Aplysinoplides A-C, cytotoxic sesterterpenes from the marine sponge Aplysinopsis digitata

Three sesterterpenoids, aplysinoplides A-C (1- 3), were isolated from the marine sponge Aplysinopsis digitata. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectroscopic data. They exhibited cytotoxic activity against P388 mouse leukemia cells.

Original film of the Okabayashi's radical hysterectomy by Okabayashi himself in 1932, and two films of the precise anatomy necessary for nerve-sparing Okabayashi's radical hysterectomy clarified by Shingo Fujii

Almost 100 years ago, radical hysterectomy was established by Ernst Wertheim as the surgical technique for the treatment of invasive cervical cancer. However, due to the complicated anatomy of the female pelvis, the method has been modified by many surgeons. Among these modifications, the method by Hidekazu Okabayashi at Kyoto Imperial University in Japan, published in 1921, was more radical and outstanding. Then, Okabayashi's method became a standard surgical procedure for invasive cervical cancer in Japan. We have discovered the historical film of radical hysterectomy performed by Okabayashi himself in 1932. In order to share the information of Okabayashi's radical hysterectomy, we decided to distribute the film through the website of IJGC. Moreover, as the direct descendant of Okabayashi, I have further modified the operation clarifying precise anatomy necessary for Okabayashl's radical hysterectomy. In addition, I also clarified the anatomy necessary for nerve sparing Okabayashi's radical hysterectomy. These two films modified by Shingo Fujii are also available on the IJGC website in the hope that these anatomical findings will be useful for young gynecologic surgeons.

Removal efficiency of 66 pharmaceuticals during wastewater treatment process in Japan

Both biological treatment processes including conventional activated sludge (CAS) and biological nutrient removal (BNR) processes, and physico-chemical treatment processes including ozonation process and Title 22 process consisting of coagulation, sedimentation and filtration followed by UV or chlorination disinfection after the above biological processes, were compared from the viewpoint of removal efficiency. 66 pharmaceuticals including antibiotics, analgesics, psychoneurotic agents were measured with SPE-LC/MS/MS. 26 compounds out of 66 were detected in the influent ranging ng/L to microg/L order. Particularly, disopyramide, sulpiride, and dipyridamole that have been rarely detected before in the WWTP, occurred at concentration levels of more than 100 ng/L. The total concentration of the individual pharmaceuticals in the influent was efficiently removed by 80% during the biological treatment. But removal efficiencies of carbamazepine and crotamiton were less than 30%. The total concentration of the individual pharmaceuticals in the effluent from CAS process was 1.5 times higher than that from BNR process. Further, the total concentration of the individual pharmaceuticals in the discharge from WWTPs applying ozonation following activated sludge process was reduced to less than 20%. Physico-chemical treatment train called Title 22 treatment after CAS could not efficiently remove the pharmaceuticals. However, ozonation process followed by biological activated carbon process could efficiently reduce all the residual pharmaceuticals below their quantification limits.

Cerebral cortical and white matter lesions in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis with dementia: correlation with MR and pathologic examinations

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis with dementia (ALSD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, characterized clinically by motor neuron symptoms and dementia, and pathologically by degeneration of the motor neurons of the brain and spinal cord as well as atrophy of the frontal and/or temporal lobes. So far, there has been no study on the correlation of MR images with histologic findings in ALSD. We studied the correlation of antemortem and postmortem T2-weighted MR images with histologic findings in autopsy-proved cases of ALSD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Antemortem and postmortem T2-weighted images were compared with histologic findings in 3 autopsy-proved cases of ALSD.

RESULTS

Antemortem MR images showed atrophy of the frontal and temporal lobes, which were asymmetric in the medial-ventral part of the temporal lobe. Faint linear T2-hyperintensity was seen in the medial-ventral part of the temporal subcortical white matter in 1 case. Postmortem T2-weighted images showed linear subcortical hyperintensity in the ventral-medial temporal lobe in each case. Histologically, cortical atrophy on MR images showed spongiform change with neuronal loss and gliosis especially in the superficial layers and linear subcortical hyperintensity on T2-weighted images showed degeneration and gliosis in each case. These findings are characteristic histologic changes of ALSD.

CONCLUSION

MR imaging of atrophy of the frontal and temporal lobes with linear subcortical hyperintensities in the anteromedial temporal lobe is useful for diagnosis of ALSD.

Synthesis of poly(2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate) latex particles via aqueous dispersion polymerization

Poly(2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate) latexes were prepared by aqueous dispersion polymerization at 60 °C using poly(-vinylpyrrolidone) [PNVP] as a steric stabilizer. The mean latex diameter can be controlled over a wide range by varying the synthesis parameters (initiator type, stabilizer concentration, addition of co-surfactant or comonomer), and narrow size distributions were observed in most cases. These sterically-stabilized latex particles were characterized by electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, Malvern Mastersizer and FT-IR spectroscopy. The presence of the PNVP stabilizer at the surface of the latex particles was confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and the stabilizer content was assessed by H NMR spectroscopy and nitrogen microanalyses. Colloidally stable surfactant-stabilized poly(2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate) latexes could also be prepared in the absence of any PNVP stabilizer. Since 2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate contains a small amount of dimethacrylate impurity, these latexes are actually lightly cross-linked; their degree of swelling in DO, d-methanol and d-pyridine was investigated using dynamic light scattering and H NMR spectroscopy. Finally, three ionic water-soluble comonomers were successfully copolymerized with 2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate under aqueous dispersion conditions, as judged by aqueous electrophoresis studies.

Wallerian degeneration of the corticospinal tracts: postmortem MR-pathologic correlations

Postmortem magnetic resonance (MR) images were correlated with the histological findings in two autopsy-proven cases of Wallerian degeneration of the corticospinal and corticopontine tracts associated with cerebral embolic infarction. T2 hyperintensities seen in Wallerian degeneration showed vacuolation of myelin in the early stage, and marked loss of myelin and axons with macrophages in the subacute and chronic stages. Similar T2 hyperintensities seen in the different stages of Wallerian degeneration reflect different histological findings.

Multi-institutional phase II study of carboplatin-gemcitabine combination chemotherapy in elderly patients (pts) with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

18179

Background: Because elderly pts may tolerate platinum-based combination chemotherapy poorly, single-agent chemotherapy is selected for the treatment regimen. However, retrospective subgroup analyses have consistently indicated that elderly pts indeed benefit from platinum-based combination chemotherapy as well as their younger counterparts. This phase II study evaluated the efficacy and safety of carboplatin-gemcitabine combination chemotherapy in elderly pts with advanced NSCLC. Methods: Fifty-four pts aged more than 70 years old (median, 77; range, 70–88) with previously untreated advanced NSCLC were enrolled on this trial. Additional criteria included the presence of measurable lesions, an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0 or 1, and adequate organ function. Pts received carboplatin at an area under the curve of 4 mg/ml/min on the first day and gemcitabine at 1000 mg/m2 on the first and eighth day of consecutive 3 week periods. The primary endpoint was to determine the objective response rate of this platinum-doublet regimen. The RECIST criteria were used to measure response. Results: Enrolled pts included 15/39 with stage IIIB/IV diseases. Fifty-one out of enrolled pts were eligible for efficacy and safety analyses. The median number of treatment cycles was 4 (range, 1–7). Fifteen partial responses (response rate: 29%) were obtained. The median TTP was 118 days. Hematological toxicities of grade 3/4 included leukopenia (46%), neutropenia (72%) and thrombocytopenia (50%). Non-hematological toxicities of grade 3/4 included nausea (6%), appetite loss (7%), fatigue (7%) and infection (9%). Conclusions: The combination carboplatin-gemcitabine at these doses has shown activity with a favorable toxicity profile for fit elderly pts with advanced NSCLC.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Production of nerve growth factor enhanced in cultured mouse astrocytes by glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, and their related compounds

The NGF secretion from cultured mouse astrocytes was enhanced by sublethal concentrations of phosphatidic acid (PA), ceramide, or sphingosine (Sph), and concentration dependently by lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), sphingosylphosphorylcholine (SPC), or sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), but was unaffected by any concentrations of phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) or sphingomyelin (SM). The enhancement of NGF synthesis by Sph was completely inhibited by the addition of ceramide synthase inhibitor, fumonisin B1. LPA and S1P showed similar hyperbolic curves with maximum NGF secretion at concentrations of more than 50 microM, but they showed no proliferative effect on quiescent astrocytes. The mechanisms underlying the stimulation of NGF synthesis by 50 microM LPA and 50 microM S1P were further investigated by using various inhibitors. One of the protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitors, Gö6976, suppressed the LPA- and S1P-stimulated NGF synthesis by 70 and 80%, respectively. LPA and S1P were found to activate common multiple signaling pathways for NGF production, involving the activation of the protein kinase C (PKC), mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase, and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI-3K) pathways.

Hyperintense putaminal rim at 3T reflects fewer ferritin deposits in the lateral marginal area of the putamen

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to clarify the cause of hyperintense putaminal rim (HPR) on the basis of 3T MR imaging-pathologic correlations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We evaluated brain MR images from 75 subjects 13 to 85 years of age on T2-weighted fast spin-echo (FSE) images at 3T. We also assessed HPR on postmortem T2-weighted FSE images from 4 postmortem cases 1, 12, 63, and 83 years of age. To clarify the cause of HPR, we used 3 staining methods: the Klüver-Barrera method to observe the myelin sheath, the Berlin blue method to observe hemosiderin, and ferritin immunohistochemistry to observe ferritin. The postmortem MR images were compared with the histologic findings in each case.

RESULTS

HPR was absent or vague in subjects under 30 years of age but present in subjects in their 30s-60s and again became vague in those subjects older than 70 years of age. The postmortem MR imaging-pathologic correlations revealed that ferritin deposits were slight in the lateral marginal area of the putamen in the 63-year-old subject showing present HPR, but in the 83-year-old subject with no HPR, ferritin deposits were prominent in the lateral marginal area of the putamen as well as in other areas.

CONCLUSION

Age-related disproportion in ferritin deposits between the lateral marginal area and the remainder of the putamen causes hypointensity of the latter and the relative hyperintensity of the former, which is depicted as HPR with 3T MR imaging.

Protection from photodamage by topical application of caffeine after ultraviolet irradiation

BACKGROUND

Characterization of mechanisms that can reverse residual damage from prior skin exposure to ultraviolet (UV) would be of considerable biological and therapeutic interest. Topical caffeine application to mouse skin that had previously been treated with UV has been shown to inhibit the subsequent development of squamous cell carcinomas.

OBJECTIVES

We used an established mouse photodamage model to investigate other possible effects of topical caffeine application after UV.

METHODS

SKH-1 hairless mice were treated with ultraviolet B (UVB) followed immediately by topical application of caffeine or vehicle three times weekly for 11 weeks.

RESULTS

Caffeine applied topically after UV treatment resulted in a significant decrease in UV-induced skin roughness/transverse rhytides as assessed by treatment-blinded examiners. Histologically, topical caffeine application after a single dose of UVB more than doubled the number of apoptotic keratinocytes as evaluated by sunburn cell formation, caspase 3 cleavage and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick-end labelling (TUNEL) staining. A trend towards decreased solar elastosis was noted in the caffeine-treated group although this was not statistically significant. Other histological parameters including epidermal hyperplasia, solar elastosis and angiogenesis were increased in mice treated with UV but topical application of caffeine did not alter these particular UV effects.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings support the concept that topical application of caffeine to mouse skin after UV irradiation promotes the deletion of DNA-damaged keratinocytes and may partially diminish photodamage as well as photocarcinogenesis.

Clinical outcomes of uterine sarcomas: results from 14 years worth of experience in the Kinki district in Japan (1990-2003)

To review clinical outcomes and therapeutic varieties, we were invited to submit data from the patients who were treated for uterine sarcomas in Japan from 1990 to 2003. Uterine sarcomas were defined as leiomyosarcoma (LMS), endometrial stromal sarcoma (ESS), and carcinosarcoma (CS). Of a total of 97 patients, 36 (37.1%) were diagnosed with LMS of the uterine corpus, 15 (15.5%) with ESS, 46 (47.4%) with CS. Median age at diagnosis was 59 (21-85) years. Clinical stages based on FIGO were 41 (42.3%) with stage I disease, 6 (6.2%) with staged II, 34 (35.1%) with stage III, and 16 (16.5%) with stage IV. The median follow-up period for all patients was 13 (1-108) months and median disease-free period was 9 (0-96) months. The 1-year survival rate and disease-free survival (DFS) rate were calculated in patients with all sarcomas (overall survival [OAS], 61.3%; DFS, 46.6%). Statistical analysis showed that younger age (less than 50 years), early stage (stages I and II), and surgical procedure (extended hysterectomy [EH] and radical hysterectomy [RH]) were associated with significantly better OAS. Histologic types did not affect the survival period. In conclusion, aggressive surgery including EH or RH at the time of initial operation offers the possibility of prolonged survival.

Colonic J-pouch decreases bowel frequency by improving the evacuation ratio

BACKGROUND/AIMS

To compare the functional outcome of ultra-low anterior resection for rectal cancer with colonic J-pouch reconstruction with that of straight reconstruction.

METHODOLOGY

Twenty-three patients who underwent ultra-low anterior resection with or without J-pouch reconstruction underwent bowel transit study, videodefecography, and answered a questionnaire survey 4 months and 1 year after surgery. Eleven healthy subjects underwent similar testing as controls.

RESULTS

Patients with a J-pouch had less frequent stools than patients with straight reconstruction 4 months after surgery (p<0.05), but the two groups were similar at 1 year. Bowel transit time was similar at both study points. The evacuation ratio was higher after J-pouch than straight reconstruction 4 months after surgery (p<0.05). However, the ratio improved in the straight group, and no difference existed at 1 year. Colonic contraction was seen only near the anastomosis 4 months after surgery, but the contraction proximal to the anastomosis improved over the next 8 months.

CONCLUSIONS

J-pouch reconstruction facilitates evacuation by improving the evacuation ratio. Although straight anastomosis caused excessive stool frequency 4 months after surgery, colonic function continued to improve and was comparable with J-pouch and straight reconstruction 1 year after surgery because the contraction ratio proximal to the anastomosis improved.

Increased cyclooxygenase-2 expression is correlated with suppressed antitumor immunity in cervical adenocarcinomas

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibition suppressed the growth of various tumors. The augmentation of antitumor immunity by increasing cytotoxic lymphocytes may be an important mechanism for COX-2 inhibition. Among cervical cancers, adenocarcinomas present more aggressive behavior and overexpressed COX-2. The expression of COX-2 and the CD8+ lymphocyte infiltrations were evaluated in this study by immunohistochemistry. We studied COX-2 expression and CD8+ lymphocyte infiltration in 55 women with cervical adenocarcinomas. COX-2 expression and tumor stromal CD8+ lymphocytes were evaluated by semiquantified methods. Tumor intraepithelial lymphocytes were counted under microscopic field of x200. Correlations between these data and other clinicopathologic features were investigated. Thirty-seven out of 55 (67.3%) cervical adenocarcinomas significantly expressed COX-2. Patients who died within 5 years showed higher percentage of COX-2 expression than survivors (100% vs 58.1%, P < 0.05). Victims also showed lesser intraepithelial CD8+ lymphocyte counts than survived patients (3.4 vs 26.4, P < 0.05). COX-2 expression and tumor intraepithelial lymphocyte count were reversely correlated with each other (correlation index: -0.38, P < 0.01). Up-regulated COX-2 expression and lesser tumor intraepithelial CD8+ lymphocyte count are poor prognostic indicators for cervical adenocarcinoma patients. COX-2 may play an important role in the suppression of host antitumor immunity in cervical adenocarcinomas.

Intrauterine administration of autologous peripheral blood mononuclear cells promotes implantation rates in patients with repeated failure of IVF–embryo transfer

BACKGROUND

There are few effective approaches to infertile patients with repeated failure in IVF-embryo transfer therapy. Since recent evidence suggests that some populations of maternal immune cells positively support embryo implantation, we have developed a new approach using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs).

METHODS

Patients who had not experienced successful pregnancy despite four or more IVF-embryo transfer sessions were enrolled in this study (n = 35, 35 cycles). PBMCs were obtained from patients on the day of oocyte retrieval and were cultured with HCG for 48 h. Two days later, PBMCs were freshly isolated from patients again, combined with cultured PBMC and then administered to the intrauterine cavity of the patients. Blastocyst transfer was performed on day 5, and the success of implantation in the PBMC-treated group was compared with that in the non-treated group.

RESULTS

Clinical pregnancy rate, implantation rate and live birth rate in the PBMC-treated group (41.2, 23.4 and 35.3%; n = 17, 47 and 16, respectively) were significantly higher than those in the non-treated group (11.1, 4.1 and 5.5%; n = 18, 49 and 18, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Intrauterine administration of autologous PBMC may be an effective approach to improve embryo implantation in patients with repeated IVF failures.

Clinical characteristics of acute encephalopathy of obscure origin: a biphasic clinical course is a common feature

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical characteristics of acute encephalopathy of obscure origin (AE).

STUDY DESIGN

We examined clinical, imaging, and laboratory findings in children with AE. Specific subtypes of AE such as Reye's syndrome (RS), acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE), hemorrhagic shock and encephalopathy (HSE), acute encephalitis with refractory, repetitive partial seizures (AERRPS), and hemiconvulsion-hemiplegia syndrome (HH) were diagnosed. Other AE patients were regarded as non-specific subtype.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients were identified; specific AEs in 14 and non-specific AE in 5. Patients with RS, ANE, HSE frequently showed neuroimaging abnormalities (9/9) and significant elevation of liver enzymes (7/9) within 2 days after onset. Prognoses were extremely poor; early death in 6 and severe neurological sequelae in 3. Two of the 3 HH patients and 4 of the 5 non-specific AE patients showed biphasic clinical courses (AEBC); consciousness levels transiently improved following initial seizures and were exacerbated at the fourth to sixth days. In AEBC, neuroimaging abnormalities were rarely observed during the acute phase (1/5) but were detectable at clinical exacerbation. They rarely showed severely abnormal elevation in liver enzymes (1/6) and resulted in mild to moderate neurological sequelae (6/6).

CONCLUSION

A biphasic clinical course is a common feature in HH and non-specific AE.

Stimulation of cAMP signalling allows isolation of clonal pancreatic precursor cells from adult mouse pancreas

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Duct cells of the pancreas are thought to include latent progenitors of islet endocrine cells that can be induced to differentiate by appropriate morphogens. Here we developed a method for isolating pancreatic ductal epithelial cells from adult mice that overcomes the shortcomings of previous methods.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Pancreatic ductal cells were grown in serum-free DMEM/F12 medium in the presence of cholera toxin or 8-bromo-cyclic adenosine monophosphate, which is known to be an intracellular cAMP generator. Single cell cloning was performed by limiting dilution in serum-free medium.

RESULTS

The isolated clonal cells expressed high levels of cytokeratin and Ipf1 (formerly known as Pdx-1). Adenovirus-mediated expression of ngn3 (also known as Neurog3) and Ptf1a in these cells induced expression of insulin and somatostatin, and of carboxypeptidase A, respectively. Furthermore, albumin production was induced by dexamethasone or by long-term culture in serum-containing medium.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Stimulation of the cAMP-dependent signalling allowed us to isolate clonal pancreatic ductal cells from adult mice. These cells are able to partially differentiate into endocrine cells, exocrine cells and hepatocyte-like cells and are therefore considered to have the characteristics of endodermal progenitor cells.

Ovarian leukocyte distribution and cytokine/chemokine mRNA expression in follicular fluid cells in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

BACKGROUND

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 5-10% of reproductive-aged women and is commonly associated with anovulatory infertility. Leukocytes, together with granulosa cells, may contribute to the pathogenesis of PCOS via their ability to secrete an array of cytokines implicated in follicle growth. The aim of this study was to examine leukocyte subtypes in follicular phase ovaries and to quantify cytokine and chemokine mRNA expression in follicular fluid cells obtained at the time of oocyte retrieval before IVF in women with and without PCOS.

METHODS

Ovaries were immunostained for various leukocyte markers [CD3, CD4, CD14, CD15, CD45, CD45RA, CD45RO, CD57 and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II]. In addition, follicular fluid cells were subjected to quantitative RT-PCR to evaluate colony-stimulating factor-1 (CSF-1), granulocyte-macrophage (GM)-CSF, interleukins (IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-10), monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP-1) and tumour necrosis factor (TNFalpha) mRNA expression relative to beta-actin.

RESULTS

CD45RO+ cells (activated/memory T lymphocytes) were reduced by 60% in the theca layer of follicles from PCOS women. The relative abundance of macrophages and neutrophils was unchanged. Cytokine and chemokine mRNA transcripts examined were not affected by PCOS status. There was an association between high BMI and high TNFalpha and low IL-6 mRNA expression in follicular cells. IL-6 expression was higher in women who subsequently achieved pregnancy.

CONCLUSIONS

T lymphocytes potentially play a role in the local pathological mechanisms of PCOS. Further studies are required to identify their contribution to the aetiology of this common condition.

Aqueous particulate foams stabilized solely with polymer latex particles

In this article, a wide range of latexes are evaluated as possible foam stabilizers. These include near-monodisperse, poly(N-vinyl pyrrolidone)-stabilized polystyrene [PNVP-PS] latexes with diameters ranging from 170 nm to 1.62 microm, submicrometer-sized poly(ethylene glycol)-stabilized polystyrene [PEGMA-PS] latex particles, a PNVP-stabilized poly(4-bromostyrene) [PNVP-PBrS] latex with a mean diameter of 870 nm, two PNVP-stabilized poly(methyl methacrylate) [PNVP-PMMA] latexes with mean diameters of 730 nm and 1.20 microm, a PNVP-stabilized poly(2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate) [PNVP-PHPMA] latex with a mean diameter of 630 nm, and a charge-stabilized anionic PS latex of 220 nm diameter. The effect of varying the particle size, latex concentration, and latex surface composition on foam stability were studied in detail. The larger PNVP-PS latexes, the PNVP-PBrS, and the two PNVP-PMMA latexes gave highly stable foams, whereas PEGMA-PS, PNVP-PHPMA, and the charge-stabilized PS latex produced either no foams or foams with inferior long-term stabilities. Scanning electron microscopy studies revealed hexagonally close-packed latex arrays in the walls of the dried foam, which leads to localized moiré patterns being observed by optical microscopy. Moreover, these dried foams are highly iridescent in bright transmitted light.

Biphasic clinical course and early white matter abnormalities may be indicators of neurological sequelae after status epilepticus in children

Clinical course and serial neuroimaging findings are not fully described in children who have had neurological sequelae following status epilepticus. We found four patients who had neurological sequelae out of 42 children with status epilepticus in 2004. MRI studies were reviewed with specific attention to diffusion-weighted images (DWI) and the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC). Proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6, were measured in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) (3 patients). The clinical course showed biphasic; initial status epilepticus and neurological exacerbation along with seizure recurrence four to five days after onset. Within three days after initial status epilepticus, CT (all patients) and MRI (2 patients) did not show any abnormalities. From four to ten days after onset, MRI demonstrated diffuse hyperintensity in the cerebral white matter on DWI and hypointensity on ADC maps in all patients. Diffuse brain atrophy progressed thereafter. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha or interleukin-6 was elevated in all patients. A biphasic clinical course may be a specific feature for neurological sequelae. The preferential white matter involvement on MRI and elevated CSF cytokines indicate that glial dysfunction may play an important role in the pathophysiology of status epilepticus-associated cerebral damage.

Size and viscoelasticity of spatially confined multilamellar vesicles

We studied viscoelastic properties and scaling behavior of multilamellar vesicles (MLVs) confined between two parallel plates as a function of the shear rate and sample thickness (gap size between parallel plates). The rheological properties are classified into two regimes; the shear-thinning regime at high shear rates and the shear-thickening regime at low shear rates. In the former, the MLV radius results from the mechanical balance between the effective surface tension sigma(eff) and viscous stress force. The MLV radius is independent of the gap size. sigmaeff estimated by van der Linden model is 2.1+/-0.15x10(-4) Nm-1 corresponding to the same value obtained by SANS measurement. Power law exponents for the steady state viscosity and yield stress against pre-shear rate ([see text], [see text]) well agree with prediction based on the layering of membranes. Therefore, viscoelastic properties in this regime could be modeled by assuming that the dynamics of MLVs are driven by layering of MLV polydomains, which could be accompanied by the viscous dissipation, i.e., the stress relaxation on the MLV, induced by continuous sequence of yields of MLVs. The flow curve is empirically explained by the assumption of a relaxation time for the MLV shape. In the latter, however, scaling laws observed in the shear-thinning regime break down. The MLV radius increases when the gap size is reduced below the threshold value and MLV is no longer formed at very small gap sizes. Different dynamics from the shear-thinning regime seem to dominate the viscoelasticity.

Positron emission tomography application for gynecologic tumors

Positron emission tomography (PET) using fluorine-18-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose (FDG), which originated as a research tool to evaluate glucose metabolism in cancer tissues, has now become an essential imaging modality for determining the appropriate therapeutic management of various cancer patients. The clinical role of FDG-PET for gynecologic tumors has not been established yet, but FDG-PET has come to be considered one of the important imaging modalities for evaluating patients with gynecological cancers. The objective was to review the literature regarding the utility of FDG-PET in the clinical setting of gynecological malignancies. Many articles reported that FDG-PET could be used for staging and restaging in patients with uterine cervical cancer. Although there is limited data about the feasibility of FDG-PET for endometrial cancer, preliminary results for detecting recurrence were promising. Furthermore, FDG-PET has been reported as a useful imaging modality, especially for restaging, in ovarian cancer, although the prognostic value needs to be fully investigated. Currently, a combined PET/computed tomography scanner is available, and its clinical application has begun. It is expected that this modality will contribute to the management of gynecological cancers, as has been reported recently for other malignancies.

Analysis of parameter variations in L-Q equations for river runoff processes from the viewpoint of spatial and temporal conditions

This study aims to find out variation characteristics of the parameters of 'a' and 'b' in L = a x Q(b), an empirical equation for run-off loading (L) and flow rate (Q), by evaluating the effects of flow conditions and regional properties of the watersheds on the values. We selected the Kamo River basin (155 km2) as a study field, and conducted various kinds of investigations, such as 80 day high frequency observations, continuous monitoring for more than 2 years, storm event surveys, and simultaneous surveys of 39 stations. Then, we obtained 7-170 data in each of 39 sampling stations. The main results obtained are as follows: (1) L-Q equation with a range of 'a' can express L-Q relation in most of the WQIs (water quality indices); (2) 'a' receives temporal (flow condition) effects more in SS, VSS and Al, while it receives regional effect more in inorganic carbon, TN, Ca and Fe; (3) both of flow change in storm events, and base flow levels affect the L-Q relation, and their effects can classify the WQIs into several groups; (4) the effects of regional properties were obviously observed in 'a', and quantitatively evaluated, especially for density of population.

Clinical outcomes of uterine sarcomas: results from 14 years worth of experience in the Kinki district in Japan (1990–2003)

To review clinical outcomes and therapeutic varieties, we were invited to submit data from the patients who were treated for uterine sarcomas in Japan from 1990 to 2003. Uterine sarcomas were defined as leiomyosarcoma (LMS), endometrial stromal sarcoma (ESS), and carcinosarcoma (CS). Of a total of 97 patients, 36 (37.1%) were diagnosed with LMS of the uterine corpus, 15 (15.5%) with ESS, 46 (47.4%) with CS. Median age at diagnosis was 59 (21–85) years. Clinical stages based on FIGO were 41 (42.3%) with stage I disease, 6 (6.2%) with staged II, 34 (35.1%) with stage III, and 16 (16.5%) with stage IV. The median follow-up period for all patients was 13 (1–108) months and median disease-free period was 9 (0–96) months. The 1-year survival rate and disease-free survival (DFS) rate were calculated in patients with all sarcomas (overall survival [OAS], 61.3%; DFS, 46.6%). Statistical analysis showed that younger age (less than 50 years), early stage (stages I and II), and surgical procedure (extended hysterectomy [EH] and radical hysterectomy [RH]) were associated with significantly better OAS. Histologic types did not affect the survival period. In conclusion, aggressive surgery including EH or RH at the time of initial operation offers the possibility of prolonged survival.

A case of allergic contact dermatitis from propylene glycol in an ultrasonic gel, sensitized at a leakage skin injury due to transcatheter arterial chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma

A 63-year-old man with hepatocellular carcinoma consequent to chronic viral hepatitis C presented with severe dermatitis on the lower right side of the back after transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) via the 10th intercostal artery, because his hepatic artery had already collapsed due to repeated usage for TACE. The regional skin showed redness and hardness with pustules. Histologically, there was epidermal and appendage necrosis, as well as exocytosis of red blood cells. With a diagnosis of skin injury due to leakage of lipiodol ultrafluid, mitomycin, and epirubicin, administered via the 10th intercostal artery, onto the skin tissue, topical application of 0.06% fluocinonide-containing cream was prescribed. After several weeks of conservative local treatment, the leakage skin injury improved significantly, leaving pigmentation, hardness, and a small necrotic mass, as reported elsewhere (Honda T, Matsushima S, Fujii S, et al. A case of skin injury following transcatheter arterial chemotherapy through intercostal artery for hepatocellular carcinoma. Skin Res 2003; 2: 18-22). Subsequently, the patient again consulted the Dermatology Department with further dermatitis in an almost identical skin region on the right side of the abdomen (irregularly spreading erythematous and edematous eruptions with itching; Fig. 1). As he had undergone an ultrasonic examination 2 days earlier, allergic contact dermatitis from the ultrasonic gel was suspected. The contact dermatitis was treated with a topical corticosteroid hormone-containing ointment. Patch testing was performed with Ultra Phonic Conductivity Gel (Pharmaceutical Innovations Inc., Newark, NJ, USA), with which the patient had undergone a series of ultrasonic examinations, and Sono Jelly (Toshiba Medical Supply Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan) as a reference, as well as white petroleum as a negative control. A positive result was obtained for Ultra Phonic Conductivity Gel, whereas Sono Jelly was negative (Fig. 2a). Pharmaceutical Innovations Inc. kindly supplied the ingredients of the gel: propylene glycol (PG), preservative in PG, color in PG, thickener 1, and thickener 2. The company gave no further details about the preservative, color, and thickeners. Patch testing was performed using these five materials, resulting in a positive reaction for PG, preservative in PG, and color in PG. Thickeners 1 and 2 and lipiodol ultrafluid were negative (Fig. 2b). On the assumption that the causative chemical was PG, commercially obtained PG, free of preservative and color, was then patch tested (original, 10% aqueous, 1% aqueous, and 0.1% aqueous solutions), resulting in original strongly positive, 10% positive, and 1% and 0.1% weakly positive (Fig. 2c). The medical records showed that the patient had received 16 ultrasonic examinations with the same ultrasonic gel before the leakage skin injury. The 17th examination was performed 2 days after leakage dermatitis, and the 18th 3 months after the injury, when contact dermatitis occurred. The 19th examination was performed using Sono Jelly, which contains no PG, and no skin problems were observed.

Possible role of REG Ialpha protein in ulcerative colitis and colitic cancer

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Although regenerating gene (REG) Ialpha protein may be involved in the inflammation and carcinogenesis in the gastrointestinal tract, its pathophysiological role in ulcerative colitis (UC) and the resulting colitic cancer remains unclear. We investigated expression of the REG Ialpha gene and its protein in UC and colitic cancer tissues. We examined whether cytokines are responsible for REG Ialpha gene expression and whether REG Ialpha protein has a trophic and/or an antiapoptotic effect on colon cancer cells.

METHODS

Expression of REG Ialpha mRNA and its gene product in UC tissues was analysed by real time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry, respectively. The effects of cytokines on REG Ialpha promoter activity were examined in LoVo cells by luciferase reporter assay. The effects of REG Ialpha protein on growth and H(2)O(2) induced apoptosis were examined in LoVo cells by MTT and TUNEL assays, respectively.

RESULTS

REG Ialpha protein was strongly expressed in inflamed epithelium and in dysplasias and cancerous lesions in UC tissues. The level of REG Ialpha mRNA expression in UC tissues correlated significantly with severity of inflammation and disease duration. REG Ialpha promoter activity was enhanced by stimulation with interferon gamma or interleukin 6. REG Ialpha protein promoted cell growth and conferred resistance to H(2)O(2) induced apoptosis in LoVo cells. REG Ialpha protein promoted Akt phosphorylation and enhanced Bcl-xL and Bcl-2 expression in LoVo cells.

CONCLUSIONS

The REG Ialpha gene is inducible by cytokines and its gene product may function as a mitogenic and/or an antiapoptotic factor in the UC-colitic cancer sequence.

Positron emission tomography application for gynecologic tumors

Positron emission tomography (PET) using fluorine-18-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose (FDG), which originated as a research tool to evaluate glucose metabolism in cancer tissues, has now become an essential imaging modality for determining the appropriate therapeutic management of various cancer patients. The clinical role of FDG-PET for gynecologic tumors has not been established yet, but FDG-PET has come to be considered one of the important imaging modalities for evaluating patients with gynecological cancers. The objective was to review the literature regarding the utility of FDG-PET in the clinical setting of gynecological malignancies. Many articles reported that FDG-PET could be used for staging and restaging in patients with uterine cervical cancer. Although there is limited data about the feasibility of FDG-PET for endometrial cancer, preliminary results for detecting recurrence were promising. Furthermore, FDG-PET has been reported as a useful imaging modality, especially for restaging, in ovarian cancer, although the prognostic value needs to be fully investigated. Currently, a combined PET/computed tomography scanner is available, and its clinical application has begun. It is expected that this modality will contribute to the management of gynecological cancers, as has been reported recently for other malignancies.

Methylation of the oestrogen receptor gene in non-neoplastic epithelium as a marker of colorectal neoplasia risk in longstanding and extensive ulcerative colitis

BACKGROUND

Surveillance colonoscopy is widely recommended in patients with longstanding and extensive ulcerative colitis (UC) in order to detect colorectal neoplasia at an early stage. However, it still remains questionable whether surveillance colonoscopy effectively enables early detection of UC associated neoplasia. There is a great need for sensitive markers to identify individuals at increased risk of neoplasia. The oestrogen receptor (OR) gene shows age related methylation in the colorectal epithelium and is methylated frequently in sporadic colorectal neoplasia, suggesting that OR methylation may predispose to colorectal neoplasia.

AIM

To clarify whether analysis of methylation of the OR gene in non-neoplastic epithelium can contribute to prediction of increased neoplasia risk in UC patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 165 non-neoplastic colorectal epithelia from 30 patients with longstanding and extensive UC, including 13 UC patients with neoplasia and 17 patients without, were evaluated. Methylation specific polymerase chain reaction was performed to determine the methylation status of the OR gene.

RESULTS

Methylation of the OR gene was detected in 54 of 70 (77.1%) non-neoplastic colorectal epithelia in UC with neoplasia but in only 23 of 95 (24.2%) without neoplasia. Methylation of the OR gene was significantly more frequent in non-neoplastic epithelium from UC with neoplasia than in chronic colitic epithelium from UC without neoplasia. Furthermore, in UC with neoplasia, the OR gene was extensively methylated in non-neoplastic epithelia throughout the colorectum compared with those in UC without neoplasia.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that analysis of OR gene methylation may have potential as a useful marker for identifying individuals at increased risk of neoplasia among those with longstanding and extensive UC.

Synthesis of sphingomyelin sulfur analogue and its behavior toward sphingomyelinase

The sulfur analogue of sphingomyelin was designed and stereoselectively synthesized from S-benzyl-N-Boc-cysteine. The introduction of the phosphoryl choline moiety was successfully achieved by our own method using 2-bromoethyl dimethyl phosphite and carbon tetrabromide followed by a trimethylamine treatment. The synthesized compound proved to be a useful substrate for monitoring the enzyme activity of sphingomyelinase by detecting the liberated thiol group with a thiol-sensitive reagent.

Ectopically located gonads in a patient with mixed gonadal dysgenesis: detection by diffusion-weighted MRI

We report a case of mixed gonadal dysgenesis in which diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging played a major role in the detection of ectopically located gonads. Magnetic resonance imaging may have a potential in detecting ectopically located gonads and may provide important information for the management of patients with mixed gonadal dysgenesis.

Coronary arterial calcification is associated with albuminuria in type 2 diabetic patient

AIM

Although microalbuminuria has been suggested as an independent risk factor for ischemic heart disease, the relationship between diabetic nephropathy and macroangiopathy remains unclear. Previously, we reported that coronary artery calcification detected by electron beam computed tomography (EBCT) could indicate the degree of coronary atherosclerosis in type 2 diabetic patients. In this study, we examine the association between coronary arterial calcification and microalbuminuria and aortic calcification and microalbuminuria.

METHODS

Two hundred and fifty-six patients, including 177 type 2 diabetic patients (106 patients with normoalbuminuria, 71 with microalbuminuria) and 79 non-diabetic patients were evaluated by assessing the urinary albumin excretion rate and using EBCT to determine a coronary calcification score (CCS) and an aortic calcification score (ACS).

RESULTS

No differences were observed regarding age, smoking index or BMI. Diabetic patients exhibited a greater CCS than non-diabetic subjects (non-diabetes 33 +/- 75 vs. diabetes 203 +/- 467, p < 0.05). Diabetic patients with microalbuminuria exhibited the most advanced CCS (253 +/- 491, p < 0.05). In contrast, no difference was observed in ACS among three groups. Multiple regression analysis showed that CCS is significantly associated with urinary albumin excretion rate as well as age, duration of diabetes and serum creatinine (R(2) = 0.31), while ACS is strongly associated with age, smoking, serum creatinine, systolic blood pressure and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level (R(2) = 0.29).

CONCLUSION

Increased urinary albumin excretion is associated with coronary arterial calcification in diabetic patients.

Activation of sphingomyelinase from Bacillus cereus by Zn2+ hitherto accepted as a strong inhibitor

Sphingomyelinase (SMase) from Bacillus cereus has been known to be activated by Mg2+, Mn2+, and Co2+, but strongly inhibited by Zn2+. In the present study, we investigated the effects of several kinds of metal ions on the catalytic activity of B. cereus SMase, and found that the activity was inhibited by Zn2+ at its higher concentrations or at higher pH values, but unexpectedly activated at lower Zn2+ concentrations or at lower pH values. This result indicates that SMase possesses at least two different binding sites for Zn2+ and that the Zn2+ binding to the high-affinity site can activate the enzyme, whereas the Zn2+ binding to the low-affinity site can inactivate it. We also found that the binding of substrate to the enzyme was independent of the Zn2+ binding to the high-affinity site, but was competitively inhibited by the Zn2+ binding to the low-affinity site. The binding affinity of the metal ions to the site for activating the enzyme was determined to be in the rank-order of Mg2+ = Co2+ < Mn2+ < Zn2+. It was also demonstrated that these four metal ions competed with each other for the same binding site on the enzyme molecule.

Development of an integrated analysis procedure for three-ways layout field surveys data in lakes

Lake water quality systems are extremely complex and every lake is characterized by many complicated interactions between biological, chemical and physical variables. One of the most important tasks of lake mechanism analysis is to examine the relations among important water quality variables and to describe such complicated relationships quantitatively, simply and practically. Lake Biwa was chosen as a target lake, where a periodic water quality investigation was conducted every month from 1979 at 50 sampling sites. The objective of this study is to establish an application procedure of three-ways layout data and to present a vision including its practical result, expecting that this vision may also provide a direction for further research. The results showed that (1) cluster analysis following the three-ways layout ANOVA method is very effective in presenting water quality variation, (2) correlation analysis of water quality indices in each effect of parameters and their interaction between two items verifies that their relationships in parameters are different due to different mechanisms. (3) An integrated analysis procedure was derived, potentially describing those data in forms which convey their important characteristics and reveal their significant relationship. The same approach of this analysis procedure could be possibly applied for other water quality indices in other lakes.

Direct evidence for mutual interactions between perineuronal astrocytes and interneurons in the CA1 region of the rat hippocampus

Recent studies have demonstrated that astrocytes express a variety of ion channels and neurotransmitter receptors and can modulate the activity of neurons. Since a single astrocyte makes tight contacts with many neighboring neuronal cells, they can provide efficient and wide modulation of neuronal networks. Here, we provide direct evidence for mutual interactions between perineuronal astrocytes and interneurons in the stratum radiatum of the rat hippocampus. Direct depolarization of a perineuronal astrocyte suppressed the excitatory postsynaptic currents in an adjacent interneuron and increased the paired-pulse ratio, indicating that perineuronal astrocytes have a suppressive effect on presynaptic elements. Moreover, perineuronal astrocyte activation modulated the directly induced firing pattern of the interneuron, with initial facilitation and subsequent suppression. Conversely, direct firing of the interneuron depolarized the membrane potential and reduced the input resistance of the perineuronal astrocyte. These results directly demonstrate the existence of bidirectional interactions between neurons and perineuronal astrocytes.

Synthesis of polystyrene/poly[2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate-stat-ethylene glycol dimethacrylate] core-shell latex particles by seeded emulsion polymerization and their application as stimulus-responsive particulate emulsifiers for oil-in-water emulsions

Surfactant-stabilized polystyrene (PS) latex particles with a mean hydrodynamic diameter of 155 nm were prepared by aqueous emulsion polymerization using 2,2'-azobis(2-amidinopropane) hydrochloride as a cationic radical initiator. Seeded aqueous emulsion copolymerizations of 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate (DMA) and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) were conducted in the presence of these PS particles to produce two batches of colloidally stable core-shell latex particles, in which the shell comprised a cross-linked P(DMA-stat-EGDMA) overlayer. Both the PS and PS/P(DMA-stat-EGDMA) latexes were characterized in terms of their particle size, morphology, and composition using dynamic light scattering, electron microscopy, and FT-IR spectroscopy, respectively. Using the PS/P(DMA-stat-EGDMA) latex particles as a pH-responsive particulate ('Pickering'-type) emulsifier, polydisperse n-dodecane-in-water emulsions were prepared at pH 8 that could be partially broken (demulsified) on lowering the solution pH to 3. These emulsions were characterized in terms of their emulsion type, mean droplet diameter, and morphology using electrical conductivity and Mastersizer measurements, optical microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (using critical point drying for sample preparation).

Experimental transplantation study for possible transformation of bone marrow cells in the mouse placenta

The aim of the present study is to establish a mouse model of the transplantation of bone marrow cells into the placenta in mid-gestation. The mononuclear fraction of bone marrow cells was isolated by Ficoll gradient centrifugation from the femur bones of C57BL/6 green fluorescent protein (GFP) gene transgenic (Tg) mice. After intraperitoneal injection of pentobarbital sodium, the abdominal cavities of pregnant non-Tg (C57BL/6 or ICR) mice were opened at 9.5 days postcoitum (dpc). The mononuclear fraction of bone marrow cells from Tg mice (3-5 x 10(5)cells/3 microl) was directly injected into the placental portion of the pregnant uterus, at a depth of approximately 3 mm, using a 31-gauge injector. The placenta was sampled at 14.5 dpc. Confocal laser scanning microscopic analysis of the serial sections of the sampled placenta (150-250 sections/placenta) was carried out to detect GFP-positive cells and to assess immunostaining for cytokeratin, CD34, p57(Kip2) and prolactin. Most pregnant mice survived until sampling of the placenta at 14.5-18.5 dpc (88.9% for C57BL6 and 100% for ICR). The survival rate of fetuses from mice in which the placenta was transplanted with GFP-positive bone marrow cells was approximately 50%. A small population (0.154%) of injected bone marrow cells was retained in the placental tissue. Immunohistochemically, cytokeratin, CD34 and p57(Kip2) were positively stained in 0.062%, 4.5% and 2.1% of GFP-positive cells, respectively, while prolactin was not positive in any of the cells examined. GFP-positive bone marrow cells were successfully transplanted to the murine placenta. Future investigations of the specific antigens in bone marrow cells retained in the placenta may enable a better understanding of the local regulation of placental development.

High dose antipsychotic use in schizophrenia: findings of the REAP (research on east Asia psychotropic prescriptions) study

BACKGROUND

High-dose antipsychotic regimes (defined as the prescription of more than 1000 chlorpromazine-equivalents milligrams of antipsychotic per day) in the management of patients with schizophrenia are not uncommon, but most reports are from western countries. Recent functional neuroimaging studies have found that the previous notion concerning the use of antipsychotic medication, especially in high doses, was unsupported and untenable.

METHODS

This international study examined the use of high dose antipsychotic medication and its clinical correlates in schizophrenia patients within six East Asian countries/territories.

RESULTS

Within the study group (n = 2399), 430 patients (17.9%) were prescribed high dose antipsychotics. Antipsychotic use varied significantly between countries, with Japan, Korea, and Singapore using higher doses than the other countries. High dose antipsychotic use was associated with younger age in Japan (p < 0.001), longer duration of admission (p < 0.001), duration of illness (p < 0.001, particularly in Korea and Taiwan), positive psychotic symptoms (p < 0.001, particularly in Japan and Korea), and aggression (p < 0.05, particularly in Japan), and also with a higher likelihood of extrapyramidal and autonomic adverse effects (p < 0.05, particularly in China). Country, younger age, the presence of delusions and disorganized speech, polypharmacy, and receiving depot medication but not atypical antipsychotic drugs were important predictors of high antipsychotic use.

CONCLUSIONS

This survey revealed that high antipsychotic dosing is not an uncommon practice in East Asia. It behooves the prescribing clinicians to constantly reevaluate the rationale for such a practice.

Usefulness of diffusion tensor imaging of white matter in Alzheimer disease and vascular dementia

PURPOSE

To evaluate the usefulness of diffusion tensor imaging in detecting the water diffusivity caused by neuropathological change in Alzheimer disease and vascular dementia.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty patients with Alzheimer disease, 20 with vascular dementia, and 10 control subjects were examined. Diffusion tensor imaging applied diffusion gradient encoding in six non-collinear directions. Fractional anisotropy values were compared in the genu and splenium of the corpus callosum, and anterior and posterior white matter among the three groups.

RESULTS

In the patients with Alzheimer disease, fractional anisotropy values of the posterior white matter were significantly lower than those of controls. In patients with vascular dementia, fractional anisotropy values of the anterior white matter tended to be lower than those of the posterior white matter (P=0.07).

CONCLUSION

Diffusion tensor imaging reflects the neuropathological changes in the white matter, and may be useful in the diagnosis of Alzheimer disease and vascular dementia.

Effect of varying the oil phase on the behavior of pH-responsive latex-based emulsifiers: demulsification versus transitional phase inversion

Sterically stabilized polystyrene latexes (previously described by Amalvy, J. I.; et al. Chem. Commun. 2003, 1826) were evaluated as pH-responsive particulate emulsifiers for the preparation of both oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions. The steric stabilizer was a well-defined AB diblock copolymer where A is poly(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) and B is poly(methyl methacrylate). Several parameters were varied during the emulsion preparation, including the polarity of the oil phase, the latex concentration, surface concentration of copolymer stabilizer, and solution pH. Nonpolar oils such as n-dodecane gave oil-in-water emulsions, and polar oils such as 1-undecanol produced water-in-oil emulsions. In both cases, these emulsions proved to be stimulus-responsive: demulsification occurred rapidly on adjusting the solution pH. Oils of intermediate polarity such as methyl myristate or cineole led to emulsions that underwent transitional inversion on adjusting the solution pH. All emulsions were polydisperse and typically ranged from 40 to 400 microm diameter, as judged by optical microscopy and Malvern Mastersizer measurements. Critical point drying of the emulsion droplets, followed by scanning electron microscopy studies, confirmed that the latex particles were adsorbed as a single monolayer at the oil/water interface, as anticipated.

Septicaemia and arthritis in pigs experimentally infected with Pasteurella multocida capsular serotype A

Twenty-five caesarean-derived, colostrum-deprived (CDCD) pigs and 18 specific pathogen-free pigs, aged 8 to 14 weeks, were inoculated intranasally or intratracheally with Pasteurella multocida capsular serotype A, isolated from a severe pneumonic lesion in a growing pig. The pigs were killed for necropsy on day 6 or 14 post-inoculation (PI) or, in the case of the only fatally infected animal, examined at the time of death. One CDCD pig, inoculated intratracheally with 5 ml of a bacterial suspension containing 1.7x10(9) colony-forming-units/ml, died of septicaemia on day 1 PI. Histological lesions such as severe pleuropneumonia, thrombi in glomerular capillaries, haemorrhage of the spleen, and abscesses in the tonsillar crypts were observed. The organism was recovered from a number of sites and its antigens were detected immunohistochemically in the pneumonic lesions, blood vessels of the tissues, and tonsillar crypts in the dead pig. Pneumonia, pleural adhesions and suppurative arthritis in the extremital joints were observed grossly in 3/29, 8/29 and 7/29 intratracheally inoculated pigs, respectively. In intranasally inoculated pigs, no macroscopical abnormalities were seen; histologically, however, exudative bronchopneumonia and fibrinous pleurisy were observed in 9/14 and 4/14 pigs, respectively. No significant changes were seen in the tissues of uninfected control pigs. The organism was recovered from the lesions and P. multocida type A antigen was demonstrated immunohistochemically. The organism was rarely recovered from the liver, spleen or lymph nodes (bronchopulmonary or mesenteric). The results suggest that P. multocida capsular serotype A alone can cause not only pneumonia in pigs but also septicaemia or arthritis.

Development of colonic neoplasia in p53 deficient mice with experimental colitis induced by dextran sulphate sodium

BACKGROUND

Several animal models for human ulcerative colitis (UC) associated neoplasia have been reported. However, most neoplasias developed in these models have morphological and genetic characteristics different from UC associated neoplasia.

AIMS

To establish a new colitis associated neoplasia model in p53 deficient mice by treatment with dextran sulphate sodium (DSS).

METHODS

DSS colitis was induced in homozygous p53 deficient mice (p53(-/-)-DSS), heterozygous p53 deficient mice (p53(+/-)-DSS) and wild-type mice (p53+/+-DSS) by treatment with 4% DSS. Numbers of developed neoplasias were compared among the experimental groups, and macroscopic and microscopic features of the neoplasias were analysed. Furthermore, K-ras mutation and beta-catenin expression were assessed.

RESULTS

p53(-/-)-DSS mice showed 100% incidence of neoplasias whereas the incidences in p53(+/-)-DSS and p53+/+-DSS mice were 46.2% and 13.3%, respectively. No neoplasias were observed in the control groups. The mean numbers of total neoplasias per mouse were 5.0 (p53(-/-)-DSS), 0.62 (p53(+/-)-DSS), and 0.2 (p53+/+-DSS). The number of neoplasias per mouse in the p53(-/-)-DSS group was significantly higher than that in the other DSS groups. The incidences of superficial type neoplasias were 91.7% in p53(-/-)-DSS mice, 75.0% in p53(+/-)-DSS mice, and 33.3% in p53+/+-DSS mice. The K-ras mutation was not detected in any of the neoplasias tested. Translocation of beta-catenin from the cell membrane to the cytoplasm or nucleus was observed in 19 of 23 (82.6%) neoplasias.

CONCLUSIONS

The p53(-/-)-DSS mice is an excellent animal model of UC associated neoplasia because the morphological features and molecular genetics are similar to those of UC associated neoplasia. Therefore, this model will contribute to the analysis of tumorigenesis related to human UC associated neoplasia and the development of chemopreventive agents.

Evaluation of developmental toxicity of beta-thujaplicin (hinokitiol) following oral administration during organogenesis in rats

The objective of this study was to evaluate the developmental toxicity of beta-thujaplicin (TP) in rats. Pregnant rats were given TP by gastric intubation at 15, 45, or 135 mg/kg on days 6-15 of pregnancy. The maternal body weight gain during administration at 45 and 135 mg/kg and after administration at 136 mg/kg and adjusted weight gain at 45 and 135 mg/kg were significantly reduced. A significant decrease in food consumption during and after administration was found at 45 and 135 mg/kg. A significant increase in the incidence of postimplantation loss was found in pregnant rats given TP at 135 mg/kg. A significantly lower weight was found in female fetuses at 45 and 135 mg/kg and in male fetuses at 135 mg/kg. Although a significantly increased incidence of fetuses with skeletal variations and decreased degree of ossification were found at 135 mg/kg, no significant increase in external, skeletal and internal malformations was detected after administration of TP. The data demonstrated that TP had adverse effects on embryonic/fetal survival and growth only at maternal toxic doses. No adverse effects on morphological development were found in rats fetuses. Based on the significant decreases in maternal body weight gain and weight of female fetuses at 45 mg/kg and higher, it is concluded that the no-observed-adverse-effect levels (NOAELs) of TP for both dams and fetuses are considered to be 15 mg/kg in rats.