachnoid hemorrhage, one case was a subarachnoid hemorrhage combined with a cerebellar hemorrhage and other two cases were intraparenchymal hemorrhage. The mean age of these 4 cases was 29.5 years of age from 25 to 35. One case was occurred the intracranial hemorrhage during the first trimester but other 3 cases was occurred during the third trimester. It was, thus, considered the intracranial hemorrhage associated with pregnancy was more frequently occurred during the third trimester. Primigravida and multigravida were equally occurred on each two cases. It was not related to parity. Consciousness levels were drowsiness; one case, semicoma; two cases and deep coma; one case. A case of ruptured anterior communicating aneurysm underwent neck clipping of aneurysm through the rt-fronto-temporal craniotomy on the first day of the attack. This case fully recovered, but the other three cases of severely impaired consciousness level were dead. Maternal prognosis was related to consciousness level. We mentioned the preferred neurosurgical and obstetrical management to the intracranial hemorrhage associated with pregnancy.

Big form of gamma-melanotropin-like immunoreactivity in normal human plasma

Using a radioimmunoassay for gamma 3-melanotropin (gamma 3-MSH), gamma-melanotropin-like immunoreactivity (gamma-MSH-LI) was detected in plasma extracts of normal subjects before and after metyrapone administration. Plasma gamma-MSH-LI from four normal men rose significantly after a single oral administration of metyrapone (30 mg/kg of body weight). Gel chromatographic study of plasma extract after metyrapone administration showed a single peak of gamma-MSH-LI near the elution position of mouse 16K fragment, however smaller forms of gamma-MSH-LI were not detected.

A case report of pancreatic metastasis of an intracranial angioblastic meningioma (hemangiopericytoma) and a review of metastatic tumor to the pancreas

The authors report a case of solitary metastasis to the pancreas from an intracranial angioblastic meningioma (hemangiopericytoma) and discuss secondary (metastatic) tumors of the pancreas. A 65-year-old man developed a pancreatic tumor 15 years after the craniotomy was performed for a parasagittal meningioma. Histological investigation of the pancreatic tumor excised as a biopsy on exploratory laparotomy revealed a tumor identical to the intracranial meningioma. It was concluded that the intracranial angioblastic meningioma had recurred and metastasized to the pancreas.

gamma 1-Melanotropin-like immunoreactivity in bovine and human adrenocorticotropin-producing tissues

gamma 1 MSH-like immunoreactivity in bovine pituitary glands, hypothalami, human pituitary glands, ectopic ACTH-producing tumors, and human gastric antral mucosa was investigated using a newly developed RIA for gamma 1 MSH. The minimum detectable quantity of gamma 1 MSH was 3 pg/tube, and the antibody did not cross-react with gamma 2 MSH, gamma 3 MSH, alpha MSH, beta MSH, ACTH, beta-lipotropin, or beta-endorphin. Bovine anterior pituitary, intermediate-posterior pituitary, and hypothalamus contained more than two molecular weight forms of gamma 1 MSH-like immunoreactivities. On the other hand, gamma 1 MSH-like immunoreactivity was not detected in human pituitary glands or human gastric antral mucosa, but was detected in one of seven ectopic ACTH-producing tumors. These results suggest a limited processing of the ACTH-beta-lipotropin precursor to gamma 1 MSH in human tissues, although a rapid degradation of gamma 1 MSH could not be ruled out completely.

Biosynthesis and distribution of opioid peptides

Group III opioid peptides are derived from proenkephalin B. The processing of this precursor peptide is still only partly understood and we still do not know how many final products come from proenkephalin B and whether Leu-enkephalin is produced from Group III peptides. However, potent biologic activity of Group III opioid peptides and existence of opiate-receptors specific for these peptides (k receptors) strongly suggest that Group III opioid peptides are not precursors of Leu-enkephalin but bioactive substances per se. Further studies should clarify details of the processing of proenkephalin B.

Experimental microsurgical embolectomy after middle cerebral artery embolization in the dog

The effects of microsurgical embolectomy were investigated clinicopathophysiologically in 60 dogs after occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) trunk with a silicone cylinder embolus. One group of animals served as a control (non-embolectomized group), and in the other two groups the embolus was removed 3 or 6 hours after occlusion (3-hour or 6-hour embolectomy group). In the non-embolectomized animals, major neurological deficits with deep cerebral infarction were observed. Regional cerebral blood flow (CBF) in the basal ganglia decreased most prominently. Sensory evoked potentials also declined to about 50% of the control level 3 hours after embolization. In the 3-hour embolectomy group, mild neurological deficits with minimal infarctions were found. One hour after embolectomy, CBF was restored to the original level in all regions, and the sensory evoked potentials surpassed the control level. In the 6-hour embolectomy group, most animals exhibited major neurological deficits and severe brain swelling with hemorrhagic infarction. This study suggests that early microsurgical embolectomy of the MCA trunk restores blood flow in the perforating arteries and prevents deep cerebral infarction.

Characterization of gamma-melanotropin-like immunoreactivity and its secretion in an adrenocorticotropin-producing mouse pituitary tumor cell line

gamma MSH, a putative hormone in the N-terminal region of the ACTH/beta-endorphin (beta-EP) precursor protein, was studied by RIA with an antiserum against gamma 3MSH in ACTH-producing mouse pituitary tumor cells, AtT-20/D16v. Serial dilution of the culture medium or the cell extract gave parallel lines to the standard curve in the RIA for gamma MSH. Rat median eminence extracts enhanced the release of gamma MSH-like immunoreactivity (gamma MSH-LI) concomitant with ACTH-like immunoreactivity (ACTH-LI) and beta-EP-like immunoreactivity (beta-EP-LI). Dexamethasone suppressed the release of gamma MSH-LI as well as ACTH-LI and beta-EP-LI. Gel exclusion chromatography of the culture medium and the cell extract has revealed that gamma MSH-LI consists of two peaks; one eluted near the elution position of beta-lipotropin and the other near the elution position of beta-EP. There was no peak corresponding to the elution position of synthetic gamma 3MSH. However, sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) has demonstrated that gamma MSH-LI migrated at five positions with molecular weights of 31K, 21-23K, 16-17K, 13-14K, and 3.8K, respectively. The 31K gamma MSH coincided with the migration position of 31K ACTH of 31K beta-EP, and 21-23K gamma MSH coincided with the position of 21-23K ACTH on SDS-PAGE. The 16-17K gamma MSH coincided with the mouse 16K fragment (reported by Eipper and Mains) of ACTH-beta-lipotropin precursor protein in the migration in SDS-PAGE and in immunoreactivity to anti-gamma MSH antiserum. [3H]Glucosamine was incorporated into 16K, 13K, and 3.8K gamma MSH. These results suggest that AtT-20/D16v cells produce gamma MSH-LIs with molecular weights of 31K, 21-23K, 16-17K, 13-14K, and 3.8K, and they are secreted concomitantly with ACTH-LI and beta-EP-LI.

Presence of immunoreactive gamma-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, adrenocorticotropin, and beta-endorphin in human gastric antral mucosa

gamma MSH-like, ACTH-like, and beta-endorphin-like immunoreactivities (gamma MSH-LI, ACTH-LI, and beta-endorphin-LI, respectively) were detected in water extracts of four human gastric antral mucosa. The concentrations of gamma MSH-LI, ACTH-LI, and beta-endorphin-LI in the boiling water extracts were 9.9 +/- 3.3, 6.2 +/- 1.8, and 3.9 +/- 1.3 ng/g (mean +/- SE), respectively. Gel exclusion chromatography on a Bio-Gel P-60 column showed that most ACTH-LI and beta-endorphin-LI were eluted at the elution positions of human ACTH and beta-endorphin, respectively. The major peak of gamma MSH-LI was eluted at the elution position of big gamma MSH-LI, but another peak was eluted at the elution position of small gamma MSH-LI, as in bovine intermediate pituitary. Concanavalin A-agarose affinity chromatography showed that 52% of gamma MSH-LI was specifically bound to the column, but only 8% of ACTH-LI and none of beta-endorphin-LI were specifically bound. These results suggest that there exists an ACTH/beta-lipotropin common precursor protein in human antral mucosa and that the processing of the precursor is accelerated as a bovine intermediate pituitary, indicating possible roles of these peptides in the function of the gastrointestinal tract.