Increased HTLV type 1 tax specific CD8+ cells in HTLV type 1-asociated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis: correlation with HTLV type 1 proviral load

Less than 1% of individuals infected with the human T lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) develop an inflammatory neurological disorder, termed HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic (HAM/TSP), while the vast majority of those infected remain asymptomatic HTLV-1 carriers (ACs). The fundamental viroimmunological differences between these groups are not well understood. To address this issue, we have investigated HTLV-1-specific T cell responses and measured the proviral load in these groups. Frequencies of HTLV-1-specific CD8(+) cells were demonstrated to be significantly higher in HAM/TSP patients than in ACs by using intracellular cytokine staining and soluble divalent HLA-A2/Ig fusion protein loaded with HTLV-1 Tax 11-19 peptide. It is consistent with the observed increase in HTLV-1-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes in HAM/TSP patients. These CD8(+) cells produced interferon (IFN)-gamma in recognition of HTLV-1 antigens bound to HLAs on the infected CD4(+) cells. Using phenotypic markers indicative for T cell differentiation, memory and/or effector HTLV-1 Tax-specific CD8(+) cells were found to be increased in HLA-A2 HAM/TSP patients. HTLV-1 proviral load was elevated in HAM/TSP patients when compared to ACs. In addition, the proviral load in HAM/TSP patients correlated with the frequency of HTLV-1-specific IFN-gamma(+)CD8(+) cells or Tax-HLA-A2/Ig(+)CD8(+) cells, especially with the effector cells. In contrast, the proviral load inversely correlated with memory cells. These results suggest that HTLV-1 antigens may continuously stimulate HTLV-1-specific CD8(+) cells and differentiate them from memory cells into effector cells in vivo. These differentiated HTLV-1-specific CD8(+) cells may play a role in the pathogenesis of HAM/TSP.

[Report of two cases of actinomycosis of the neck, one acute and one chronic]

We report two cases of actinomycosis of the neck, one acute and one chronic. The acute actinomycosis patient was a 63-year-old woman who complained of high fever, sore throat, and swelling of her neck on her first visit. Plain CT revealed gas-formation in the soft tissues of the left parapharyngeal space, the hyoid area and the cartilage thyroid area. We performed emergency tracheotomy and surgically drained her neck. No actinomycotic bodies were found microscopically in the surgically resected material, but cultures of the neck pus grew out actinomyces. A diagnosis of actinomycosis was made, and the patient was treated with administration of antibiotics, an ASPC drip infusion for about 7 weeks and oral BAPC for about 6 months, and the lesion was improved. The patient has been symptom-free for 4 years since the operation. The chronic actinomycosis patient was a 61-year-old woman who complained of swelling in the right submandibular region. Surgical resection was performed to exclude the possibility of a malignant tumor. Actinomycotic bodies were detected microscopically in the surgically resected material. The patient was treated with oral AMPC for about 6 months, and she has been symptom-free for 1 year since the operation.

[Evaluation of social activities of the elderly in 27 regions with use of the 'check list for vivid social activities']

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to determine the utility of a 'Check list for vivid social activities (Check list)' developed for self-evaluates of social activities by the elderly. In this study, two surveys were made. First, the usefulness of the 'Check list' was evaluated by the person in charge of health and welfare for elderly in each region. Then a survey of the elderly using the 'Check list' was made in some regions to further assess its.

METHODS

1. We conducted a study of 3,255 cities, towns and villages in Japan using a mailed questionnaire. 2. About 4,100 elderly 65 years of age or older from 27 regions filled in the 'Check list'. The participants belonged to various groups such as those receiving physical care and senior citizen organizations.

RESULTS

1. One thousand four hundred and seventy (45.2%) cities, towns and villages responded to our questionnaire. About 50% of those were in favor regarding 'the utility of the Check list' and 'ease of filling in the Check list'. About 25% of them were in favor in terms of 'the efficiency of the Check list for making elderly initiate some social activities'. Forty-four percent of them answered that they intended to take advantage of the 'Check list'. 2. By comparing results from each of the 27 regions, it was possible to evaluate the levels of social activities by the locality. By comparing activities of groups composed of regions with same characteristic, it was possible to characterize social activities at the group.

CONCLUSION

These finding suggest utility for the 'Check list'.

Heme structure of hemoglobin M Iwate [alpha 87(F8)His-->Tyr]: a UV and visible resonance Raman study

Heme structures of a natural mutant hemoglobin (Hb), Hb M Iwate [alpha87(F8)His-->Tyr], and protonation of its F8-Tyr were examined with the 244-nm excited UV resonance Raman (UVRR) and the 406.7- and 441.6-nm excited visible resonance Raman (RR) spectroscopy. It was clarified from the UVRR bands at 1605 and 1166 cm(-)(1) characteristic of tyrosinate that the tyrosine (F8) of the abnormal subunit in Hb M Iwate adopts a deprotonated form. UV Raman bands of other Tyr residues indicated that the protein takes the T-quaternary structure even in the met form. Although both hemes of alpha and beta subunits in metHb A take a six-coordinate (6c) high-spin structure, the 406.7-nm excited RR spectrum of metHb M Iwate indicated that the abnormal alpha subunit adopts a 5c high-spin structure. The present results and our previous observation of the nu(Fe)(-)(O(tyrosine)) Raman band [Nagai et al. (1989) Biochemistry 28, 2418-2422] have proved that F8-tyrosinate is covalently bound to Fe(III) heme in the alpha subunit of Hb M Iwate. As a result, peripheral groups of porphyrin ring, especially the vinyl and the propionate side chains, were so strongly influenced that the RR spectrum in the low-frequency region excited at 406.7 nm is distinctly changed from the normal pattern. When Hb M Iwate was fully reduced, the characteristic UVRR bands of tyrosinate disappeared and the Raman bands of tyrosine at 1620 (Y8a), 1207 (Y7a), and 1177 cm(-)(1) (Y9a) increased in intensity. Coordination of distal His(E7) to the Fe(II) heme in the reduced alpha subunit of Hb M Iwate was proved by the observation of the nu(Fe)(-)(His) RR band in the 441.6-nm excited RR spectrum at the same frequency as that of its isolated alpha chain. The effects of the distal-His coordination on the heme appeared as a distortion of the peripheral groups of heme. A possible mechanism for the formation of a Fe(III)-tyrosinate bond in Hb M Iwate is discussed.

Antitumor-promoting effects of cyclic diarylheptanoids on Epstein-Barr virus activation and two-stage mouse skin carcinogenesis

Eleven cyclic diarylheptanoids were screened as potential antitumor promoters by examining the ability of the compounds to inhibit Epstein-Barr virus early antigen activation (induced by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate) in Raji cells. 13-Oxomyricanol and myricanone showed the highest activity and also exhibited remarkable inhibitory effects on mouse skin tumor promotion in an in vivo two-stage carcinogenesis test. These data suggest that certain diarylheptanoids might be valuable antitumor promoters and/or chemopreventors.

[The investigation of the testing method on fracture toughness of dental adhesive resins]

OBJECTIVE

The testing method for mode I fracture toughness (GIC) of dental adhesive resins was investigated.

METHODS

The dental adhesive resins were placed between two Co-Cr alloy plates to make up test specimen, so test specimen had a metal/adhesive resin/metal construction. The category of adhesive resins, the dimensions of test specimen and testing speed were used as the variants. The testing method for mode I fracture toughness (GIC) was investigated by using double cantilever beam (DCB) testing. The correlation between the GIC and each factor was analysed by regression analysis.

RESULTS

In all test specimens, it was found that the values of fracture toughness (GIC, GIR) at the process of crack propagation were nearly constant. Therefore, it was found that fracture toughness (GIC) at maximal load might only be measured to evaluate an adhesive resin. On the values of GIC, there was no effect from the dimensions of the test specimens, width (b = 3.5 mm), thickness (2 hm = 2.4 mm), initial crack length (ao = 10-19 mm) and testing speed(Vc = 0.1 mm/min, 0.2 mm/min). But, it was found that the fracture toughness was influenced by thickness of adhesive layer (hr). In case of SB, the value of GIC had a tendency to increase as the adhesive layer became thicker, and then the crack propagating area observed as cohesive failure became remarkably rougher. In case of PV, the values for hr = 100 and 200 microns were similar, however, that for hr = 20 microns somewhat decreased resulting in an interfacial failure. By the way, cohesive failures of hr = 100 and 200 microns were observed as similar flat surfaces.

CONCLUSION

Fracture toughness was not influenced very much by the dimensions of test specimen, but was influenced by thickness of adhesive layer. Thus, it was recognized that this testing method was more effective for evaluating the adhesive resin.

Oleanane acid from Myrica cerifera

From the twigs of Myrica cerifera L. (Myricaceae), a new oleanane triterpenic acid named myrica acid was isolated along with myricalactone and several other known constituents. The structure of the acid was determined as 3beta-hydroxy-1-oxoolean-11,13(18)-dien-28-oic acid on the basis of chemical and spectral evidence.

Detection of epidemics in their early stage through infectious disease surveillance

BACKGROUND

Surveillance of infectious diseases is done in many countries. The aims of such surveillance include the detection of epidemics. In the present study, the possibility of detecting an epidemic in its early stage using a simple method was evaluated for 16 infectious diseases.

METHODS

We used as an index the number of cases per week per sentinel medical institution in the area covered by a health centre in infectious disease surveillance in Japan in 1993-1997. Periods of epidemics in health centre areas were determined according to the reported indices. The simple method used for detecting the early stage of an epidemic is that if the index exceeds a critical value, then an epidemic will begin in the following 4 weeks. The sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value for this epidemic warning were evaluated for given critical values.

RESULTS

When the specificity of the epidemic warning was more than 95%, the sensitivity was more than 60% in ten diseases, and more than 80% in four diseases (influenza-like illness, rubella, hand-foot-and-mouth disease, and herpangina). The positive predictive value was between 15.6% and 31.4% in these ten diseases.

CONCLUSION

The early stage of epidemics of some infectious diseases might be detectable using this simple method.

Interactions of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase Src homology 3 domain with its ligand peptide studied by absorption, circular dichroism, and UV resonance raman spectroscopies

Absorption, circular dichroism (CD), and UV resonance Raman (UVRR) spectroscopies were applied to selectively examine the environmental and structural changes of Trp and Tyr residues in the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) SH3 domain induced by ligand association. Comparison of the spectra of PI3K SH3 in the presence or absence of its ligand peptide RLP1 (RKLPPRPSK) indicated that RLP1 binding changed the environment of Trp55 of the SH3 to be more hydrophilic and its H bonding weaker and that of Tyr residues to be more hydrophobic. The D21N mutant (Asp21 --> Asn) of the SH3 yielded a UV CD distinct from that of the wild type, and its spectral changes induced by RLP1 binding were smaller and different from those of the wild type in absorption, CD, and UVRR spectra, suggesting that the mutation of conserved Asp21 affected the conformation of the ligand binding cleft and thus might lead to the decrease in the ligand affinity. These data provide direct evidence for the occurrence of environmental and structural changes of PI3K SH3 by the association of a ligand and the D21N mutation.

CD138-positive and Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV)-negative B-cell lymphoma with serosal spreading of the body cavity and lymphadenopathy: an autopsy case

CD138-positive and Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpes virus (KSHV)-negative B cell lymphoma with serosal spreading of the body cavity and lymphadenopathy is presented. Our lymphoma cells showed pleomorphic morphology and a clonal immunoglobulin gene rearrangement. Immunophenotypically, they lacked B- and T-cell-associated antigens but expressed strong membranous CD138 antigen along the serosa. Although our case was not conventional primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) because of the absence of KSHV and the presence of lymphadenopathy, its unique phenotype and serosal spreading were consistent with those of PEL. Our case suggests that, irrespective of KSHV infection, some pleomorphic B cell lymphomas with membranous CD138 expression show a peculiar serosal spreading.

Rapid oscillation of insulin release by the rat pancreatic islets under stringent Ca2+-free conditions

Oscillation of insulin release by the pancreatic islets was evaluated under stringent Ca(2+)-free conditions for the first time. Isolated single rat islets were exposed to 16.7 mM glucose in the presence of 1.9 mM Ca(2+), or under the stringent Ca(2+)-free conditions (Ca(2+) omission with 1 mM EGTA, 6 microM forskolin and 100 nM phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate). Fifteen minutes after the initiation of glucose stimulation, effluent was collected at a 6-s interval, insulin was determined in duplicate by a highly sensitive insulin radioimmunoassay, and oscillation and pulsatility of release statistically analyzed. Significant oscillation of insulin release was observed in all islets irrespective of presence and absence of Ca(2+). Significant pulsatility of release was detected in 7 of 11 islets in the presence of Ca(2+) and three of six isl! ets in the absence of Ca(2+). In conclusion, high glucose elicits oscillatory insulin release both in the presence and absence of extracellular Ca(2+).

Pleasant odors attenuate the blood pressure increase during rhythmic handgrip in humans

We have investigated the effects of inhaling odors of preference on physiological responses to physical exercise in college students. Rhythmic handgrip, maintaining a mercurial pressure by repetitive compression, increased blood pressure. In the participants exercised with inhaling odors of their choice, such as rose, jasmine and lavender, the increase in diastolic blood pressure during exercise was reduced by 24%. In contrast, the blood pressure increase during static handgrip, maintaining the power 30-40% of maximum, was not affected by the existence of favorite odors. Since the blood pressure increase during static handgrip is a lower brainstem reflex, the present result shows that the inhalation of favorite odors suppresses the muscle sympathetic vasoconstrictor activity and attenuates the blood pressure increase by affecting the central nervous system higher than the midbrain.

Familial spinal arachnoiditis with secondary syringomyelia: clinical studies and MRI findings

We report the clinical and MRI findings of two patients with familial spinal arachnoiditis. Although their initial symptoms were various, they both showed spastic paraparesis and sensory disturbance below the thoracic level. Cytokines and WBC in the CSF were studied, but they were not elevated at all. The spinal magnetic resonance images of each showed extensive arachnoiditis and a cystic structure. The other impressive features included: (i) an enhancement within the thickened arachnoid and an adhesion between the spinal cord and the dura mater, (ii) deformation of the thoracic cord where the arachnoid adhered, and (iii) secondary syrinx formation. Laminectomy may have an adverse outcome for such patients.

The pitfall in evaluating several serological markers of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in a neutropenic patient

We compared the significance of several serum markers to evaluate the activity of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) in an immunocompromised patient. We successively measured KL-6, an amino-terminal propeptide of Type III procollagen (PIIINP), and the cytokeratin 19 fragment (CK19) in the sera of a patient with PCP. Interestingly, PIIINP, KL-6, and CK19 levels in the sera did not increase at the time of onset of PCP during a neutropenic phase. Instead, they markedly increased after the recovery of WBC counts. This case suggests that values of PIIINP, KL-6, and CK19 used for monitoring the activity of PCP might be underestimated in neutropenic patients.

Anterior tributaries of the portal vein at the superior margin of the pancreas: is "tunneling" procedure safe during pancreatic surgery?

BACKGROUND

It is widely believed that using the "tunneling" procedure during pancreatoduodenectomy is a safe maneuver because the anterior tributaries of the portal vein (PV) are absent or very rare.

METHODS

The head of the pancreas with the duodenum and the common bile duct (CBD) was obtained from 22 autopsy cases. Three colors of silicon-polymerase dyes were injected into the pancreatic artery, PV, and bile duct. The tributaries of the PV at the superior margin of the pancreas were studied.

RESULTS

There was no anterior branch of the intrapancreatic PV. The anterior superior pancreaticoduodenal vein (ASPDV) gave a definite branch to the anterior aspect of the PV at the superior margin of the pancreas in 4 of 22 cases. When the posterior superior pancreaticoduodenal vein (PSPDV) was located in front of the CBD (5 of 22 cases), the ASPDV and PSPDV had a thick common trunk at the right side of the PV. In these 5 cases, no individual branch from the ASPDV was found at the anterior aspect of the PV.

CONCLUSION

PV sometimes has a definite anterior tributary at the superior margin of the pancreas; this must be kept in mind to perform the tunneling procedure during pancreatic surgery.

Cloning and heterologous expression of gene encoding A polygalacturonase from Aspergillus awamori

A polygalacturonase gene of Aspergillus awamori IFO 4033 was cloned by genomic Southern hybridization with a probe of a DNA fragment synthesized by PCR. This was done using primers constructed based on the N-terminal amino acid sequence of a polygalacturonase, protopectinase-AS, produced by the strain and the consensus internal amino acid sequence of fungal polygalacturonases. The cloned polygalacturonase gene, containing an ORF, encodes 362 amino acids, including a 52-bp intron. It contains the consensus nucleotide sequence of PacC binding sites, and its expression was appeared to be regulated by ambient pH. After the intron was excised, the cloned gene was inserted into an expression plasmid for yeast, pMA91, and introduced into Saccharomyces cerevisiae to be expressed. The expressed gene product was purified to a homogeneous preparation, and this confirmed that the polygalacturonase produced was the product of the cloned gene.

Purification and characterization of an endo-polygalacturonase. From Aspergillus awamori

An extracellular endo-polygalacturonase (PGase) produced by Aspergillus awamori IFO 4033 was isolated from the culture filtrate. The enzyme was purified to a homogeneous preparation with cation-exchange and size-exclusion chromatographies. Its properties were investigated, comparing them with that of recombinant pgx2 gene product, a PGase having protopectinase activity. This enzyme was a monomeric protein of 41 kDa, with an isoelectric point of pH 6.1. The characteristics of this PGase substantially coincide, with that of recombinant pgx2 gene product, and the PGase is assumed to be native pgx2 gene product. The production of PGase-X2 was confirmed to be regulated by ambient pHs.

Discovery of novel and potent retinoic acid receptor alpha agonists: syntheses and evaluation of benzofuranyl-pyrrole and benzothiophenyl-pyrrole derivatives

In the course of our studies on retinoic acid receptor (RAR) agonists, we have designed and synthesized a series of benzofuran and benzothiophene derivatives. Some of these compounds (1a,b,e,f,j) markedly inhibited LPS-induced B-lymphocyte proliferation and exerted RARalpha selectivity. One of them, 4-[5-(4,7-dimethylbenzofuran-2-yl)pyrrol-2-yl]benzoic acid (1b), when orally administered significantly inhibited mouse antibody production and delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) responses from a dose of 0.1 mg/kg.

The p73 gene is not mutated in oligodendrogliomas which frequently have a deleted region at chromosome 1p36.3

An allelic loss of the chromosome 1p36 region is frequently found in oligodendrogliomas, which suggests the presence of putative tumor suppressor gene(s) in the region. Since the p73 gene, which encodes a protein with significant homology with p53, is mapped to the 1p36.33 region, we examined genetic alterations of the p73 gene in oligodendrogliomas. We screened 10 specimens for mutation throughout the p73 coding regions by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-single strand conformation polymorphism analysis and by sequencing aberrantly migrated PCR products. We found several polymorphic nucleotide changes, but no somatic mutations that caused an amino acid change. The p73 gene is thus unlikely to be a tumor suppressor gene for oligodendrogliomas.

Purification and characterization of acid-stable protopectinase produced by Aspergillus awamori in solid-state fermentation

Aspergillus awamori IFO 4033 produced an acid-stable protopectinase in solid-state fermentation using wheat bran as the medium. The enzyme was purified to a homogeneous preparation with anion-exchange, hydrophobic, and size-exclusion chromatography. The enzyme was a monomeric protein of 52 kDa, by SDS-PAGE analysis, with an isoelectric point of pH 3.7. The optimum pH for enzyme activity was 2.0, and it was most active at 50 degrees C (at pH 2.0) and was stable up to 50 degrees C (at pH 2.0). The enzyme showed pectin-releasing activity toward protopectins from various origins, especially on lemon protopectin. An outstanding characteristic of the enzyme was its extreme stability in acidic conditions: the enzyme activity was not lost after incubating at pH 2.0 and 37 degrees C for 24 h.

Electrophoretic coating of multilayered apatite composite on alumina ceramics

By means of an electrophoretic deposition technique followed by sintering, alumina and zirconia ceramics were coated with apatitic composites composed of porous surface and intermediate layers of hydroxyapatite and an adhesive calcium phosphate layer. The electrophoretic deposition of these layers was attained by the use of a mixed solvent of acetylacetone and alcohol as well as the mixed powders of the calcium phosphates and alumina. The adhesive layer was formed by the codeposition of calcium phosphate glass powders (Ca/P = 1/2) with hydroxyapatite, while the open porosity of the surface layer was increased with the addition of alumina to the hydroxyapatite layers. The resultant phases of sintered composite layers were tricalcium phosphate and alumina with a small amount of hydroxyapatite.

Effect of the adhesive layer thickness on the fracture toughness of dental adhesive resins

We investigated how the thickness of an adhesive layer between two Co-Cr alloy plates affected the mode I fracture toughness of dental adhesive resin by varying the type of resin using a double cantilever beam (DCB) test. Two typical adhesive resins (PV and SB) were used. The adhesive layers of the DCB test specimens were 20, 100 and 200 microns thick. The fracture modes of PV differed with the thickness of the adhesive layer, such as interface fracture at 20 microns thickness, and similar cohesive fracture at 100 and 200 microns thickness. In the case of SB, crack-propagating areas were observed as cohesive fractures in all test specimens with different adhesive layer thickness, and the surfaces of these areas became remarkably rougher as the thickness of the adhesive layer increased. The fracture toughness of PV was not affected by the differences in thickness between the 100 and 200 microns adhesive layers, but there was a notable decrease in fracture toughness when the adhesive layer decreased to a thickness of 20 microns. That of SB showed a tendency to increase as the adhesive layer became thicker.

Identification of the full-length KIAA0591 gene encoding a novel kinesin-related protein which is mapped to the neuroblastoma suppressor gene locus at 1p36.2

The distal region of a short arm of chromosome 1p is frequently deleted in many human cancers including neuroblastoma (NBL), in which it has been narrowed down to the smallest region of overlap between D1S244 and D1S214 (approximately 7 cM). During the search for the candidate tumor suppressor genes mapped within the region, we found the KIAA0591 gene which encoded a new human kinesin-related protein with a homology to human axonal transporter of synaptic vesicles (ATSV). The kinesin is an intracellular motor protein and often associated with neuronal differentiation and survival. Here we identified a complete open reading frame of the KIAA0591 gene by screening a cDNA library derived from human substantia nigra. The KIAA0591 protein contains a possible pleckstrin homology (PH) domain at its carboxy-terminus. However, it did not possess a force-generating motor domain which is well conserved among kinesin superfamily members (KIFs). Northern blot analysis demonstrated that KIAA0591 mRNA was preferentially expressed in both adult and fetal brains, kidney, skeletal muscle and pancreas. KIAA0591 was expressed in favorable NBLs at higher levels than in unfavorable NBLs, although RT-PCR SSCP analysis showed no mutation within the coding region of the KIAA0591 gene, when 8 neuroblastoma tissues and 15 neuroblastoma-derived cell lines were examined. Thus, the full-length KIAA0591 gene may be a novel member of human KIF superfamily which lacks motor domain and might function as a tumor suppressor in an epigenetic but not a classic Knudson's manner.

Thoracic aortic dissection in a patient with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease treated with maintenance hemodialysis

A patient with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) on maintenance hemodialysis (HD) experienced spreading back pain with a sudden onset, and was diagnosed with thoracic aortic dissection. Reports of ADPKD with aortic dissection are rare. Hypertension, which is essentially universal both among ADPKD and hemodialysis patients, is a known risk factor for aortic dissection. Additionally, some reports have indicated that patients with ADPKD have aortic fragility. We suspect that aortic dissection may be less rare than presently apparent among HD patients with ADPKD.

Contribution of alpha140Tyr and beta37Trp to the near-UV CD spectra on quaternary structure transition of human hemoglobin A

The CD band of human adult hemoglobin (Hb A) at 280 approximately 290 nm shows a pronounced change from a small positive band to a definite negative band on the oxy (R) to deoxy (T) structural transition. This change has been suggested to be due to environmental alteration of Tyrs (alpha42, alpha140, and beta145) or beta37 Trp residues located at the alpha1beta2 subunit interface by deoxygenation. In order to evaluate contributions of alpha140Tyr and beta37Trp to this change of CD band, we compared the CD spectra of two mutant Hbs, Hb Rouen (alpha140Tyr-->His) and Hb Hirose (beta37Trp-->Ser) with those of Hb A. Both mutant Hbs gave a distinct, but smaller negative CD band at 287nm in the deoxy form than that of deoxyHb A. Contributions of alpha140Tyr and beta37Trp to the negative band at the 280 approximately 290 nm region were estimated from difference spectra to be 30% and 26%, respectively. These results indicate that the other aromatic amino acid residues, alpha42Tyr and beta145Tyr, at the alpha1beta2 interface, are also responsible for the change of the CD band upon the R-->T transition of Hb A.

Novel retinoic acid receptor alpha agonists: syntheses and evaluation of pyrazole derivatives

We have designed and synthesized a series of pyrazole derivatives as candidate retinoic acid receptor (RAR) agonists. One of them, 4-[5-(1, 5-diisopropyl-1H-3-pyrazolyl)-1H-2-pyrrolyl]benzoic acid (11b), which possesses a 2,5-disubstituted pyrrole moiety, showed selective transactivation activity for the RAR alpha receptor, and had highly potent cell-differentiating activity on HL-60 cells.

Syntheses and evaluation of naphthalenyl- and chromenyl-pyrrolyl-benzoic acids as potent and selective retinoic acid receptor alpha agonists

Synthesis and structure activity relationships (SAR) of RAR alpha-selective agonists are discussed. 4-[5-(5,8-Dimethyl-2H-3-chromenyl)-1H-2-pyrrolyl]benzoic acid (12a), which possesses a flat structural moiety and an oxygen atom at the hydrophobic part, showed highly selective transactivation activity at the RAR alpha receptor.

Cancer cells responsible for humoral hypercalcemia express mRNA encoding a secreted form of ODF/TRANCE that induces osteoclast formation

A novel cDNA encoding a secreted form of osteoclast differentiation factor/tumor necrosis factor-related activation-induced cytokine (sODF/TRANCE, GenBank Accession No. AB037599) was sequenced from 5' RACE cDNA clones of squamous cell carcinoma cell lines, SCC-4 and T3M-1 Cl.2, of which parental malignant tissues had caused severe humoral hypercalcemia. The sODF/TRANCE cDNA was composed of unknown 5' end sequence followed by the 100% identical sequence of the ODF/TRANCE extracellular domain-coding region. The longest open reading frame (ORF) of the novel cDNA completely matched the 3' end of the ORF of the ODF/TRANCE cDNA encoding C-terminal amino acid residues (74-318) in the extracellular region. The corresponding protein that reacted with the antibody specific for the extracellular domain of ODF/TRANCE was detected in the culture media conditioned by the cancer cells. Furthermore, human promyeloblastic leukemia cells, HL60, differentiated into osteoclast-like cells (OCLs) when cultured in the media conditioned by SCC-4 and T3M-1 Cl. 2 cells. The differentiation of HL60 cells into OCLs was inhibited by the anti-ODF/TRANCE antibody. These results strongly suggest that sODF/TRANCE plays an important role in enhanced bone-resorption in humoral hypercalcemia of malignancy.

Differential responses of Bcl-2 family genes to etoposide in chronic myeloid leukemia K562 cells

Etoposide is a potent anticancer agent that is used to treat various tumors. We have investigated the dose-dependent effect of etoposide on apoptosis using chronic myeloid leukemia K562 cells treated with low (5 microM) or high (100 microM) concentrations of the drug. At a low concentration, etoposide induced little apoptosis at 24 h, while about 20% of the cells showed apoptosis morphologically at a high concentration. Processing of caspase-3 was slightly detected from 12 h and became obvious at 24 h with 100 microM etoposide. Caspase-3-like protease activity was detected at 24 h with a high concentration. Moreover, these changes were accompanied by cleavage of poly ADP ribose polymerase (PARP). Changes of the mRNA levels of most apoptosis-regulating genes were not prominent at both concentrations, except for the rapid induction of c-IAP-2/HIAP-1 and the down-regulation of Bcl-X(L) by 100 microM etoposide. The downregulation of Bcl-X(L) protein occurred from 6 h, while Bax protein conversely showed a slight increase from 6 h. Taken together, the present findings show that the dose-dependent apoptotic effect of etoposide is based on a change in the balance between Bcl-X(L) and Bax, which precedes the activation of caspase-3.

Syntheses and structure-activity relationships of 5,6,7, 8-tetrahydro-5,5,8,8-tetramethyl-2-quinoxaline derivatives with retinoic acid receptor alpha agonistic activity

In the course of our studies on retinoic acid receptor (RAR) agonists, we have designed and synthesized a series of quinoxaline derivatives. One of them, 4-[5-(5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-5,5,8, 8-tetramethyl-2-quinoxalinyl)-1H-2-pyrrolyl]benzoic acid (3a), which possesses a 2,5-disubstituted pyrrole moiety, showed selectivity for the RARalpha receptor and exerted highly potent cell-differentiating activity on HL-60 cells.

[Evaluation of the operation of supporting programs for social activity of the elderly by city, town, village governments in Japan]

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to clarify the operative situation of the supporting programs for social activity of the elderly by city, town, village governments in 1997.

METHODS

We conducted a study of 3,255 of cities, towns and villages in Japan using a mailed questionnaire, which had been developed to assess the activities of supporting programs for social activity of the elderly. The questionnaire asks government officers whether they had each of the 33 programs in 1997. Each one of these programs belongs to one of the four different aspects of social activities: 1. employment, 2. social participation/volunteering, 3. education/training, 4. individual activities. For each program, the frequency of regions having the program were counted in total, as well as for each of four levels on governments scale: 1. ordinance-designated city, 2. city, 3. town, 4. village. The number of programs operated by the municipality were also evaluated. The main results were as follows One thousand six hundred (49.2%) of cities, towns and villages responded to our questionnaire. 1. Four programs, the promotion of clubs for elderly people, class/lecture meetings for the elderly, sporting events/athletic meetings for the elderly, and a respect-for-age congratulatory gift/money, were put into operation by over 80% of cities, towns and village governments. 2. The number of programs in total or for each of the three aspects of social activities except for social participation/volunteering tended to be high for the large scale governments. There were wide gaps in the number of programs among the regions even of the same level of the government scale. 3. The regions having supporting programs for employment consisted mainly of cities. Seventy-five percent of villages had no supporting program for employment.

CONCLUSION

The operational situation of the supporting programs for social activity of the elderly by city, town, village governments was clarified. Furthermore, results obtained by this study can be used for self-assessment of operational situations by municipalities and can contribute to the activation of their supporting programs.

The perfusion defect seen with SPECT in West syndrome is not correlated with seizure prognosis or developmental outcome

We used interictal single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) on 40 patients with West syndrome to determine whether cortical perfusion abnormalities are closely related to the development of West syndrome and whether they are correlated with the long-term seizure prognosis or the developmental outcome. Localized cortical perfusion abnormalities were seen in 24 patients (60%), while 15 patients (38%) were classified as normal. The remaining patient showed hyperperfusion of the basal ganglia bilaterally. Of 24 patients with localized perfusion abnormalities, unifocal cortical hypoperfusion was present in 11, multifocal hypoperfusion in 10, multiple cortical hypo- and hyperperfusion in one, hyperperfusion of the bilateral frontal cortices and brain stem in one, and focal hyperperfusion in the residual frontal cortex in one. For statistical analysis, we focused on 26 patients (cryptogenic; 10, symptomatic; 16), who were followed for more than 2 years after the onset of tonic spasms (mean 5.0 years). The results showed that focal cortical perfusion abnormalities were not correlated with the long-term seizure prognosis, the developmental outcome, or the response to ACTH therapy. In agreement with previous reports, the results of interictal SPECT suggested that focal cortical lesions play an important role in the development of West syndrome. However, statistical analysis showed that the existence of cortical dysfunction as defined by SPECT did not predict the seizure prognosis or the developmental outcome.

Delays and continuation of hospital visits among HIV-infected persons and AIDS cases in Japan

This study attempts to clarify the distribution patterns of delay between HIV transmission and the first hospital visit among HIV-infected persons and AIDS cases in Japan except those infected through blood products. Such hospital visit patterns were analyzed, and the rates of reporting for HIV/AIDS surveillance among diagnosed HIV-infected persons and AIDS cases in hospitals were shown. From 1991 to 1997, a survey and subsequent follow-up were conducted among HIV-infected persons and AIDS cases diagnosed at 74 hospitals in Tokyo. The numbers of HIV-infected persons and AIDS cases were 590 and 208, respectively. The percentage of patients whose estimated date of HIV transmission was obtained ranged 23-41% among Japanese and non-Japanese HIV-infected persons and AIDS cases. Among these patients, 28% to 86% showed a 3-year delay between HIV transmission and their first hospital visit. The rate of HIV-infected persons who continued to visit hospitals within 1 year after their first visit was 77% for Japanese and 45% for non-Japanese; among those after 1 year or more following their first hospital visit the rate was more than 80% among Japanese and over 70% among non-Japanese. The rate of reporting to HIV/AIDS surveillance among diagnosed HIV-infected persons and AIDS cases was 90% or more after 1994 in Japan. The delay between HIV transmission and the first hospital visit was suggested to be very long. Not a few patients stopped visiting hospitals after only a short time. Most diagnosed HIV-infected persons and AIDS cases were reported to the surveillance system of Japan.

Combined spectral karyotyping and DAPI banding analysis of chromosome abnormalities in myelodysplastic syndrome

Spectral karyotyping (SKY) is a new molecular cytogenetic technique that allows simultaneous visualization of each chromosome in a different color. We have used SKY for comprehensive analysis of 20 myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) (13 primary MDSs, 3 therapy-related MDSs, and 4 acute leukemias developed from MDS, including 1 cell line established from a secondary leukemia), previously analyzed by G-banding. To locate the chromosomal breakpoints, DAPI-counterstained band images from all metaphases were transformed to G-band-like patterns. By using SKY, it was possible to identify the origin and organization of all clonal marker chromosomes (mar), as well as the origin of all abnormalities defined as additional material of unknown origin (add) or homogeneously staining regions (hsr) by G-banding. In total, SKY identified the chromosomal basis of 38 mar, add, and hsr, corrected 8 abnormalities misidentified by G-banding, and revealed 6 cryptic translocations in 5 cases. Total or partial chromosomal loss (mainly of -5/5q- and -7/7q-) is the most frequent cytogenetic abnormality in MDS. In 3 of 11 cases with -5/5q- and in 4 of 8 with -7/7q-, lost material was detected by SKY in unbalanced translocations. A total of 60 chromosomal losses were identified by G-banding in 16 cases with multiple chromosome abnormalities involving at least 3 chromosomes. For 26 of these losses (43%), SKY analysis suggested that the losses were not complete, but had been translocated to a variety of partner chromosomes. Moreover, SKY analysis revealed that a ring chromosome in a case of acute leukemia developed from MDS contained three to six segments that originated from chromosome 21 material. Fluorescence in situ hybridization showed the amplification of the AML1 gene on regions derived from chromosome 21, providing the first evidence of amplification involving this gene in MDS. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 26:336-345, 1999.

[Distributions of the numbers of monitoring stations in the surveillance of infectious diseases in Japan]

To describe the characteristics of monitoring stations for the infectious disease surveillance system in Japan, we compared the distributions of the number of monitoring stations in terms of population, region, size of medical institution, and medical specialty. The distributions of annual number of reported cases in terms of the type of diseases, the size of medical institution, and medical specialty were also compared. We conducted a nationwide survey of the pediatrics stations (16 diseases), ophthalmology stations (3 diseases) and the stations of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) (5 diseases) in Japan. In the survey, we collected the data of monitoring stations and the annual reported cases of diseases. We also collected the data on the population, served by the health center where the monitoring stations existed, from the census. First, we compared the difference between the present number of monitoring stations and the current standard established by the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MHW). Second, we compared the distribution of all medical institutions in Japan and the monitoring stations in terms of the size of the medical institution. Third, we compared the average number of annual reported cases of diseases in terms of the size of medical institution and the medical specialty. In most health centers, the number of monitoring stations achieved the current standard of MHW, while a few health centers had no monitoring station, although they had a large population. Most prefectures also achieved the current standard of MHW, but some prefectures were well below the standard. Among pediatric stations, the sampling proportion of large hospitals was higher than other categories. Among the ophthalmology stations, the sampling proportion of hospitals was higher than other categories. Among the STD stations, the sampling proportion of clinics of obstetrics and gynecology was lower than other categories. Except for some diseases, it made little difference in the average number of annual reported cases of diseases in terms of the type of medical institution. Among STD, there was a great difference in the average number of annual reported cases of diseases in terms of medical specialty.

Messenger RNA level and protein localization of transforming growth factor-beta1 in experimental tooth movement in rats

Transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) is known to be associated with local bone remodeling. We hypothesize that TGF-beta1 is induced in bone and regulates adaptive alveolar bone modeling during tooth movement. To test this hypothesis, we examined the steady-state mRNA level of TGF-beta1 and the protein localization of TGF-beta1 and its type II receptor (TbetaR-II) during experimental tooth movement. Maxillary right molars, M1, M2 and M3, of rats were moved palatally for 1, 3 and 7 d by a finger coil spring anchored to the upper incisors. The contralateral side was used as a control. After 3 d of tooth movement, intense immunostaining for TGF-beta1 and TbetaR-II was observed in cuboidally shaped osteoblasts in the tension zone, and in bone-resorbing osteoclasts in the compression zone. On the control side, few active osteoblasts and osteoclasts were observed. Reverse transcriptase-competitive polymerase chain reaction revealed significant increases in TGF-beta1 mRNA in alveolar bone cells on the tooth movement side on day 3 and day 7. Taken together, our data indicate that TGF-beta1 is induced during tooth movement and we propose that this may regulate adaptive alveolar bone modeling.

Adrenocorticotropic hormone-independent bilateral adrenocortical macronodular hyperplasia treated with mitotane

We report a case of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-independent bilateral macronodular adrenocortical hyperplasia (AIMAH), which was successfully treated with mitotane. A 71-year-old man visited our hospital because of central obesity and enlarged bilateral adrenal glands. The endocrinological studies showed elevated plasma cortisol and undetectable levels of ACTH, a lack of suppression with high-dose dexamethasone and a hyper-response to exogenous ACTH. These clinical features were compatible with the diagnosis of AIMAH. In this patient, extra-adrenal multiple tumors were also detected. After treatment with mitotane, the plasma level of cortisol was decreased while that of ACTH was increased and the signs of Cushing's syndrome were resolved.

[Determination of the numbers of monitoring medical institutions necessary for estimating incidence rates in the surveillance of infectious diseases in Japan]

Our purpose was to determine the number of monitoring stations (medical institutions) necessary for estimating incidence rates in the surveillance system of infectious diseases in Japan. Infectious diseases were selected by the type of monitoring stations: 15 diseases in pediatrics stations, influenza in influenza stations, 3 diseases in ophthalmology stations and 5 diseases in the stations of sexually transmitted diseases (STD). For each type of monitoring station, 5 cases of the number of monitoring stations in each health center, including the number determined from presently established standards and the actual number in 1997, were given. It was assumed that monitoring stations were randomly selected among medical institutions in health centers. For each infectious disease, each case and each type of monitoring station, standard error rates of estimated numbers of incidence cases in the whole country were calculated in 1993-1997 using the data of the surveillance of infectious diseases. Among 5 cases of monitoring stations, the case satisfied the condition that those standard error rates were lower than the critical values, was selected. The critical values were 5% in pediatrics and influenza stations, and 10% in ophthalmology and STD stations. The numbers of monitoring stations in the selected cases were 3,000 in pediatrics stations, 5,000 in influenza stations (including all pediatrics stations), 605 in ophthalmology stations and 900 in STD stations.

A patient with genetic deletion of glutathione-S-transferase T1 and M1 who developed non-small-cell lung cancer and myelodysplastic syndromes

Glutathione S-transferase (GST) M1 polymorphism is a marker for susceptibility to smoking-related neoplasms, such as lung and bladder cancer. Recently, a genetic deletion of GSTT1, an isoenzyme of GST, has been reported to be associated with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). A 59-year-old man with a long-term smoking habit was treated successfully for non-small-cell lung cancer. Four years after the surgical removal of his lung cancer, he developed MDS and died. Using a polymerase chain reaction-based genotyping method, he was found to have a deletion of both the GSTM1 and GSTT1 genes. Screening for the deletion of the GSTM1 and GSTT1 genes may be useful for assessing individual genetic susceptibility to smoking-related lung cancer and MDS.

Decreased expression of p33ING1 mRNA in lymphoid malignancies

The ING1 is a newly cloned putative tumor-suppressor gene, which is involved in the p53 signaling pathway. We found decreased expression of ING1 mRNA in 4 of 5 T-cell lines and 5 of 11 B-cell lines including two Burkitt lymphomas and two myelomas. These observations suggest that decreased ING1 expression might play an important role in the development or progression of some lymphoid tumors. Polymerase chain reaction-SSCP and sequencing analyses found neither point mutations nor small deletions in the ING1 gene, suggesting that decreased expression is due to transcriptional or post-transcriptional mechanisms.

Effect of Lauryl Alcohol on Morphology of Uniform Polystyrene-Poly(methyl methacrylate) Composite Microspheres Prepared by Porous Glass Membrane Emulsification Technique

Fairly uniform poly(styrene)-poly(methyl methacrylate) (PST-PMMA) composite microspheres were prepared by employing an SPG (Shirasu Porous Glass) membrane emulsification technique. A mixture of PST, PMMA, and cosurfactant [lauryl alcohol (LOH)] dissolved in dichloromethane (DCM) was used as the dispersed phase, and an aqueous phase containing poly(vinyl alcohol) and sodium lauryl sulfate was used as the continuous phase. It is necessary to add LOH to obtain uniform particles with the SPG emulsification technique. The effects of the volume of LOH on the morphology of the final particles were investigated by varying the volume of LOH from 0 to 2 ml (per 1.2 g polymer). A three-component model was developed for different PMMA/PST ratios and LOH/polymer ratios, based on Sundberg's theory; and the calculation on morphology was carried out by using the three-component model. Agreement was obtained between experimental and calculated results. When 2 ml of LOH was added, it was found that LOH can engulf the polymer particles completely; a hemicore (HCP1P2P3) morphology, where PST and PMMA formed a hemisphere core inside a LOH shell, was observed when the PMMA/PST ratio was high, while core-shell-shell (CSP1P2P3) morphology, where PMMA formed a core and PST and LOH formed an inner shell and an outer shell, respectively, was observed when the PMMA/PST ratio was low. When the volume of LOH was below 1 ml (per 1.2 g polymer), however, LOH could not always engulf the inner polymer particles completely; cored hemisphere (CHSP3P2P1), core-shell-shell (CSP2P1P3), and hemicore (HCP1P2P3) morphologies were observed, depending on the PMMA/PST ratio and volume of LOH. Copyright 1999 Academic Press.

The effect of combination therapy with interferon and cryofiltration on mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis originating from mixed cryoglobulinemia in chronic hepatitis C virus infection

Cryofiltration, which has developed from double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) with a cooling unit, is an on-line technique to remove cryoglobulin. We report on a patient who suffered from progressive edema and renal insufficiency caused by cryoglobulinemic membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN), probably due to chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. To remove cryoglobulins and terminate the HCV infection, we utilized combination therapy with cryofiltration and interferon-alpha injection with corticosteroids. Interferon-alpha was capable of decreasing proteinuria but not diminishing cryoglobulin. Additional cryofiltration could remove cryoglobulin to an undetectable level. This combination therapy was partially successful to reduce proteinuria and prevent the progressive deterioration of renal function. The major adverse effects of this therapy were bleeding and myelosuppression. We conclude that this combination therapy may be effective and should be considered as treatment for cryoglobulinemic MPGN.

Decreased expression of p33ING1 mRNA in lymphoid malignancies

The ING1 is a newly cloned putative tumor-suppressor gene, which is involved in the p53 signaling pathway. We found decreased expression of ING1 mRNA in 4 of 5 T-cell lines and 5 of 11 B-cell lines including two Burkitt lymphomas and two myelomas. These observations suggest that decreased ING1 expression might play an important role in the development or progression of some lymphoid tumors. Polymerase chain reaction-SSCP and sequencing analyses found neither point mutations nor small deletions in the ING1 gene, suggesting that decreased expression is due to transcriptional or post-transcriptional mechanisms.

Inhibition of lysoPAF acetyltransferase activity by components of licorice root

Licorice root traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory drug exhibited an inhibitory effect on lysoPAF (platelet-activating factor) acetyltransferase in vitro: the ether soluble fraction of the crude drug produced a 27.3% inhibition at a concentration 10 microg/ml. From this fraction, licoricidin (1), 1-methoxyphaseollin (2), 6,8-diprenylgenistein (3) and 1-methoxyphaseollidin (4) were isolated as active components, whose IC50 values were 7.7, 57, 19 and 48 microM, respectively. Licoricidin (1) seems to be one of the most potent compounds of plant origin isolated so far.

Molecular pathologic analysis of the tonsil in HTLV-I-infected individuals

Little is known about the role of the tonsils in HTLV-I infection. We performed molecular pathologic studies of tonsils in individuals positive or negative for anti-HTLV-I antibodies (HTLV-I-Ab) to clarify histologic characteristics of tonsils in HTLV-I infection. We collected tonsils and peripheral blood samples from patients who underwent tonsillectomy in a prospective manner. HTLV-I-Ab in serum was examined and presence of HTLV-I provirus was detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in extracted DNA of both peripheral blood and tonsils. Histopathologic and immunohistochemical evaluations of tonsils were performed. HTLV-I seropositivity and PCR detection of HTLV-I provirus matched perfectly. Tonsil samples from seropositive individuals showed atrophy of the mantle zone and high numbers of T cells in the marginal zone compared with findings in HTLV-I-negative samples. HTLV-I provirus could be detected only from extracted DNA of extrafollicular areas. PCR in situ hybridization also showed positive signals in some mononuclear cells located in the marginal zone. There was a significant correlation between HTLV-I proviral load in tonsils and in peripheral blood. These results suggest the presence of characteristic histologic changes and deviated localization of HTLV-I-infected cells in the tonsils of individuals positive for HTLV-I.

Increased levels of soluble Fas ligand in CSF of rapidly progressive HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis patients

The interaction of Fas ligand (FasL) with Fas-bearing cells induces apoptosis and contributes to the negative regulation of peripheral T-cell responses. Membrane-bound FasL is cleaved by a matrix metalloproteinase-like enzyme and converted to a soluble form (sFasL). Recent studies suggest that such sFasL can cause systemic tissue damage. Here we report that serum and CSF levels of soluble FasL (sFasL) are markedly higher in three active phase patients with HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP). All of these patients showed higher sFasL levels in CSF than in serum. Although the HTLV-1 proviral load of patients showed no correlation with serum or with CSF sFasL, CSF sFasL levels of 14 HAM/TSP patients correlated with the anti-HTLV-1 antibody titer and neopterin concentration in CSF. These results indicate that sFasL mediated mechanisms may contribute to the inflammatory process and subsequent spinal tissue damage seen in HAM/TSP patients.

Atypical Wegener's granulomatosis with positive cytoplasmic antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies, ophthalmologic manifestations, and slowly progressive renal failure without respiratory tract involvement

A 68-year-old woman had microscopic hematuria and proteinuria since the age of 50. She also had hearing impairment, arthralgia, retinal embolism, peripheral arterial occlusion of the right foot and chronic renal failure during the course. At the age of 68, she had progressive renal failure and nephrotic syndrome with high titers of serum cytoplasmic antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (c-ANCA). No evidence of respiratory tract involvement was found. Methylprednisolone pulse therapy and low dose cyclophosphamide therapy ameliorated the renal failure and reduced the serum c-ANCA level. She, however, died on July 19, 1998 due to pulmonary fungal and pneumocystis carinii infection.