Genetic diversity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from foreign-born and Japan-born residents in Tokyo

Sequences of the full genomes of 259 clinical isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, obtained from foreign-born and Japan-born patients in Tokyo, Japan, were determined, and a phylogenetic tree constructed by concatenated single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) sequences. The 259 isolates were clustered into four clades: Lineage 2 (East Asian or "Beijing" genotype; n = 182, 70.3%), Lineage 4 (Euro-American, n = 46, 17.8%), Lineage 1 (Indo-Oceanic, n = 23, 8.9%), and Lineage 3 (East African-Indian, n = 8, 3.1%). Of the 259, 36 (13.9%) were resistant to at least one drug. There was no multi-drug-resistant isolate. Drug resistance was greater for the strains in Lineage 2 than the non-Lineage 2. The proportion of Lineage 2 isolates was significantly smaller in foreign-born (n = 43/91, 47.3%) than in Japan-born (n = 139/168, 82.7%) patients, whereas the proportion of Lineage 1 isolates was significantly larger in foreign-born (n = 19/91, 20.9%) than in Japan-born (n = 4/168, 2.4%) patients. We also found eight SNPs specific to the typical Beijing sub-genotype in Lineage 2, including 4 non-synonymous SNPs. Of the 259 isolates, 244 had strain-specific SNP(s) and small (1-30-bp) insertions and deletions (indels). The numbers of strain-specific SNPs and indels per isolate were significantly larger from foreign-born (median 89, range 0-520) than from Japan-born (median 23, range 0-415) (p 3.66E-15) patients. These results suggested that M. tuberculosis isolates from foreign-born patients had more genetic diversity than those from Japan-born patients.

[New criteria enable shorter hospitalization of patients with continuously smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis]

BACKGROUND

Sputum conversion defined as 3 consecutive smear-negative sputum samples collected on different days is one of standard requirements for discontinuation of isolation for patients with smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis (SPpTB). Sputum smear conversion is usually seen prior to culture conversion. However, in some patients, sputum smear tests are continuously positive for a long time. To discontinue isolation of the patients, culture conversion is required instead of smear conversion. Culture testing requires a long incubation period, which results in longer patient stay and isolation.

OBJECTIVES

To identify a more efficient definition of culture conversion, which will enable treating physicians to take the decision to discontinue isolation.

METHODS

The charts of patients with SPpTB admitted from September 2007 to March 2011 were reviewed. The recent definition of culture conversion is 3 subsequent culture-negative sputum specimens incubated for 6 weeks (3 CNs for 6 weeks) in liquid media. Treatment days and admission days were calculated based on the application of the new 3 definitions (3 CNs for 4 weeks, 2 CNs for 6 weeks, 2 CNs for 4 weeks).

RESULTS

Of 301 patients, 224 were discharged after smear conversion; 77 were continuously smear-positive and were discharged after culture conversion. The median hospital stay was 56 days in patients discharged due to smear conversion and 107 days in patients discharged due to culture conversion, based on the recent definition. The numbers of treatment days needed for culture conversion were identical in most patients, regardless of definitions. At the time of reporting, all patients conformed to the new definitions and all the patients' sputum specimens were 3 CNs for 6 weeks except for one patient happened to be with 2 consecutive smear-negative specimens at an early phase of chemotherapy. The most efficient definition of culture conversion in this study was 2 CNs for 4 weeks. This enabled to shorten each patient's stay by 31 days and to lessen each patient's cost of hospitalization by about 4,900 dollars.

CONCLUSION

Two subsequent CNs for 4 weeks of smear-positive sputum samples is enough to enable discontinuation of patient isolation and may thus shorten hospital stay.

Nuclear export of the influenza virus ribonucleoprotein complex: Interaction of Hsc70 with viral proteins M1 and NS2

The influenza virus replicates in the host cell nucleus, and the progeny viral ribonucleoprotein complex (vRNP) is exported to the cytoplasm prior to maturation. NS2 has a nuclear export signal that mediates the nuclear export of vRNP by the vRNP-M1-NS2 complex. We previously reported that the heat shock cognate 70 (Hsc70) protein binds to M1 protein and mediates vRNP export. However, the interactions among M1, NS2, and Hsc70 are poorly understood. In the present study, we demonstrate that Hsc70 interacts with M1 more strongly than with NS2 and competes with NS2 for M1 binding, suggesting an important role of Hsc70 in the nuclear export of vRNP.

[Tenosynovitis confirmed by MRI during anti-tuberculous treatment suspected due to isoniazid--2 case reports and literature review]

The adverse effects of anti-tuberculosis agents is an important problem for treatment of tuberculosis. We report 2 possible cases of isoniazid-induced tenosynovitis. Case 1: A 49-year-old man with untreated diabetic mellitus presented with hypesthesia and difficulty grasping with his right hand 1 month after starting treatment of tuberculosis of the lung and pleuritis using isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide. His symptoms were due to tenosynovitis, which was detected by magnetic resonance imaging. The clinical course and isoniazid challenge test revealed that the condition was related to isoniazid. After discontinuing isoniazid treatment, his symptoms gradually improved. Case 2: An 78-year-old man operated on for rectal cancer 3 weeks previously presented with edema and arthralgia of both hands 1 month after starting anti-tuberculosis treatment. His tuberculosis was diagnosed at preoperative screening tests for rectal cancer. Owing to a medical history of gout, pyrazinamide was discontinued. However, his symptoms did not improve. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed findings indicative of tenosynovitis. At the end of anti-tuberculosis treatment, his symptoms improved slightly within 6 months. Isoniazid-induced tenosynovitis and arthritis are rare adverse effects. However, they may be underestimated because the severity is variable. We suggest further investigations of the side effects of isoniazid using imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging.

Multiplex polymerase chain reaction for detection of Campylobacter from stool specimen

This was a study to prospectively evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to identify Campylobacter. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based on cadF, hipO & asp gene for Campylobacter genus, C. jejuni & C. coli were tested for detection of Campylobacter jejuni & C. coli in naturally infected faecal samples of human. All the samples were subjected to the cultural isolation of organism and biochemical characterization. The samples resulted in the amplification of a DNA fragment of size 400 bp, 500 bp &735 bp in PCR assay. Two hundred faecal samples comprising diarrheal stools, 23(11.5%) could be detected by isolation whereas 24(12.0%) were found positive by PCR. All culture positive cases were positive by PCR and among 01 culture negative case, were positive by PCR. PCR was found to be more sensitive for Campylobacter detection in faecal samples 12.0% as relative to culture isolation which could detect the organism in 11.5% samples. Sensitivity and specificity of PCR were 100% and 99.4% respectively taking Culture as gold standard. The results depicted the superior efficacy of PCR for rapid screening of samples owing to its high sensitivity, specificity and automation potential.

Emergence of Klebsiella pneumoniae clinical isolates producing KPC-2 carbapenemase in Cuba

The emergence of Klebsiella pneumoniae producing carbapenemase (KPC) has now become a global concern. As a part of a nationwide multicentre surveillance study in Cuba, three K. pneumoniae clinical isolates resistant to carbapenems were detected for a 1-month period (September to October 2011). PCR and sequence analysis revealed that the three strains harboured bla KPC-2. They showed resistance or intermediate susceptibility to expanded-spectrum cephalosporins, other β-lactams, a β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor combination, and gentamicin. Two strains were susceptible only to colistin, whereas the other strain showing colistin resistance was susceptible to fluoroquinolones. These bla KPC -2-positive K. pneumoniae strains were classified into ST1271 (CC29), a novel clone harbouring bla KPC -2, and were revealed to be genetically identical by PCR-based DNA fingerprinting. The three patients infected with the KPC-producing K. pneumoniae had common risk factors, and had no overseas travel experience outside Cuba, suggesting local acquisition of the resistant pathogen. This is the first report of a KPC-producing K. pneumoniae in Cuba. Although detection of KPC in Enterobacteriaceae is still rare in Cuba, our finding indicated that KPC-producing bacteria are a global concern and highlighted the need to identify these microorganisms in clinical laboratories.

Observation of a p-wave one-neutron halo configuration in (37)Mg

Cross sections of 1n-removal reactions from the neutron-rich nucleus (37)Mg on C and Pb targets and the parallel momentum distributions of the (37)Mg residues from the C target have been measured at 240  MeV/nucleon. A combined analysis of these distinct nuclear- and Coulomb-dominated reaction data shows that the (37)Mg ground state has a small 1n separation energy of 0.22(-0.09)(+0.12)  MeV and an appreciable p-wave neutron single-particle strength. These results confirm that (37)Mg lies near the edge of the "island of inversion" and has a sizable p-wave neutron halo component, the heaviest such system identified to date.

Characterization of ASKP1240, a fully human antibody targeting human CD40 with potent immunosuppressive effects

Blocking the CD40-CD154 interaction is reported to be effective for transplantation management and autoimmune disease models in rodents and nonhuman primates. However, clinical trials with anti-CD154 mAbs were halted because of high incidence of thromboembolic complications. Thus, we generated and characterized a fully human anti-CD40 mAb ASKP1240, as an alternative to anti-CD154 mAb. In vitro ASKP1240 concentration-dependently inhibited human peripheral blood mononuclear cell proliferation induced by soluble CD154. In addition, ASKP1240 did not destabilize platelet thrombi under physiological high shear conditions while mouse anti-human CD154 mAb (mu5C8) did. And ASKP1240 itself did not activate platelet and endothelial cells. In vivo administration of ASKP1240 (1 or 10 mg/kg, intravenously) to cynomolgus monkeys, weekly for 3 weeks, significantly attenuated both delayed-type hypersensitivity and specific antibody formation evoked by tetanus toxoid. The immunosuppressive effect was well correlated with the CD40 receptor saturation. Thus, these results suggest that ASKP1240 is immunosuppressive but not prothromboembolic, and as such appears to be a promising therapeutic candidate for the management of solid organ transplant rejection and autoimmune diseases therapy.

Anti-influenza viral effects of honey in vitro: potent high activity of manuka honey

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Influenza viruses are a serious threat to human health and cause thousands of deaths annually. Thus, there is an urgent requirement for the development of novel anti-influenza virus drugs. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-influenza viral activity of honey from various sources.

METHODS

Antiviral activities of honey samples were evaluated using MDCK cells. To elucidate the possible mechanism of action of honey, plaque inhibition assays were used. Synergistic effects of honey with known anti-influenza virus drugs such as zanamivir or oseltamivir were tested.

RESULTS

Manuka honey efficiently inhibited influenza virus replication (IC50 = 3.6 ± 1.2 mg/mL; CC50 = 82.3 ± 2.2 mg/mL; selective index = 22.9), which is related to its virucidal effects. In the presence of 3.13 mg/mL manuka honey, the IC50 of zanamivir or oseltamivir was reduced to nearly 1/1000th of their single use.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed that honey, in general, and particularly manuka honey, has potent inhibitory activity against the influenza virus, demonstrating a potential medicinal value.

Deformation-driven p-wave halos at the drip line: 31Ne

The halo structure of 31Ne is studied using 1n-removal reactions on C and Pb targets at 230  MeV/nucleon. A combined analysis of the cross sections of these nuclear and Coulomb dominated reactions that feed directly the 30Ne ground-state reveals 31Ne to have a small neutron separation energy, 0.15(-0.10)(+0.16)  MeV, and spin-parity 3/2-. Consistency of the data with reaction and large-scale shell-model calculations identifies 31Ne as deformed and having a significant p-wave halo component, suggesting that halos are more frequent occurrences at the neutron drip line.

DNA from pre-erythrocytic stage malaria parasites is detectable by PCR in the faeces and blood of hosts

Following the bite of an infective mosquito, malaria parasites first invade the liver where they develop and replicate for a number of days before being released into the bloodstream where they invade red blood cells and cause disease. The biology of the liver stages of malaria parasites is relatively poorly understood due to the inaccessibility of the parasites to sampling during this phase of their life cycle. Here we report the detection in blood and faecal samples of malaria parasite DNA throughout their development in the livers of mice and before the parasites begin their growth in the blood circulation. It is shown that parasite DNA derived from pre-erythrocytic stage parasites reaches the faeces via the bile. We then show that different primate malaria species can be detected by PCR in blood and faecal samples from naturally infected captive macaque monkeys. These results demonstrate that pre-erythrocytic parasites can be detected and quantified in experimentally infected animals. Furthermore, these results have important implications for both molecular epidemiology and phylogenetics of malaria parasites. In the former case, individuals who are malaria parasite negative by microscopy, but PCR positive for parasite DNA in their blood, are considered to be "sub-microscopic" blood stage parasite carriers. We now propose that PCR positivity is not necessarily an indicator of the presence of blood stage parasites, as the DNA could derive from pre-erythrocytic parasites. Similarly, in the case of molecular phylogenetics based on DNA sequences alone, we argue that DNA amplified from blood or faeces does not necessarily come from a parasite species that infects the red blood cells of that particular host.

Probing commensurate ground states of Josephson vortex in layered superconductors

Because of the commensurability condition between the vortex lattice constant determined by external magnetic field and the nano-scale layered structure, interlayer Josephson vortices (JVs) in high-Tc cuprate superconductors can take various configurations. We have simulated with Langevin scheme the in-plane flux-flow dynamics of JVs subject to point-like pinning centers. Oscillation in resistivity is found with the applied magnetic field, where the resistivity peaks occur around commensurate JV configurations. We have also measured the resistivity experimentally using single crystals of underdoped YBa2Cu3Oy with the anisotropy parameter gamma approximately equal to 50. A unique JV lattice has been detected for the first time.

Natural course of dissecting vertebrobasilar artery aneurysms without stroke

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The natural history and therapeutic management of dissecting vertebrobasilar aneurysms without ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke (nonstroke dissecting vertebrobasilar aneurysms) are not well-established. We conservatively followed patients with nonstroke dissecting vertebrobasilar aneurysms and evaluated the factors related to clinical and morphologic deterioration.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred thirteen patients were enrolled and divided by clinical presentation at diagnosis: asymptomatic (group 1, n = 52), pain only (group 2, n = 56), and mass effect (group 3, n = 5). Patients were conservatively managed without intervention and antithrombotic therapy. Clinical outcomes and morphologic changes were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 113 patients who were diagnosed with nonstroke dissecting vertebrobasilar aneurysm had a mean follow-up of 2.9 years (range, 27 days to 8 years). Throughout that period, 1 patient in group 1 (1.9%) and 1 patient in group 2 (1.8%) showed clinical deterioration due to mass effect, and 1 patient in group 3 (20%) developed ischemic stroke followed by subarachnoid hemorrhage. Most patients (97.3%) were clinically unchanged. Three patients who had clinical deterioration showed aneurysm enlargement (P < .001). Aneurysms remained morphologically unchanged in 91 patients (80.5%). Aneurysm enlargement was seen in 5 patients (4.4%); risk of enlargement was significantly associated with either maximum diameter (hazard ratio = 1.30; 95% CI, 1.11-11.52; P = .001) or aneurysm ≥10 mm (hazard ratio = 18.0; 95% CI, 1.95-167; P = .011).

CONCLUSIONS

The natural course of these lesions suggests that acute intervention is not always required and close follow-up without antithrombotic therapy is reasonable. Patients with symptoms due to mass effect or aneurysms of >10 mm may require treatment.

Simple and rapid human papillomavirus genotyping method by restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis with two restriction enzymes

Cervical cancer, the third most common cancer that affects women worldwide, is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and is treatable when detected at an early stage. To date, more than 100 different HPV types have been described, and the development of simple, low-cost, and accurate methods to distinguish HPV genotypes is highly warranted. In this study, an HPV genotyping assay based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was evaluated. This method involved the use of MY09/11 primers followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis with the restriction enzymes HpyCH4V and NlaIII. Cervical specimens preserved using CytoRich Blue fluid were collected from 1,134 female volunteers for HPV detection, and 1,111 valid samples were amplified using PCR. The PCR method was sensitive enough to detect 25 copies of HPV18, and three copies of HPV16. Out of 202 PCR-positive samples, HPV genotypes were determined in 189 samples (93.6%) by this RFLP method. Results were then evaluated further by capillary sequencing method. Concordant results between the two tests were as high as 96.0%. Thirteen samples, which tested negative with RFLP, were verified as non-specific amplifications with PCR. In conclusion, this PCR-RFLP method using restriction enzymes HpyCH4V and NlaIII is simple, non-labor intensive, and is applicable for the inexpensive determination of HPV genotypes in clinical samples.

Anti-influenza A virus activity of a new dihydrochalcone diglycoside isolated from the Egyptian seagrass Thalassodendron ciliatum (Forsk.) den Hartog

One new dihydrochalcone diglycoside has been isolated from the EtOAc fraction of the Egyptian seagrass Thalassodendrin ciliatum (Forsk.) den Hartog, and was identified as 6'-O-rhamnosyl-(1‴ → 6″)-glucopyranosyl asebogenin for which a trivial name Thalassodendrone was established. Furthermore, five known phenolics were isolated and identified as asebotin, quercetin 3,7-diglucoside, protocatechuic acid, ferulic acid and p-hydroxybenzoic acid. The structures of all the isolated compounds were established based on 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy and high-resolution-mass spectrometer. High-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectra (HR-ESI-MS) were obtained using a JEOL JMS-T100TD spectrometer (JEOL Ltd., Tokyo, Japan). The anti-influenza A virus activity of the isolated new compound and asebotin was evaluated, and the obtained results revealed that the inhibition dose concentration of asebotin was more than that of Thalassodendrone with IC50 = 2.00 and 1.96 μg/mL, respectively, and with cytotoxic concentration (CC50) of 3.36 and 3.14 μg/mL, respectively.

Clinical characteristics of streptococcus pneumoniae meningoencephalitis after transsphenoidal surgery: three case reports

We report three extremely rare cases of Streptococcus pneumoniae meningoencephalitis (SPM) after transsphenoidal surgery (TSS). Between 2004 and 2010, we experienced three cases of severe SPM after surgery out of 1,965 patients undergoing TSS (0.15%). The three cases included a 4-year-old boy with a large cystic craniopharyngioma, a 40-year-old man with a non-functioning pituitary adenoma, and a 55-year-old man with acromegaly. The similarity among these SPM patients was that severe clinical events occurred suddenly 1–2 months postoperatively without any history of sinusitis or pneumonia. Despite intensive care these patients notably had residual neurological sequelae. In no case was rhinorrhea associated with SPM. It should be noted that SPM was not detected from bacterial cultures of the sphenoidal sinus mucous membranes (BCSM) obtained during TSS in two of the patients examined. Severe postoperative SPM can occur suddenly without cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage within 2 months after surgery and requires emergency treatment. Reduced resistance to infection may play a role in the occurrence of SPM in our three patients. Our study indicates that BCSM is not useful for predicting postoperative meningitis.

Two-hour post-load plasma glucose levels are associated with carotid intima-media thickness in subjects with normal glucose tolerance

AIMS

Elevated post-load plasma glucose levels may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, even when they are within the normoglycaemic range. We examined the association of carotid artery intima-media thickness, a marker of early atherosclerosis, with glycaemic variables, including post-load plasma glucose levels, in Japanese subjects with normal glucose tolerance.

METHODS

The study participants were 663 Japanese subjects with normal glucose tolerance (565 men, mean age 47 ± 9 years) who underwent both a 75-g oral glucose tolerance test and carotid artery intima-media thickness measurement by B-mode ultrasonography during a health examination. Associations between maximal common carotid artery intima-media thickness and fasting plasma glucose, 1-h and 2-h plasma glucose during an oral glucose tolerance test, and HbA1c were examined.

RESULTS

The carotid artery intima-media thickness gradually increased across the tertiles of 1-h plasma glucose, 2-h plasma glucose and HbA1c . In multiple linear regression analysis, 2-h plasma glucose (β = 0.09, P = 0.012), as well as age, male gender, hypertension, dyslipidaemia, and current smoking were independent determinants of carotid artery intima-media thickness. In contrast, other glycaemic variables were not independent determinants of carotid artery intima-media thickness. The carotid artery intima-media thickness in hypertensive subjects with the highest tertile of 2-h plasma glucose [0.70 (95% CI 0.64-0.76) mm] was significantly greater than in normotensive subjects, with the lowest tertile of 2-h plasma glucose [0.60 (95% CI 0.58-0.63) mm, P = 0.037], even after adjusting for the multiple potential confounders.

CONCLUSIONS

The 2-h plasma glucose during an oral glucose tolerance test was positively and independently associated with carotid artery intima-media thickness in Japanese subjects with normal glucose tolerance. In particular, the combination of elevated 2-h plasma glucose and hypertension may contribute to an increased carotid artery intima-media thickness.

Abstract P4-01-19: Enhanced sensitivity to detect metastases of breast cancer to the lung and monitor response to inhibition of metastasis by IGF1R inhibitor using SWIFT MRI

Breast cancers metastasize to the bone, lung, brain and liver and mortality from breast cancer is due to metastases. Drugs that inhibit metastasis in particular of triple negative (TN) breast cancers, more sensitive methods to image metastases and imaging biomarkers to monitor response to these drugs at sites of metastasis are needed to reduce mortality. The type I insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF1R) regulates metastasis and drugs targeting IGF1R and or insulin receptor inhibit metastasis of TN breast cancer cells in mouse models. The initial clinical trials of these drugs have not been very successful and point to the need to develop imaging biomarkers for this therapy. While MRI is a powerful tool for detecting and imaging cancer, its utility in imaging metastasis to the lung is limited due to the challenges of lung MRI with conventional 3D gradient echo (GRE). MRI does not visualize lung well, mainly due to the abundance of air-tissue interfaces, which cause the MR signal to decay too rapidly for conventional MRI pulse sequences to capture. Clinically lung metastases are monitored by CT or PET but exposure of patients to ionizing radiation is a concern and problematic in longitudinal studies monitoring response to a targeted drug. Further MRI can also be useful in measuring metabolite levels using MR spectroscopy (MRS). Therefore, we evaluated the capability of a novel MR sequence called sweep imaging with Fourier transformation (SWIFT), where the data is acquired concurrently with the radiofrequency pulse, to detect breast cancer metastases to lung and test if inhibition of metastases by an IGF1R targeted drug can be monitored by SWIFT. We used the tail vein injection model of breast cancer metastasis with MDA-MB-231-LM2, a lung-seeking metastatic TN breast cancer cell line. Lung metastases were monitored with bioluminescence imaging (BLI) and MRI every week. MRI was done with two pulse sequences: SWIFT (with a short echo time or TE∼3 μs) and GRE (with a longer TE = 2.2 ms). SWIFT showed significantly higher sensitivity in detecting signals from lung parenchyma compared to GRE and structural information was visible in the area of the lungs. Metastatic tumor growth in the lung induced a progressive increase in signal from the lung parenchyma in SWIFT images. MIP images from SWIFT clearly visualized the lung vascular structures and their disruption due to progression of breast cancer metastasis. To test if SWIFT can also be useful in monitoring inhibition of metastases, mice injected with cells were treated with either vehicle or an IGF1R inhibitor (huEM164) twice a week. When inhibition of metastases in the huEM164 treated group compared to the vehicle group was evident by BLI, MR images were acquired. SWIFT was sensitive in detecting the inhibition of metastases by the IGF1R antibody. Our data show that high sensitivity to fast-decaying signals and tolerance to the magnetic susceptibility in SWIFT enhance the capability to detect signal and structural changes in the lung parenchyma and vasculature due to metastasis of breast cancer. Further, SWIFT was also sensitive to monitor inhibition of metastasis in response to IGF1R targeted drugs.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2013;73(24 Suppl): Abstract nr P4-01-19.

In-beam γ-ray spectroscopy of ^34,36,38Mg: merging the N=20 and N=28 shell quenching

Neutron-rich N=22, 24, 26 magnesium isotopes were studied via in-beam γ-ray spectroscopy at the RIKEN Radioactive Isotope Beam Factory following secondary fragmentation reactions on a carbon target at ≈200 MeV/nucleon. In the one- and two-proton removal channels from 39Al and 40Si beams, two distinct γ-ray transitions were observed in 38Mg, while in the one-proton removal reaction from 37Al a new transition was observed in addition to the known 2(1)(+)→0(g.s.)(+) decay. From the experimental systematics and comparison to theoretical predictions it is concluded that the transitions belong to the 2(1)(+)→0(g.s.)(+) and 4(1)(+)→2(1)(+) decays in 36Mg and 38Mg, respectively. For 34Mg, previously reported 2(1)(+) and 4(1)(+) level energies were remeasured. The deduced E(4(1)(+))/E(2(1)(+)) ratios for 34,36,38Mg of 3.14(5), 3.07(5), and 3.07(5) are almost identical and suggest the emergence of a large area of deformation extending from the N=20 to the N=28 shell quenching.

Plasma BDNF levels are correlated with aggressiveness in patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer disease

In the present study, we examined whether neuropsychiatric symptoms were correlated with plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels as a state marker or were associated with the BDNF polymorphism Val66Met in patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (A-MCI) or Alzheimer disease (AD). One hundred and seventy-six outpatients with AD (n = 129) or A-MCI (n = 47) were selected and their plasma BDNF concentrations measured. Next, we investigated the correlation between the plasma BDNF level and the Behavioral Pathology in Alzheimer Disease (Behave-AD) subscale scores, which reflect neuropsychiatric symptoms. We also compared the plasma BDNF level and the Behave-AD subscale scores among the BDNF Val66Met genotypic groups. Among the seven Behave-AD subscale scores, aggressiveness was positively correlated with the plasma BDNF level (ρ = 0.237, P < 0.005), but did not differ significantly among the three BDNF Val66Met genotypic groups. The Behave-AD total and other subscale scores did not differ significantly among the BDNF Val66Met genotypic groups and were not associated with the plasma BDNF level. Moreover, the plasma BDNF level did not differ significantly among the three BDNF Val66Met genotypic groups or between patients with A-MCI and those with AD. The plasma BDNF level was robustly correlated with aggressiveness, implying that the plasma BDNF level might be useful as a behavioral state marker in patients with AD or A-MCI.

Construction of chromosome markers from the Lake Victoria cichlid Paralabidochromis chilotes and their application to comparative mapping

Cichlid fishes in the African Great Lakes are known as a spectacular example of adaptive radiation in vertebrates. Four linkage maps have been constructed to identify the genes responsible for adaptation and speciation, and the genetic linkages of those genes are assumed to play an important role during adaptive evolution. However, it is difficult to analyze such linkages because the linkage groups of one species do not match well with those of the other species. Chromosome markers are a powerful tool for the direct identification of linkage homology between different species. We used information about the linkage map of the Lake Malawi cichlid (Labeotropheus fuelleborni/Metriaclima zebra) to isolate bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) clones from the BAC library of Paralabidochromis chilotes, Lake Victoria. We identified 18 of 22 P. chilotes chromosomes by single- and multi-color BAC fluorescence in situ hybridization using 19 BAC clones. Comparative mapping with the chromosome markers of P. chilotes in Astatotilapia burtoni (2n = 40) from Lake Tanganyika revealed the chromosome rearrangements that have occurred in this lineage. These chromosome markers will be useful for delineating the process of genome and chromosome evolution in African species.

Development of a new measurement system to detect selectively volatile organic compounds derived from the human body

A new concept expired gas measurement system used double cold-trap method was developed. The system could detect selectively volatile organic compound (VOC) derived from the human body. The gas chromatography (GC) profiles of healthy volunteer's expired gas collected by our system were analyzed. As a result, 60 VOCs were detected from the healthy volunteer's expired gas. We examined 14 VOCs among them further, which could be converted to the concentration from the GC profiles. The concentration of almost VOCs decreased when the subjects inspired purified air compared with the atmosphere. On the other hand, isoprene was almost the same. It was strongly suggested that these VOCs were derived from the human body because the concentration of these VOCs in the atmosphere were nearly zero. Expired gas of two sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) patients were analyzed as preliminary study. As a result of the study, the concentration of some VOCs contained in the expired gas of the SAS patients showed higher value than a healthy controls.

Anti-influenza activity of Alchemilla mollis extract: possible virucidal activity against influenza virus particles

Influenza virus infection is a major public health problem that leads to significant morbidity and mortality. The emergence of resistance to the currently available anti-influenza agents has necessitated the development of new drugs with novel targets. Studying known ethno-medicinal plants is a promising approach for the discovery of new antiviral compounds. Alchemilla mollis is used in traditional medicine in Europe for different indications, including minimizing the symptoms of a sore throat. In this study, we found that A. mollis extract has anti-influenza activity, and investigated the mechanism underlying its inhibition of influenza virus replication. Plaque assays demonstrated that treatment of cells with A. mollis extract prior to infection did not inhibit influenza virus infection. However, plaque formation was markedly reduced when infected cells were overlaid with an agarose gel containing A. mollis extract. In addition, exposure of the virus to A. mollis extract prior to infection and treatment of cells during virus infection significantly suppressed plaque formation. Influenza virus-induced hemagglutination of chicken red blood cells was inhibited by A. mollis extract treatment. The inhibitory effect was observed against influenza A virus subtypes H1N1, H3N2, and H5N2. These findings suggest that A. mollis extract has virucidal or neutralizing activity against influenza virus particles. Furthermore, inhibitory effect of zanamivir synergistically increased after combination with A. mollis extract. Our results suggest that A. mollis extract has the potential to be developed as an antiinfluenza agent.

Prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of ESBL producing isolates

Extended spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) are produced by Gram negative bacteria showing resistance to new generations of antimicrobial agents. This study was undertaken to characterize ESBL producing bacteria from 222 urinary isolates. Antimicrobial resistance was screened by disc diffusion test. The ESBL status was confirmed by double disc diffusion test (DDDT) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) by agar dilution method by standard procedure. The study revealed the following distribution of ESBL producing isolates: Klebsiella spp (81.6%), Proteus spp (78.1%) E. coli (72.3%) and Pseudomonas spp (66.7%). All the isolates were sensitive to imipenem and nitrofurantoin followed by amikacin 92.9%. A relatively higher rate of resistance to gentamicin, co-trimoxazole, azithromycin and quinolones were also observed for ESBL producers. The study suggested routine detection of ESBL and avoidance of irrational use of third generation cephalosporins to reduce the emergence of multidrug resistance bacteria following an antibiotic policy.

Effect of lifestyle on asthma control in Japanese patients: importance of periodical exercise and raw vegetable diet

Background

The avoidance of inhaled allergens or tobacco smoke has been known to have favorable effects on asthma control. However, it remains unclear whether other lifestyle-related factors are also related to asthma control. Therefore, a comprehensive study to examine the associations between various lifestyle factors and asthma control was conducted in Japanese asthmatic patients.

Methods

The study subjects included 437 stable asthmatic patients recruited from our outpatient clinic over a one-year period. A written, informed consent was obtained from each participant. Asthma control was assessed using the asthma control test (ACT), and a structured questionnaire was administered to obtain information regarding lifestyle factors, including tobacco smoking, alcohol drinking, physical exercise, and diet. Both bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted.

Results

The proportions of total control (ACT = 25), well controlled (ACT = 20-24), and poorly controlled (ACT < 20) were 27.5%, 48.1%, and 24.5%, respectively. The proportions of patients in the asthma treatment steps as measured by Global Initiative for Asthma 2007 in step 1, step 2, step 3, step 4, and step 5 were 5.5%, 17.4%, 7.6%, 60.2%, and 9.4%, respectively. Body mass index, direct tobacco smoking status and alcohol drinking were not associated with asthma control. On the other hand, younger age (< 65 years old), passive smoking, periodical exercise (> 3 metabolic equivalents-h/week), and raw vegetable intake (> 5 units/week) were significantly associated with good asthma control by bivariate analysis. Younger age, periodical exercise, and raw vegetable intake were significantly associated with good asthma control by multiple linear regression analysis.

Conclusions

Periodical exercise and raw vegetable intake are associated with good asthma control in Japanese patients.

Association between neurotrophin-3 polymorphisms and executive function in Japanese patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment and mild Alzheimer disease

BACKGROUND

We investigated whether neurotrophin (NT)-3 polymorphisms influenced the executive function of patients with 2 separate disease stages with similar dementia conditions: amnestic mild cognitive impairment (A-MCI) or mild Alzheimer disease (AD).

METHODS

Among 215 outpatients with dementia and MCI, 155 with mild AD (n = 108) or A-MCI (n = 47) were recruited and divided into three genotypic groups based on the representative NT-3 functional polymorphisms rs6332 and rs6489630. Next, we compared the frontal assessment battery (FAB) total and subtest scores between the three genotypic groups.

RESULTS

The total FAB score was not significantly associated with the rs6332 and rs6489630 genotypes; however, the conflicting instructions score among the 6 subtests was significantly associated with the rs6332 genotype (p < 0.05). Moreover, in patients with mild AD, the conflicting instructions score differed significantly among the three genotypic groups of rs6332 (p < 0.05) (G/G < A/A: p = 0.042 and G/A < A/A: p = 0.041). No significant differences in any other demographic variables were observed among the three genotypes of rs6332 and rs6489630.

CONCLUSION

These results suggested that an NT-3 polymorphism, rs6332, may significantly influence executive function, reflecting interference performances among patients with mild-stage AD.

Biochemical features of a catalytic antibody light chain, 22F6, prepared from human lymphocytes

Human antibody light chains belonging to subgroup II of germ line genes were amplified by a seminested PCR technique using B-lymphocytes taken from a human adult infected with influenza virus. Each gene of the human light chains was transferred into the Escherichia coli system. The recovered light chain was highly purified using a two-step purification system. Light chain 22F6 showed interesting catalytic features. The light chain cleaved a peptide bond of synthetic peptidyl-4-methyl-coumaryl-7-amide (MCA) substrates, such as QAR-MCA and EAR-MCA, indicating amidase activity. It also hydrolyzed a phosphodiester bond of both DNA and RNA. From the analysis of amino acid sequences and molecular modeling, the 22F6 light chain possesses two kinds of active sites as amidase and nuclease in close distances. The 22F6 catalytic light chain could suppress the infection of influenza virus type A (H1N1) of Madin-Darby canine kidney cells in an in vitro assay. In addition, the catalytic light chain clearly inhibited the infection of the influenza virus of BALB/c mice via nasal administration in an in vivo assay. In the experiment, the titer in the serum of the mice coinfected with the 22F6 light chain and H1N1 virus became considerably lowered compared with that of 22F6-non-coinfected mice. Note that the catalytic light chain was prepared from human peripheral lymphocyte and plays an important role in preventing infection by influenza virus. Considering the fact that the human light chain did not show any acute toxicity for mice, our procedure developed in this study must be unique and noteworthy for developing new drugs.