Production of transgenic miniature pigs by pronuclear microinjection

Miniature pig is an attractive animal for a wide range of research fields, such as medicine and pharmacology, because of its small size, the possibility of breeding it under minimum environmental controls and the physiology that is potentially similar to that of human. Although transgenic technology is useful for the analysis of gene function and for the development of model animals for various diseases, there have not yet been any reports on producing transgenic miniature pig. This study is the first successful report concerning the production of transgenic miniature pig by pronuclear microinjection. The huntingtin gene cloned from miniature pig, which is a homologue of candidate gene for Huntington's disease, connected with rat neuron-specific enolase promoter region, was injected into a pronucleus of fertilized eggs with micromanipulator. The eggs were transferred into the oviduct of recipient miniature pigs, whose estrus cycles were previously synchronized with a progesterone analogue. A total of 402 injected eggs from 171 donors were transferred to 23 synchronized recipients. Sixteen of them maintained pregnancy and delivered 65 young, and one resulted in abortion. Five of the 68 offspring (three of which were aborted) were determined to have transgene by PCR and Southern analysis. The overall rate of transgenic production was 1.24% (transgenic/injected eggs). This study provides the first success and useful information regarding production of transgenic miniature pig for biomedical research.

The differential effects of stereoisomers of ropivacaine and bupivacaine on cerebral pial arterioles in dogs

We investigated whether the stereoisomers of ropivacaine and bupivacaine exert differential effects on the cerebral microcirculation. Pentobarbital-anesthetized dogs (n = 16) were prepared for measurement of cerebral pial vessel diameters by using a closed cranial window preparation. We administered three different concentrations (10(-7), 10(-5), and 10(-3) M) of each of three drug solutions [R(+), racemic, and S(-) forms of ropivacaine (n = 8) or bupivacaine (n = 8)] under the window in a randomized manner and measured cerebral pial arteriolar diameters. Various physiologic data were obtained before and after topical application of each test solution. All three forms of ropivacaine constricted cerebral pial arterioles, each in a concentration-dependent manner. The rank order for degree of vasoconstriction was S(-) ropivacaine > racemic ropivacaine > R(+) ropivacaine. In contrast, R(+) and racemic bupivacaine dilated, but S(-) bupivacaine constricted, cerebral pial arterioles, each in a concentration-dependent manner. We could find no difference in vascular reactivity to these drugs between large (> or = microm) and small (<100 microm) arterioles. Topical application of these drugs induced no changes in mean blood pressure or heart rate. The observed differences in the microvascular alterations induced by the stereoisomers of ropivacaine and bupivacaine suggest that the vasoactive effects of these drugs on cerebral arterioles could, at least in part, depend on their chirality.

IMPLICATIONS

The differential effects of the stereoisomers of ropivacaine and bupivacaine on cerebral pial vessels could, at least in part, depend on their chirality.

Abnormal behavior of residents in a long-term care facility and the associated stress of care staff members

To survey the factors associated with abnormal behavior in 99 elderly residing in a special nursing home, we investigated the relationships between abnormal behavior and depression as well as impairments in cognition and activities of daily living (ADL), and the stress level of 28 care staff members. The clinical criteria for grading of dementia (intellectual level), the Cornell scale for depression in dementia (CSDD), the dementia behavior disturbance (DBD) scale, and rating of performance of ADL were used to assess behavioral and psychiatric symptoms in the elderly patients. Stress levels of care staff members were assessed using the 'burnout' scale. The DBD scale score correlated with the intellectual level, CSDD score, and three categories of ADL (urinary continence, faecal continence, and comprehension of conversation). The DBD scale score correlated negatively with one category of ADL (eating) in men, but did not correlate with ADL in women. No correlation was found between the burnout scale scores of care staff and either their age or work schedules. Present results showed that abnormal behavior in special nursing home residents correlated with depression as well as cognitive impairment. It is believed that the treatment and management of depression will decrease abnormal behaviors and improve their quality of life in special nursing home residents.

Possible role of orexin A in nonadrenergic, noncholinergic inhibitory response of muscle of the mouse small intestine

The effect of a novel peptide, orexin A, on longitudinal muscle of ICR mouse small intestine was examined in vitro. Exogenous orexin A induced a transient contraction in duodenal, jejunal and ileal segments. Atropine and tetrodotoxin completely inhibited the contractions. Contraction of longitudinal muscle of jejunal segments induced by electrical field stimulation was still observed after the jejunal segment had been desensitized to orexin A, suggesting that orexin A is not a final neurotransmitter to induce the contraction. On the other hand, in the presence of atropine and guanethidine, orexin A induced a transient gradual relaxation in duodenal, jejunal and ileal segments. Electrical field stimulation also induced significant relaxation of the muscle in jejunal segments. The electrical field stimulation-induced relaxation was inhibited by 55% after the desensitization of the segments to orexin A. Although the electrical field stimulation-induced relaxation was inhibited by 47% by a nitric oxide synthesis inhibitor, NG-nitro-L-arginine (L-NOARG), orexin desensitization did not affect the relaxation which persisted after L-NOARG treatment. The exogenous orexin A-induced relaxation was completely inhibited by L-NOARG. The results suggest that orexin A partially mediates nonadrenergic, noncholinergic (NANC) relaxation via activation of nitrergic neurones in longitudinal muscle of ICR mouse small intestine.

Insulin mimetic effect of a tungstate cluster. Effect of oral administration of homo-polyoxotungstates and vanadium-substituted polyoxotungstates on blood glucose level of STZ mice

Aqueous vanadate and aqueous tungstate have been known to mimic all or most of the actions of insulin in intact cell systems with respect to normalization of the blood glucose level. By carrying out oral administration in vivo experiments on the blood glucose level of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes (STZ mice), the insulin-mimetic (IM) effects of metal-oxide clusters of all-inorganic composition were examined using many types of polyoxometalates (POM) with and without vanadium substitution. Several homo-POM and vanadium-substituted POM showed hypoglycemic effects. The observed hypoglycemic effects indicated that POM with the Dawson structure [[alpha-P(2)W(18)O(62)](6-) (W-2), [alpha-P(2)W(17)V(V)O(62)](7-) (V-19) and [alpha-1,2,3-P(2)W(15)V(V)(3)O(62)](9-) (V-04)] are more effective than those with the Keggin structure [[alpha-PW(12)O(40)](3-) (W-1), [alpha-PW(11)V(V)O(40)](4-) (V-01), [alpha-1,2-PW(10)V(V)(2)O(40)](5-) (V-02), [alpha-1,2,3-PW(9)V(V)(3)O(40)](6-) (V-03) and [alpha-1,4,9-PW(9)V(V)(3)O(40)](6-) (V-13)]. The vanadate cluster [V(10)O(28)](6-) (V-15) also showed a hypoglycemic effect. (31)P and (51)V NMR measurements showed that the Dawson POM (W-2, V-04 and V-19) are stable in aqueous solution under the conditions used. The effect of all POM on the body weight of STZ mice was also examined. The decrease in body weight after administration of W-2 was much less than for V-19, V-04 and V-15. This suggests that not only monomeric tungstate and vanadate, but also the structure factors of tungstate and vanadate clusters, can play a significant role in their biological action.

[Contrivance for frozen section diagnosis of early minute lung cancer during operation]

We reported the technique of pathological diagnosis for minute lung cancer lesion of early stage during operation. Target lesion for our technique may be less than 1 cm in size and not be detected by palpation. Our technique may superior to usual method of frozen section of tissue specimen without fixation. At first, resected lung specimen was fixed by injection of 20% formalin solution subsequent warming by microwave oven for 40 seconds. Almost all lesions may be detected in proper thickness of specimen. Specimen was washed out and steeped in the 20% of sucrose solution for 30 to 60 seconds in order to avoid crystallization of water that was contained within lung specimen. Then thin sliced section of specimen was made by Cryostat in usual method. The minute cancer lesion was able to detect more easy than usual method of making frozen section of specimen. Formalin fixed and sucrose steeped frozen section may be able to evaluate the surgical margin from cancer exactly than the section made by non-fixed specimen.

Bioactive titanium: effect of sodium removal on the bone-bonding ability of bioactive titanium prepared by alkali and heat treatment

As reported previously, bioactive titanium is prepared by simple alkali and heat treatment, and can bond to living bone directly. The purpose of this study was to accelerate the bioactivity of bioactive titanium in vivo. In in vitro study, sodium removal by hot water immersion enhanced the apatite-forming ability of bioactive titanium in simulated body fluid dramatically. The specific anatase structure of titania gel was effective for apatite formation in vitro. In the current study, we investigated the in vivo effect of sodium removal on the bone-bonding strength of bioactive titanium. Sodium-free bioactive titanium plates were prepared by immersion in an aqueous solution of 5 M NaOH at 60 degrees C for 24 h, followed by immersion in distilled water at 40 degrees C for 48 h before heating them at 600 degrees C for 1 h. Three kinds of titanium plates were inserted into rabbit tibiae, including untreated cp-Ti, conventional alkali- and heat-treated Ti, and sodium-free alkali- and heat-treated Ti. In vivo bioactive performance was examined mechanically and histologically after 4, 8, 16, and 24 weeks. Sodium removal enhanced the bone-bonding strength of bioactive titanium at 4 and 8 weeks postoperatively; however, its bone-bonding strength was inferior to that of conventional alkali- and heat-treated titanium at 16 and 24 weeks. Histological examinations after the detaching test revealed breakage of the treated layer in the sodium-free alkali- and heat-treated titanium group. In conclusion, sodium removal accelerated the in vivo bioactivity of bioactive titanium and achieved faster bone-bonding because of its anatase surface structure, but the loss of the surface's graded structure due to the complete removal of sodium decreased the adhesive strength of the treated layer to the titanium substrate. Further investigations are required to determine the optimum conditions for preparation of bioactive titanium.

Simultaneous detection of cholyl adenylate and coenzyme A thioester utilizing liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization mass spectrometry

It has been proposed that acyl adenylate is first formed during activation of the carboxy group into the acyl CoA thioester, an intermediate in the formation of amino acid conjugates. Acyl CoA synthetases may be responsible for this acyl adenylate formation. Recently, we hypothesized the preferential formation of cholic acid adenylate, a major bile acid, preceding production of the corresponding CoA thioester in incubations with rat liver microsomal fractions. To verify this biosynthetic mechanism, monitoring of the incubation mixture of acyl adenylate together with both substrate and acyl CoA thioester is needed. We have developed a detection method for the simultaneous detection of these cholic acid derivatives utilizing liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. The CoA thioester of cholic acid forms a chelation complex with the divalent cations remaining on the silica gel packed into the analytical column. Both the addition of a chelating agent, such as EDTA, to the mobile phase and an adjustment of the mobile phase pH to a weak alkaline effectively removed such chelate formation, producing a sharp CoA thioester peak. For a simultaneous mass spectrometric analysis of cholic acid, the corresponding adenylate and CoA thioester, the combined use of a 300 A particle diameter ODS column and 20 mM ammonium acetate buffer (pH 9.0)/2-propanol/acetonitrile as the mobile phase have been proved to be preferable. To avoid any degradation of the chemically unstable adenylate produced in the incubation, we employed a direct injection of the sample onto a preconcentration column. The obtained results indicated a high sensitivity of this method.

MR imaging of soft-tissue masses of the extraperitoneal spaces

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging has an increasing role in evaluating soft-tissue masses of the extraperitoneal spaces. Since the MR imaging features of most soft-tissue masses are nonspecific, prediction of a specific histologic diagnosis remains a challenge for the radiologist. However, there are certain specific MR imaging appearances that are helpful for more accurate diagnosis. Some histologic components, such as myxoid stroma, collagen fibers, calcification, and fat, have characteristic MR imaging features. Recognition of these features can assist the radiologist in limiting the differential diagnosis. Dynamic enhancement patterns can reflect the vascularity of masses and may be useful in diagnosis, especially in differentiating benign from malignant soft-tissue masses. Familiarity with specific signs and knowledge of diagnostic pitfalls are also important for shortening the list of differential diagnoses. Specific signs are the target sign, the bowl of fruit sign, a whorled appearance, a flow void, speckled enhancement, associated lymphadenopathy, and extension into the intervertebral foramen. Diagnostic pitfalls are as follows: a myxoid stroma simulating cystic degeneration and necrosis, collagen fibers simulating hemorrhage, a fat component simulating extraperitoneal fat, extensive intratumoral hemorrhage simulating hematoma, benign masses mimicking malignant ones, malignant masses mimicking benign ones, and peritoneal lesions mimicking extraperitoneal masses.

Malignant amelanotic melanoma of the middle ear

We report the first case (to our knowledge) of malignant melanoma of amelanotic type arising from the mucosa of the middle ear. An 81-year-old man who presented with right hearing loss was diagnosed as having otitis media with effusion at an otolarygology clinic. Despite subsequent treatment, he developed otorrhea and otalgia. Furthermore, a granular mass was found in the pars flaccida of the tympanic membrane. A biopsy of the mass was performed, and the findings were suggestive of malignant melanoma. The disease was already in an advanced stage, because metastases were noted in the patient's lungs and liver. Although chemohormonal therapy was performed and was slightly effective in reducing the primary tumor, the patient died of acute renal failure. Autopsy confirmed the diagnosis of amelanotic melanoma of the middle ear.

Influences of caffeine to nitric oxide production and zonisamide concentration in the brain of seizure-susceptible EL mice

To investigate changes of nitric oxide (NO) productions and zonisamide (ZNS) concentrations in the brain of seizure-susceptible EL mice given caffeine orally, mice were given caffeine (600 microg/mL) solution ad libitum as a drinking fluid for 1-3 weeks. Nitric oxide production in the brain was determined by measuring levels of nitrite plus nitrate (NOx). The brain NOx levels of mice treated with caffeine for 3 weeks were significantly higher than the control. Seizures in mice treated with caffeine for 2 and 3 weeks were not suppressed by ZNS at a dose of 75 mg/kg. Serum ZNS concentrations of mice with caffeine intake for 1-3 weeks were higher than in untreated mice. Conversely, brain ZNS concentrations of mice with caffeine intake for the same periods were significantly lower than in untreated mice. These results suggested that caffeine influenced brain NO production and ZNS concentrations in the seizure susceptibility of EL mice.

A solvent used for antiepileptic drugs increases serum and brain zonisamide concentrations in seizure-susceptible el mice

Effects of a solvent mixture commonly used to dissolve antiepileptic drugs on the anticonvulsive effect as well as serum and brain concentrations of zonisamide (ZNS), a sulfonamide derivative, were investigated. The solvent mixture consisted of propylene glycol (PG, 40%) and ethanol (10.5%) in saline (PES). Intraperitoneal administration of ZNS at 25, 50, and 75 mg/kg dissolved in PES suppressed seizures in the EL strain of mice more effectively than the same doses of ZNS in saline. Serum and brain concentrations of the drug were significantly higher with PES than with saline as the vehicle for administration. At a dose of 75 mg/kg ip, both serum and brain ZNS concentrations in mice treated with ZNS in PES remained significantly higher than concentrations in mice treated with ZNS in saline from 1 to 6 hours after injection. PES mixtures including PG may not be suitable solvents for antiepileptic drugs in experiments investigating anticonvulsive effects.

Hexagonal Frank--Kasper phases interpreted as modulated crystals

The structures of the hexagonal Frank--Kasper phases F and K, which have been described in terms of the aggregation of clusters, are interpreted as modulated crystal structures. They are basically composed of two close-packed layers with ordered atomic vacancies rotated by 90 degrees to each other about their normal.

Alterations of nitric oxide and monoamines in the brain of the EL mouse treated with phenobarbital and zonisamide

The effects of phenobarbital (PB; doses, 5, 10, and 25 mg/kg, intraperitoneally (i.p.)) and zonisamide (ZNS; doses, 30, 75, and 150 mg/kg, i.p.) on nitric oxide (NO) production, and those of coadministration of PB (5 mg/kg, i.p.) and ZNS (75 mg/kg, i.p.) on monoamines in the brain of the seizure-susceptible EL mouse were investigated. Nitric oxide production was obtained by measuring the combined level of nitrite plus nitrate (NOx). Zonisamide and PB dose-dependently suppressed the seizure of the EL mouse, and coadministration of PB (5 mg/kg) and ZNS (75 mg/kg) induced a greater degree of seizure suppression than treatment with ZNS or PB alone. Although PB (5 mg/kg) had no effect on brain NOx levels, ZNS (150 mg/kg) and coadministration of ZNS (75 mg/kg) and PB (5 mg/kg) decreased NOx levels significantly. Phenobarbital (5 mg/kg) did not influence monoamines, while coadministration of PB (5 mg/kg) and ZNS (75 mg/kg) decreased dihydroxyphenylacetic acid and increased 5-HT concentrations. The effect of the coadministration of two drugs on monoamines were similar to that of ZNS alone. These results suggest that one of the anticonvulsant effects of coadministration of PB and ZNS may be caused by changes in NOx levels.

Genetic and functional analysis of PARP, a DNA strand break-binding enzyme

Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) is a nuclear enzyme activated by binding to a single- or double-strand break of DNA and is one of the death substrates for caspase-3 in apoptosis. The nuclear function of PARP is well studied and recent PARP-knockout studies indicate that PARP takes part in chromosomal stability. To analyze the effect of PARP overexpression, or loss of function, we have cloned PARP cDNA and the gene from Drosophila melanogaster and studied its function in developmental stages. Organization of exons corresponds to the functional domains of PARP. An alternatively spliced form of PARP lacking exon 5, which encodes the auto-modification domain, is found in Drosophila. Expression of the PARP gene is at high levels in embryos at 0-6h after egg laying and gradually decreased. In situ mRNA hybridization indicates localization of PARP mRNA in cells along the central nervous system at a late stage of embryogenesis. Overexpression of the gene in the developing eye primordia of D. melanogaster is an excellent experimental model to analyze the cell cycle and programmed cell death. We introduced PARP expression vector overexpresses PARP in the eye discs of Drosophila, and established the PARP transgenic flies by P element-mediated germ line transformation. These flies showed mild roughening of the normally smooth ommatidial lattice involving tissue polarity disruption characterized by missrotation and incorrect chirality of ommatidia. Possible mechanisms of involvement of PARP in the development are discussed.

Studies on new platelet aggregation inhibitors 1. Synthesis of 7-nitro-3,4-dihydroquinoline-2(1H)-one derivatives

A series of 6-cyclic aliphatic amino-7-nitro-3,4-dihydroquinoline-2(1H)-ones were prepared and tested for platelet aggregation inhibitory effect, cardiotonic activity and chronotropic activity. These compounds appeared to show selective inhibitory activity against platelet aggregation. Among them, 6-(4-ethoxycarbonylpiperidino)-7-nitro-3,4-dihydroquinoline-2(1H)-one (22f) showed the most potent inhibitory activity and high selectivity. A divergent synthetic route to 6-cyclic aliphatic amino-7-nitro-3,4-dihydroquinoline-2(1H)-one derivatives has also been investigated.

Antidepressant effects of apocynum venetum leaves in a forced swimming test

An extract of the leaves of Apocynum venetum L. (Apocynaceae) markedly shortened the immobility time of male rats in a forced swimming test (FST) in a dose range of 30-125 mg/kg, indicating a possible antidepressant activity. This effect was comparable to that of the tricyclic antidepressant imipramine (20 mg/kg). Neither imipramine (20 mg/kg) nor the Apocynum extract in various doses (30, 60, 125 mg/kg) produced any overt behavioural change or motor dysfunction in the open field test. This result confirms the assumption that the antidepressant effect of an Apocynum extract in the FST is specific. Further, it can be speculated that this effect might be related to hyperoside and isoquercitrin which are major flavonoids in the extract.

CAM-cytarabine, aclarubicin plus macrophage colony-stimulating factor in the treatment of acute myelogenous leukemia with trilineage dysplasia: usefulness of in vitro apoptosis in leukemic cells

A 67-year-old woman was treated for acute myelogenous leukemia with trilineage dysplasia (AML-TLD) by combination chemotherapy with cytarabine, aclarubicin plus macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) (referred to as CAM therapy). Complete remission was achieved after two courses of CAM therapy. After coculture of her bone marrow mononuclear cells with M-CSF in vitro, differentiation of leukemic cells into macrophages with apoptotis was observed. This case confirms an earlier report that an effect of M-CSF inducible by differentiation with apoptotic phenomena, against human leukemic cells was shown both in vitro and in vivo when achieving complete remission.

Identification of volatile selenium compounds produced in the hydride generation system from organoselenium compounds

We report a novel aqueous derivatization of selenomethionine (Semet), selenoethionine (Seet) and trimethylselenonium ion (TmSe) by NaBH4 and HCI to volatile selenium species, namely, diethyldiselenide (DeDSe), dimethyldiselenide (DMDSe), dimethylselenide (DmSe) and ethylhydrogenselenide (ESeH), in the hydride generation (HG) system. The volatile selenium compounds produced in the HG system were on-line trapped and concentrated in a U-tube that was immersed in the liquid nitrogen trap. The trapped volatile Se compounds were volatilized at 80 degrees C in a water bath, and 50-500 microL of volatile gas was injected into the GC/AED and GC/MS, respectively. It has been established that DmSe, DmDSe, and DeDSe are the predominant Se compounds that are produced in the HG system from TmSe, Semet, and Seet, respectively, followed by ESeH from Seet. Analytical methods previously employed have stated that these compounds are inactive in the HG system. Prior decomposition of Semet, Seet, and TmSe to selenous acid is essential before HG. To the best of our knowledge, current findings for the production and identification of volatile selenium compounds in the HG system are new and different from existing reports; hence, direct estimation of Semet, Seet, and TmSe is possible when coupling with a HG system using a suitable Se-specific detector.

MRI of ganglioneuroma: histologic correlation study

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the MR findings of ganglioneuroma and to correlate imaging and histologic features.

METHOD

Conventional SE and contrast-enhanced dynamic MRI was used to examine 10 patients with pathologically confirmed ganglioneuroma. The morphologic features, signal intensity, and dynamic enhancement pattern of the tumors were retrospectively analyzed and correlated with histologic features.

RESULTS

Capsules were present in all tumors histologically and were also detected in five tumors on postcontrast T1-weighted images. A whorled appearance corresponding to interlacing bundles of Schwann cells and collagen fibers on histologic specimens was visualized in five tumors on T1-and/or T2-weighted images. Tumors with markedly high signal intensity on T2-weighted images consisted histologically of a large amount of myxoid stroma and relatively few cellular and fibrous components. Tumors with intermediate to high signal intensity consisted of numerous cellular and fibrous components and little myxoid stroma. Early enhancement of tumors was usually lacking in dynamic MR studies; however enhancement gradually increased.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that the MR features of ganglioneuroma are well correlated with histologic findings.

The effects of alpha-human atrial natriuretic peptide and milrinone on pial vessels during blood-brain barrier disruption in rabbits

The effects of alpha-human atrial natriuretic peptide (HANP) and milrinone on cerebral pial vessels, especially during blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption, are not clear. We studied topical HANP (10(-14), 10(-12), and 10(-10) M) or milrinone (10(-7), 10(-5), and 10(-3) M), and IV HANP (0.1, 0.2, and 1.0 microg. kg(-1). min(-1)) or milrinone (0.5, 5.0, and 20.0 microg. kg(-1). min(-1)) with or without hyperosmolar BBB disruption, using a rabbit cranial window preparation. At 10(-12) and 10(-10) M topical HANP produced significant arteriolar (16%, 20%, respectively), but no venular dilation. Topical milrinone (10(-3) M) produced significant arteriolar and venular dilation (21%, 8%, respectively). IV HANP produced no arteriolar or venular changes at any dose except during BBB disruption, when it caused a significant arteriolar (16%, 16%, and 17%, respectively), but no venular dilation. In contrast, IV milrinone caused small but significant arteriolar and venular dilation without BBB disruption (arterioles, 6%, 7% and 8%, respectively; venules, 6% at 20.0 microg. kg(-1). min(-1)). During BBB disruption, these responses to milrinone were similar. Although HANP and milrinone each have a direct vasodilator effect on arterioles, their systemic administration at clinical doses could induce different effects. BBB disruptive conditions could increase the response of pial vessels to systemically administered HANP.

IMPLICATIONS

Although alpha-human atrial natriuretic peptide (HANP) and milrinone each have a direct vasodilator effect on cerebral pial arterioles, their systemic administration at clinical doses could have different effects and blood-brain-barrier disruptive conditions could alter the response of pial vessels to HANP, but not to milrinone.

Determination of subyoctomole amounts of nonfluorescent molecules using a thermal lens microscope: subsingle-molecule determination

The photothermal effect of an ultratrace amount of nonfluorescent molecules in liquid was determined by optimizing the optical arrangement for a thermal lens microscope. The optimized experimental setup could be determined from the evaluation of probing volume and the concentration of the sample solutions even when the expectation of the molecule number in the probing region was less than a single molecule. The minimum expectation, which is explained as being the time average, was 0.4 molecule of Pb(II) octaethylporphyrin (OEP) in benzene. The concentrations in the 9.7 x 10(-11)-7.8 x 10(-10) M region used in this work corresponded to the expected number of 0.4-3.4 molecules, and the calibration curve in this region showed good linearity. Taking into account the enhancement factor of solvent, the molar absorption coefficient of solute, and the optimization of the optical arrangement, the present result, which was the determination limit of 0.34, was consistent with that previously reported. The relation between molecular behavior in the probing volume and the signal was discussed. The average temperature rise in the probing volume by the photothermal effect for the single OEP molecule was estimated as 3.1 muK, and this value was detectable, based on conventional thermal lens measurements for bulk scale sample.

Enhancement of phenylephrine-induced contraction in the isolated rat aorta with endothelium by H2O-extract from an Oriental medicinal plant Leonuri herba

Leonuri herba (I-mu-ts'ao, the Chinese motherwort) is an ancient Chinese traditional herb. Although the pharmacological effects of extracts of Leonuri herba have been shown in platelets and uteri, the effect on the vascular system has not been determined. In the present study, we investigated the effects of extracts of Leonuri herba on the contraction of the isolated rat aorta. Although the H20-extract (0.3-3 mg/ml) by itself showed a limited effect, the extract enhanced phenylephrine-induced contraction of the aorta with endothelium, but not without endothelium. The H20-extract, like N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase), significantly inhibited the relaxation induced by acetylcholine in the aorta with endothelium. The inhibitory effect of H20-extract on the relaxation decreased by co-addition with 1 mM L-arginine. The vasoconstrictive effect of H20-extract was not due to leonurine, which is a constituent in Leonuri herba and shows uterotonic activity. Intravenous injection of the H20-extract (1.5 mg/kg) to rats caused an increase in blood pressure for 5 min, like L-NAME (1.35 mg/kg). These findings suggest that there is a component(s) in Leonuri herba, which shows a vasoconstrictive activity in rat aorta in vitro and in vivo and has similar pharmacological profile to that of L-NAME.

Forkhead family transcription factor FKHRL1 is expressed in human megakaryocytes. Regulation of cell cycling as a downstream molecule of thrombopoietin signaling

FKHRL1, a member of the Forkhead transcription factor family, is one of the downstream molecules of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-Akt. This molecule is a mammalian homolog of DAF-16, which plays an important role in the longevity of Caenorhabditis elegans. In this study we found that Akt and FKHRL1 proteins were detectable in highly purified normal human megakaryocytes and that these molecules were actually phosphorylated by thrombopoietin (TPO). To clarify the functional role of FKHRL1 in TPO signaling, we established a tetracycline-inducible system in the human TPO-dependent leukemia cell line UT-7/TPO. Induced expression of active FKHRL1 led to cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase in this cell line. These results suggest that FKHRL1 plays an important role in the cell cycle of megakaryocytic cells as one of the downstream target molecules of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-Akt, presumably mediated through the activation or inactivation of cell cycle-associated gene(s).

Doppler-shifted cyclotron absorption of electron Bernstein waves via N( parallel)-upshift in a Tokamak plasma

Extraordinary (X) waves are perpendicularly injected for electron Bernstein (B) wave heating into an Ohmically heated plasma from the inboard side in the WT-3 tokamak. Measurements show that absorption does not take place at the electron cyclotron resonance layer nor the upper hybrid resonance layer, but does happen midway between them. This is consistent with the ray tracing prediction, i.e., the poloidal field and poloidal inhomogeneity of toroidal field lead the B waves to have a large parallel refractive index N( parallel) (>1), and the B waves are damped away via the Doppler-shifted cyclotron resonance.

Prognostic factors and survival after hepatic resection for hepatocellular carcinoma without cirrhosis

BACKGROUND

Detailed follow-up of patients with chronic hepatitis has resulted in increased diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients without cirrhosis. Despite numerous studies on hepatic resection, the prognostic factors for intrahepatic recurrence and survival are not well known for patients with HCC without cirrhosis.

METHODS

Among 349 patients with HCC treated in the past 13 years, cirrhosis was absent in 126 patients (36 per cent). Curative hepatic resection was carried out in 100 (79 per cent) of these patients. Risk factors for intrahepatic recurrence and prognostic factors for survival were evaluated by univariate and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

Postoperative morbidity and mortality rates were 22 and 3 per cent respectively. The 5- and 10-year disease-free and overall survival rates were 31 and 50 per cent, and 22 and 47 per cent respectively. Blood loss, surgical resection margin, intrahepatic metastasis, portal vein invasion and extent of hepatic resection were independently associated with overall survival. However, the only risk factors for intrahepatic recurrence were portal vein invasion and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The former was related to early recurrence while the latter was related to later recurrence. The 5-year disease-free survival rate was 58 per cent in patients with hepatitis B virus infection while it was 6 per cent in patients with HCV infection (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

In the treatment of HCC without cirrhosis, major hepatectomy is advocated to prevent early recurrence. Liver transplantation may be required for patients with HCV infection.

Familial Del(18p) syndrome

We report on sibs and their mother, all with del(18p). The propositus, an 11-month-old, had developmental delay, round face, hypertelorism, large ears, broad nasal bridge, upturned nostrils, micrognathia, a high palate, redundant skin around the neck, micropenis, and cryptorchidism. The elder sister, a two and 7/12-year-old, had round face, hypertelorism, broad nasal bridge, narrow and high palate, redundant skin around the neck, short fingers, and hypoplastic genitalia. Their mother had microcephaly, hypertelorism, prominent columella, broad nasal bridge, wide mouth, high palate, malaligned teeth, and clinodactyly of the fifth fingers. Serial photographs of the mother showed that the characteristic round face in infancy changed to long face with age. The present report suggests that the mother with del(18p) may be fertile, and proper genetic counseling and long follow-up is necessary for the patient with del(18p) syndrome.

Transcriptional induction of matrix metalloproteinase-13 (collagenase-3) by 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 in mouse osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells

The removal of unmineralized matrix from the bone surface is essential for the initiation of osteoclastic bone resorption because osteoclasts cannot attach to the unmineralized osteoid. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are known to digest bone matrix. We recently reported that among the MMPs expressed in mouse osteoblastic cells, MMP-13 (collagenase-3) was the one most predominantly up-regulated by bone resorbing factors including 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1alpha,25(OH)2D3]. In this study, we examined the mechanism of regulation of MMP-13 expression by 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 in mouse osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells. 1Alpha,25(OH)2D3 increased steady-state messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels of MMP-13. De novo protein synthesis was essential for the induction because cycloheximide (CHX) decreased the effect of 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 on the MMP-13 mRNA level. 1Alpha,25(OH)2D3 did not alter the decay of MMP-13 mRNA in transcriptionally arrested MC3T3-E1 cells; however, it increased the MMP-13 heterogeneous nuclear RNA (hnRNA) level and MMP-13 transcriptional rate. The binding activity of nuclear extracts to the AP-1 binding site, but not to the Cbfa1 binding site, in the MMP-13 promoter region was up-regulated by 1alpha,25(OH)2D3, suggesting the mediation of AP-1 in this transcriptional induction. To determine the contribution of MMPs to bone resorption by 1alpha,25(OH)2D3, the inhibitory effect of BB94, an MMP inhibitor, on resorbed pit formation by mouse crude osteoclastic cells was examined on either an uncoated or collagen-coated dentine slice. BB94 did not prevent resorbed pit formation on uncoated dentine whereas it did on collagen-coated dentine. We therefore propose that the transcriptional induction of MMP-13 in osteoblastic cells may contribute to the degradation of unmineralized matrix on the bone surface as an early step of bone resorption by 1alpha,25(OH)2D3.

[Transdermal microparticle delivery by a supersonic-Helios gun system]

AIM

To investigate the effect of particle size and high speed flow of helium gas on the systemic absorption of indomethacin using a needle-less injection system.

METHODS

Poly-L-lactic acid microspheres containing indomethacin was prepared by the o/w solvent evaporation technique. After anesthetizing the male hairless rat, microspheres filled in the tube cartridge was accelerated by a stream of helium gas at various velocity in the Helios gun system, and then was introduced to the abdominal skin.

RESULTS

Introduction of indomethacin to the hairless rat skin was proportionally increased with enhancing the helium pressure (supersonic flow). Bioavailability and Cmax were also dependent on the helium pressure.

CONCLUSION

This method can be used to deliver the powered drug and/or microparticulate systems into the skin tissues and the systemic circulation.

Long-term follow-up of asymptomatic patients with major artery occlusion: rate of symptomatic change and evaluation of cerebral hemodynamics

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The natural history of asymptomatic major cerebral artery occlusive disease is unclear. Rate of symptomatic change, appearance of new lesions on MR images, and cerebral hemodynamics were analyzed for patients with asymptomatic major cerebral artery occlusion.

METHODS

This prospective study included asymptomatic patients who had occlusive disease between 1992 and 1995. MR imaging and MR angiography were used to detect internal carotid artery (ICA) or middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion in 3965 neurologically asymptomatic patients and for follow-up of affected patients for 67 to 105 months (mean, 79 months). Regional cerebral blood flow and cerebrovascular reserve capacity were examined by xenon-enhanced CT at rest and after the administration of acetazolamide, respectively.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients had MCA occlusion and 17 had ICA occlusion. During the follow-up period, five patients became symptomatic (four with MCA occlusion and one with ICA occlusion), with no significant difference (P = .332) in the rate of symptomatic change. Among these five patients, new infarction occurred on the ipsilateral side in three patients, contralateral side in one, and bilateral sides in one. New stenotic or occlusive changes occurred in three patients. The patients were divided into groups: group A, without new lesions on MR images (n = 23), and group B, with new lesions (n = 12). There was no significant difference in regional cerebral blood flow value between groups A and B in the whole hemisphere, anterior cerebral artery territory, or MCA territory. There was a significant difference in cerebrovascular reserve capacity between groups A and B between the affected side (P = .00051 and P = .00068, respectively) and the contralateral side (P = .00101 and P = .00115, respectively) for the whole hemisphere and MCA territory, and the difference was more severe on the affected side in both regions.

CONCLUSION

These pilot data suggest that asymptomatic MCA occlusion has a worse prognosis than does ICA occlusion. Silent events are common bilaterally. This may be because of hemodynamic factors or perhaps MCA occlusion is a marker for a more progressive type of atherosclerosis. A prospective study involving assessment of hemodynamics and baseline stroke risk factors in patients with MCA occlusion is indicated.

Nitric oxide donating compounds inhibit HCl-induced gastric mucosal lesions mainly via prostaglandin

Prostaglandin (PG) and nitric oxide (NO) have been known to inhibit the lesion formation induced by necrotic agents. However, no clear correlation between PG and NO has been shown in the gastroprotective action against necrotic agent-induced gastric mucosal lesions in rats. Thus, the present study was performed to clarify this correlation. Gastric mucosal lesions were induced by the oral administration of 0.6 M HCl in rats. 16,16-Dimethyl PGE2 (0.3-3 microg/kg, p.o.; dim-PGE2), sodium nitrite (0.3 and 1 mg/kg, s.c.) and sodium nitroprusside (30 and 100 microg/kg, i.v.; SNP) dose-dependently inhibited the lesion formation. Orally administered sodium nitrite or SNP (3 mg/kg) also significantly inhibited the lesion formation. The gastroprotective action by dim-PGE2 was not affected by the pre-treatment with N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methylester (10 mg/kg, i.v.). The gastroprotective effect by sodium nitrite or SNP was markedly attenuated by the pre-treatment with indomethacin (10 mg/kg, s.c.). These findings suggest that NO donating compounds inhibit the HCl-induced mucosal lesions mainly through prostaglandin, but dim-PGE2 directly inhibits the lesions without involvement of NO in rats.

Effects of MK-801, dantrolene, and FK506 on convulsive seizures and brain nitric oxide production in seizure-susceptible EL mice

To clarify the role of nitric oxide (NO) in the pathogenesis of seizures in susceptible EL mice, we investigated effects of three drugs potentially related to NO production, MK-801, dantrolene, and FK506, on convulsive seizures and brain NO metabolites (NOx). MK-801 or dantrolene, but not FK506, suppressed convulsive seizures in EL mice; only MK-801 reduced NOx in the brain. Our results suggested involvement of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-channel complex and intracellular calcium mobilization, but not calcineurin, in the convulsions of EL mice.

A functional role of mitogen-activated protein kinases, Erk1 and Erk2, in the differentiation of a human leukemia cell line, UT-7/GM: A possible key factor for cell fate determination toward erythroid and megakaryocytic lineages

The mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase cascade is a key regulator of mammalian cell proliferation and differentiation. In this study, we examined the roles of 2 members of the MAP kinase family, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 (Erk1) and Erk2, in erythropoietin (EPO)-induced erythroid differentiation and thrombopoietin (TPO)-induced megakaryocytic differentiation. UT-7/GM was used as a model system because this cell line is an erythroid/megakaryocytic bipotent cell line that can be induced to differentiate into the erythroid and megakaryocytic lineages by EPO and TPO, respectively. The kinetics of activation of Erk1 and Erk2 were examined during erythroid and megakaryocytic differentiation of UT-7/GM cells. EPO induced a transient activation of these kinases, peaking after 1 minute of stimulation and then declining quickly almost to the basal level. In contrast, TPO-induced activation of the kinases peaked at 10 minutes and persisted for up to 60 minutes, similar to the activation by granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor. The percentage of EPO-induced hemoglobin-positive cells was elevated by the addition of PD98059, a specific inhibitor of MEK1 (MAP kinase/ERK kinase 1). In contrast, PD98059 clearly reduced the amount of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa antigens induced by TPO on UT-7/GM cells. Thus, inactivation of Erk1 and Erk2 kinases promoted EPO-induced erythroid differentiation and suppressed TPO-induced megakaryocytic differentiation of UT-7/GM cells. In conclusion, the activation of Erk1 and Erk2 kinases may be a critical event in the determination of cell fate and the differentiation processes of the erythroid and megakaryocytic lineages.

Parathyroid hormone increases the expression level of matrix metalloproteinase-13 in vivo

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) increases serum calcium (Ca) by enhancing bone resorption and renal Ca reabsorption. However, detailed mechanisms of enhanced bone resorption by PTH remain to be elucidated. Although PTH has been shown to increase the expression level of osteoblastic matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-13 in vitro, only limited results are available regarding the in vivo regulation of MMP expression. In the present study, we have examined expression levels of MMPs in PTH-infused rats. Infusion of 1.5 or 2.0 nmol/kg/day rat PTH(1-34) for 3 days resulted in a dose-dependent increase in serum Ca. PTH infusion also decreased serum phosphate levels and increased urinary excretion of Ca and phosphate. Infusion of PTH for 7 days resulted in less severe hypercalcemia and hypophosphatemia. Urinary Ca and phosphate excretion in rats infused for 7 days was less than that in rats infused for 3 days. Northern blot analysis showed that PTH infusion increased the expression level of MMP-13 in calvaria, although it did not affect MMP-2 expression. Furthermore, the time-course and severity of hypercalcemia and hypercalciuria correlated with the expression level of MMP-13. In situ hybridization also showed that PTH infusion increased the expression level of MMP-13 in femora. These results indicate that PTH enhances MMP-13 expression in vivo and suggest that PTH stimulates bone resorption at least partly by enhancing MMP-13 expression.

Bartonella infection associated with systemic juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

A 4-year-old girl with systemic juvenile rheumatoid arthritis had Bartonella infection diagnosed serologically. This case suggested that Bartonella (most probably Bartonella henselae) infection may in part be responsible for the development of systemic juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.

In vitro characterization of the oxidative cleavage of the octyl side chain of olanexidine, a novel antimicrobial agent, in dog liver microsomes

The metabolism of olanexidine [1-(3,4-dichlorobenzyl)-5-octylbiguanide], a new potent biguanide antiseptic, was investigated in dog liver microsomes to characterize the enzyme(s) catalyzing the biotransformation of olanexidine to C-C bond cleavage metabolites. Olanexidine was initially biotransformed to monohydroxylated metabolite 2-octanol (DM-215), and DM-215 was subsequently oxidized to diol derivatives threo-2,3-octandiol (DM-221) and erythro-2,3-octandiol (DM-222). Diols were further biotransformed to a ketol derivative and C-C bond cleavage metabolite (DM-210, hexanoic acid derivative), an in vivo end product, in the incubation with dog liver microsomes. The formations of DM-215, DM-221, DM-222, and DM-210 followed Michaelis-Menten kinetics, and Eadie-Hofstee analysis of the metabolite formation activity confirmed single-enzyme Michaelis-Menten kinetics. The K(m) and V(max) values for the formation of DM-210 appeared to be 2.42 microM and 26.6 pmol/min/mg in the oxidation of DM-221 and 2.48 microM and 30.2 pmol/min/mg in the oxidation of DM-222. The intrinsic clearance (V(max)/K(m)) of the C-C bond cleavage reactions was essentially the same with either DM-221 or DM-222 as substrate. These oxidative reactions were significantly inhibited by quinidine, a selective inhibitor of CYP2D subfamilies, indicating the metabolic C-C bond cleavage of the octyl side chain of olanexidine to likely be mediated via the CYP2D subfamily in dog liver microsomes. This aliphatic C-C bond cleavage by cytochrome P450s may play an important role in the metabolism of other drugs or endogenous compounds possessing aliphatic chains.

Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase localizes to the centrosomes and chromosomes

Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) takes part mainly in regulation of DNA repair, thereby maintaining genomic stability in the nucleus. However, what role PARP plays in mitotic cells is not known. Centrosomes play an important role in maintaining the fidelity of chromosome distribution during cell division. Loss of these functions might cause chromosomal instability and aneuploidy. p53 and BRCA1 were recently found to localize to the centrosome at mitosis. We found that PARP is localized to the centrosomes and the chromosomes at cell-division phase and interphase by indirect immunofluorescence. Furthermore, by analysis of isolated centrosomes PARP protein was found to associate with the centrosomes during mitosis. These data suggest that PARP may be involved in maintenance of chromosomal stability.

Regulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) by bone resorptive factors in osteoblastic cells

In addition to their stimulating function on osteoclastic bone resorption, bone resorptive factors may regulate proteinases and related factors in osteoblastic cells to degrade bone matrix proteins. This study investigated the regulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) by bone resorptive factors in the cultures of mouse osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells, mouse primary osteoblastic (POB) cells, and neonatal mouse calvariae. Expression of either MMP-2, -3, -9, -11, -13, and -14 or TIMP-1, -2, and -3 was detected in MC3T3-E1 cells and POB cells. When the bone resorptive factors parathyroid hormone, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3), prostaglandin E(2), interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) were added to the cell cultures, MMP-13 mRNA levels were found predominantly to increase by all resorptive factors in the three cultures. mRNA levels of either MMP-3 and -9 or TIMP-1 and -3 were found to increase mainly by the cytokines IL-1beta and TNF-alpha. BB94, a nonselective MMP inhibitor, neutralized the (45)Ca release stimulated by these resorptive factors to an extent similar to that of calcitonin, strongly suggesting that bone resorptive factors function at least partly through MMP formation. We propose that MMP-13 mRNA expression in osteoblastic cells may play an important role in stimulating matrix degradation by both systemic and local resorptive factors, whereas either MMP-3 and -9 or TIMP-1 and -3 might modulate matrix degradation by local cytokines only.

Antibacterial effect of silver-zeolite on oral bacteria under anaerobic conditions

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial effect of silver-zeolite (SZ) against oral bacteria under anaerobic conditions.

METHODS

The antibacterial activity of SZ was evaluated by determining the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) using two-fold serial dilutions of SZ in Brain Heart Infusion broth. Release of Ag+ into the broth was measured by an atomic absorption technique.

RESULTS

SZ inhibited the growth of the bacteria tested under anaerobic conditions. The MIC of SZ ranged between 256 and 2048 micrograms/ml, which corresponded to a range of 4.8-38.4 micrograms/ml of Ag+. All strains grew in broth containing 16,384 micrograms/ml of type-A zeolite.

SIGNIFICANCE

These results suggested that SZ may be a useful vehicle to provide antibacterial activity to dental materials used even under anaerobic conditions such as deep in the periodontal pocket.

Vitamin E inhibits cell proliferation and the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase during the promotion phase of lung tumorigenesis irrespective of antioxidative effect

We have already reported that the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk) is critical in the stimulation of cell proliferation during the promotion stage of urethane-induced lung tumorigenesis in mice. Also, we have found that vitamin E suppresses lung tumorigenesis by inhibiting cell proliferation at the promotion stage. However, it is still unclear whether this inhibitory effect at the promotion stage is based on the antioxidative effect of vitamin E or not. In order to address this question, we examined the inhibitory effect of alpha-tocopheryloxybutyric acid (TSE), an ether derivative of vitamin E that cannot act as an antioxidant in vivo, on cell proliferation and the activation of Erk during promotion of lung tumorigenesis. On day 30 after urethane injection (750 mg/kg, i. p.) in A/J mice, TSE or vitamin E at 100 micromol/kg, p.o. was administered. Twenty-four hours after the final administration, the mice were killed to analyze cell proliferation and related parameters. The labeling index of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (a marker of cell proliferation) and ornithine decarboxylase activity (a marker of the promotion stage in lungs) were attenuated by treatment with TSE or vitamin E. TSE or vitamin E treatment also inhibited urethane-induced activation of Erk and suppressed the activation of other essential members of the Erk cascade (Ras, Raf and Mek). These results suggest that vitamin E inhibits cell proliferation and activation of the Erk cascade during promotion of urethane-induced lung tumorigenesis in mice, independent of its antioxidative effect.

Chlorination of harman and norharman with sodium hypochlorite and co-mutagenicity of the chlorinated products

Harman and norharman are widely distributed in the environment and consequently contaminate in domestic waste-water. It has been reported that they have co-mutagenic activity in the presence of non- mutagenic aromatic amines such as aniline and o-toluidine with S9 mix. When these beta-carbolines were treated with sodium hypochiorite under mild conditions, chlorinated derivatives were produced. Among them, 6-chloroharman and 6-chloronorharman showed much more potent co-mutagenic activities than harman and norharman in the presence of o-toluidine toward Salmonella typhimurium TA98 with S9 mix. These results suggest that the chlorination of harman and norharman occurs during disinfection at the sewage plant to produce potent co-mutagens that contaminate river water.

Twelve-fold quasicrystal and its approximant of Ta62Te38 interpreted as modulated crystals

A transmission electron microscopy study reveals that the twelve-fold quasicrystal and its approximant in Ta62Te38 are crystals subjected to the structure modulation. It is composed of two modulated layers rotated by 30 degrees (or 90 degrees) to each other about their normal. Structures of the twelve-fold quasicrystal and its approximant can be related by modulation waves with the same directions but with slightly different wavelengths. The modulation is considered to be due to the rearrangement of atomic vacancies as a response to the occurrence of charge density waves.

Age-related alterations of nitric oxide production in the brains of seizure-susceptible EL mice

We evaluated age-related changes in nitric oxide (NO) production in the brains of EL mice, a strain highly susceptible to seizures. A group of EL(s) mice were tossed up weekly to induce convulsive seizures, while in a nonstimulated EL(ns) group induction of convulsive seizures was avoided. Brain levels of nitrite plus nitrate (NOx) in EL(ns) mice were significantly higher than in nonstimulated mice at 10 days, and also higher than levels at 15 and 50 weeks in either EL(s) or EL(ns) mice. A significantly higher number of NO-producing cells were demonstrated in the hippocampus and parietal cortex by staining for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)-diaphorase in EL(s) mice at the ages of 15 and 50 weeks than in EL(ns) mice at the age of 6 weeks. In EL(ns) mice, significantly fewer neurons showed NADPH-diaphorase staining in the hippocampus, striatum and parietal cortex at the age of 50 weeks than at 6 weeks. The present results suggest that whole-brain NOx levels in EL(ns) and EL(s) mice and numbers of NADPH-diaphorase-positive neurons in EL(ns) mice decreased with aging, while increasing of numbers of such neurons in EL(s) mice were assumed to develop in compensation for reduction in whole-brain NOx levels.

Liver-infiltrating CD56 positive T lymphocytes in hepatitis C virus infection

AIM

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of post-transfusional and sporadic hepatitis, and leads to chronic liver disease. It has been suggested that virus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes are responsible for liver injuries that occur in HCV-infected patients. However, the detailed characteristics of these lymphocytes have not yet been defined. We have previously reported that CD56+ T lymphocytes, as intermediates between natural killer cell and T lymphocytes, predominantly infiltrated the liver and were increased in patients with chronic hepatitis related to HCV (CH-C).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We obtained peripheral blood and liver tissues from 32 patients diagnosed as having CH-C, and 10 other liver disease patients (5 chronic hepatitis related to HBV, 5 alcoholics), and analyzed peripheral blood and liver-infiltrating lymphocytes using flow cytometric and immunohistochemical techniques.

RESULTS

The CD56+ T lymphocyte ratio in the liver of patients with a high histology activity index (HAI) score for chronic hepatitis was higher than that of patients with a low HAI score and patients with other liver diseases. In addition, T lymphocytes from patients with chronic hepatitis with a high HAI score carried mostly gamma delta-TCR. There was a correlation between the ratio of CH-C and serum alanine aminotransferase, category I (periportal inflammation and necrosis), and IV (fibrosis) of the HAI scoring system. The ratio was highest in zone 1 of the hepatic lobules.

CONCLUSION

The correlation between CD56+ T lymphocyte ratios and hepatocellular damage was examined. These findings suggest strongly that liver-infiltrating CD56+ T lymphocytes play an important pathologic role in hepatocellular injury in CH-C.

Detection of intracellular interleukin-2 production in peripheral T lymphocytes by flow cytometry in patients with pancreatobiliary malignancies

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

To date, it has been reported that cellular immunity is decreased in patients with cancer and investigations into cytokine production has been insufficient. Therefore, we examined intracellular cytokine production by using flow cytometry in patients with cancer and discussed the reasons for the impairment of their immune system.

METHODS

Eleven patients with hepatobiliary malignancies (68.5+/-11.8 years of age), eight age-matched controls (70.0+/-12.0 years of age) and 10 young volunteers (31.9+/-3.1 years of age) were used in the present study. Stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells from these patients were stained with fluorescence-labeled anticytokine monoclonal antibodies and analyzed with a Fluorescence activated cell sorter (FAC)Scan.

RESULTS

The percentage of positively stained T cells was calculated and compared with controls. Repeated measured ANOVA was used for statistical analysis. Interleukin (IL)-2 production was significantly decreased in patients with cancer compared to controls (P=0.0122), and it may suggest decreased cellular immune activity of the patients. Simultaneously, spontaneous intracellular IL-4 production was observed in patients and age-matched controls, but levels were significantly increased when compared with the young volunteers (P=0.0052, P=0.031, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

It was of interest that spontaneous intracellular IL-4 production was detected in elderly subjects.

Effects of combined administration of zonisamide and valproic acid or phenytoin to nitric oxide production, monoamines and zonisamide concentrations in the brain of seizure-susceptible EL mice

This study was undertaken to elucidate the anticonvulsive effects of zonisamide (ZNS: 25, 50, and 75 mg/kg, intraperitoneal [i.p.]), which was coadministered with valproic acid (VPA: 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, i.p.), or phenytoin (PHT: 10, 25, and 50 mg/kg, i.p.) to ZNS concentration, nitric oxide metabolites (NOx levels), and monoamines in the brain of the EL mouse, a strain highly susceptible to seizures. NOx levels were obtained from measuring of combined level of nitrite plus nitrate. Coadministration of ZNS with VPA or PHT suppressed convulsive seizures more effectively than with treatment of ZNS alone. Both serum and brain concentrations of ZNS tended to increase as the dose of VPA or PHT was increased. While coadministrations of ZNS (75 mg/kg) and VPA or PHT at any dose did not change brain and serum NOx levels, those altered brain monoamine contents. These results suggested that anticonvulsive effect of coadministrations of ZNS and VPA or PHT were caused by changes of monoamines rather than changes of NO metabolites.