Antibodies against native proteins of Mycobacterium tuberculosis can detect pulmonary tuberculosis patients

Accurate point-of-care testing (POCT) is critical for managing tuberculosis (TB). However, current antibody-based diagnosis shows low specificity and sensitivity. To find proper antigen candidates for TB diagnosis by antibodies, we assessed IgGs responsiveness to Mycobacterium tuberculosis proteins in pulmonary TB (PTB) patients. We employed major secreted proteins, such as Rv1860, Ag85C, PstS1, Rv2878c, Ag85B, and Rv1926c that were directly purified from M. tuberculosis. In the first screening, we found that IgG levels were significantly elevated in PTB patients only against Rv1860, PstS1, and Ag85B among tested antigens. However, recombinant PstS1 and Ag85B from Escherichia coli (E. coli) couldn't distinguish PTB patients and healthy controls (HC). Recombinant Rv1860 was not checked due to its little expression. Then, the 59 confirmed PTB patients from Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia, and 102 HC were tested to Rv1860 and Ag85B only due to the low yield of the PstS1 from M. tuberculosis. The ROC analysis using native Ag85B and Rv1860 showed an acceptable area under curve for diagnosis, which is 0.812 (95% CI 0.734-0.890, p < 0.0001) and 0.821 (95% CI 0.752-0.890, p < 0.0001). This study indicates that taking consideration of native protein structure is key in developing TB's POCT by antibody-based diagnosis.

Porter-Thomas fluctuations in complex quantum systems

The Gaussian orthogonal ensemble (GOE) of random matrices has been widely employed to describe diverse phenomena in strongly coupled quantum systems. In particular, it has often been invoked to explain the fluctuations in decay rates that follow the χ-squared distribution for one degree of freedom, as originally proposed by Brink and by Porter and Thomas. However, we find that the coupling to the decay channels can change the effective number of degrees of freedom from one to two. Our conclusions are based on a configuration-interaction Hamiltonian originally constructed to test the validity of transition-state theory, also known as the Rice-Ramsperger-Kassel-Marcus theory in chemistry. The internal Hamiltonian consists of two sets of GOE reservoirs connected by an internal channel. We find that the effective number of degrees of freedom depends on the control parameter ρΓ, where ρ is the level density in the first reservoir and Γ is the level decay width. The distribution for two degrees of freedom is a well-known property of the Gaussian unitary ensemble (GUE); our model demonstrates that the GUE fluctuations can be present under much milder conditions. Our treatment of the model permits an analytic derivation for ρΓ≳1.

Halo Structure of the Neutron-Dripline Nucleus ^{19}B

The heaviest bound isotope of boron ^{19}B has been investigated using exclusive measurements of its Coulomb dissociation, into ^{17}B and two neutrons, in collisions with Pb at 220  MeV/nucleon. Enhanced electric dipole (E1) strength is observed just above the two-neutron decay threshold with an integrated E1 strength of B(E1)=1.64±0.06(stat)±0.12(sys)  e^{2} fm^{2} for relative energies below 6 MeV. This feature, known as a soft E1 excitation, provides the first firm evidence that ^{19}B has a prominent two-neutron halo. Three-body calculations that reproduce the energy spectrum indicate that the valence neutrons have a significant s-wave configuration and exhibit a dineutronlike correlation.

Study of Quasielastic Barrier Distributions as a Step towards the Synthesis of Superheavy Elements with Hot Fusion Reactions

The excitation functions for quasielastic scattering of ^{22}Ne+^{248}Cm, ^{26}Mg+^{248}Cm, and ^{48}Ca+^{238}U are measured using a gas-filled recoil ion separator. The quasielastic barrier distributions are extracted for these systems and are compared with coupled-channel calculations. The results indicate that the barrier distribution is affected dominantly by deformation of the actinide target nuclei, but also by vibrational or rotational excitations of the projectile nuclei, as well as neutron transfer processes before capture. From a comparison between the experimental barrier distributions and the evaporation residue cross sections for Sg (Z=106), Hs (108), Cn (112), and Lv (116), it is suggested that the hot fusion reactions take advantage of a compact collision, where the projectile approaches along the short axis of a prolately deformed nucleus. A new method is proposed to estimate the optimum incident energy to synthesize unknown superheavy nuclei using the barrier distribution.

Exploring fusion at extreme sub-barrier energies with weakly bound nuclei

Results of measurement of residues formed in fusion of (6)Li with (198)Pt in the energy range of 0.68 < E/V(b) < 1.3 using a new sensitive off-beam technique are reported. The fusion excitation function and the derived average angular momenta do not indicate a change of slope at deep sub-barrier energies, contrary to recent observations. The present results for a system with weakly bound projectile confront the current understanding of the fusion hindrance at these low energies, underlying the role of internal reorganization on the dynamical path towards fusion.

Coexistence of BCS- and BEC-like pair structures in halo nuclei

We investigate the spatial structure of the two-neutron wave function in the Borromean nucleus (11)Li, using a three-body model of (9)Li + n + n, which includes many-body correlations stemming from the Pauli principle. The behavior of the neutron pair at different densities is simulated by calculating the two-neutron wave function at several distances between the core nucleus (9)Li and the center of mass of the two neutrons. With this representation, a strong concentration of the neutron pair on the nuclear surface is for the first time quantitatively established for neutron-rich nuclei. That is, the neutron pair wave function in (11)Li has an oscillatory behavior at normal density, while it becomes a well-localized single peak in the dilute density region around the nuclear surface. We point out that these features qualitatively correspond to the BCS- and BEC-like structures of the pair wave function found in infinite nuclear matter.

Fine structure in proton emission from 145Tm discovered with digital signal processing

Fine structure in proton emission from the 3.1(3) mus activity of 145Tm was discovered by using a novel technique of digital processing of overlapping recoil implantation and decay signals. Proton transitions to the ground state of 144Er and to its first excited 2(+) state at 0.33(1) MeV with a branching ratio I(p)(2(+))=9.6+/-1.5% were observed. The structure of the 145Tm wave function and the emission process were analyzed by using particle-core vibration coupling models.

Fusion suppression and sub-barrier breakup of weakly bound nuclei

The mechanism for the large suppression of complete fusion in the 9Be+208Pb reaction has been investigated through measurement of sub-barrier breakup of 9Be. Excluding breakup through the 8Be ground state, whose lifetime is too long, a prompt breakup component remains, having sufficient probability to explain the observed suppression of complete fusion. This appears to be associated with interactions at the nuclear surface. The fusion suppression is predicted to be almost proportional to the charge of the target nucleus, making it most significant in reactions with heavy nuclei.

[A case of collecting duct carcinoma (Bellini duct carcinoma) producing carcinoembryonic antigen]

We report a case of collecting duct carcinoma (Bellini duct carcinoma) producing carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). A 61-year-old man visited our hospital because of a left renal mass detected by ultrasonography in an other hospital. Computed tomography showed a low density tumor measuring about 3 cm in the left kidney. Angiography demonstrated a hypovascular tumor. The serum level of CEA was increased to 20 ng/ml. (normal < 7 ng/ml). Left radical nephrectomy was performed. Histological examination revealed collecting duct carcinoma with papillary growth (T1aN1M0). Cancer cells showed a positive immunohistochemical staining for CEA. Under a diagnosis of CEA-producing collecting duct carcinoma of the left kidney, the patient underwent systemic chemotherapy (M-VAC). The serum level of CEA decreased to the normal level after the nephrectomy, but six months postoperatively, metastatic bone tumor at the left pelvic bone was revealed on the plain film and at the same time, the CEA level was increased again.

[Clinical efficacy of MRCP for diagnosis of patients with pancreatic neoplasm]

We examined the usefulness of MRCP in pancreatic cancer compared with ERCP. Moreover, it examined in the same way in focal pancreatitis, too. We compare three findings of 1) main pancreatic duct, 2) branches of the stricture part, 3) side of tail main pancreatic duct about ERCP and MRCP. As for the branches of the stricture part, MRCP was poor compared with ERCP but as for the property of the side of the tail main pancreatic duct, MRCP excelled. The study of mass forming chronic pancreatitis was a similar result and was not the one, which excels ERCP in case of qualitative diagnosis. However, we thought that it was not invasively, suitable behind the digestive operation and digestive passage fault, in case of elapse observation and moreover that MRCP is suitable for pick up the pancreatic cancer in our clinic.

[Clinical study on antimicrobial prophylaxis following extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy]

One hundred and sixty one patients with upper urinary stones were examined for antimicrobial prophylaxis following extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). They were divided into two groups, the low-risk group (n = 133) and high-risk group (n = 28), according to the risk factors of urinary tract infection. The patients in the low-risk group were further randomized into two groups which were orally given ofloxacin for 7 days after ESWL (Group A, n = 66), no antimicrobial (Group B, n = 67). The patients in the high-risk group were randomly subdivided into three groups which were given flomoxef intravenously for 2 or 3 days and ofloxacin for 4 or 5 days thereafter (Group C, n = 10), flomoxef only for 2 or 3 days and no drugs later (Group D, n = 10), ofloxacin for 7 days (Group E, n = 8). In all of the patients in the low-risk group, during the 7 days after ESWL, fever elevation was observed in only 1.5% of patients, and bacteriuria in 10.0% on the 7th day. There was no difference in frequency of fever elevation and bacteriuria following ESWL between Group A and Group B. These findings indicate that prophylactic antimicrobial after ESWL treatment is not necessary for low risk patients with urinary tract infections. In the high-risk group, the over-all rates of fever elevation and bacteriuria were 21.4% and 24.0% respectively. The difference of effectiveness among the prophylactic regimens of the three groups (Group C, D, E) was not shown.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Malignant lymphoma of the urethra: report of a case with detection of Epstein-Barr virus genome in the tumour cells

We report a primary non-Hodgkin's B-cell lymphoma of the urethra in a 78-year-old female. Serum antibodies for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) were negative, but there was a 40-fold increase in antibodies to EBV-associated nuclear antigen. Using PCR and in situ hybridization techniques, EBV genome was found in the tumour cell nuclei.

[A clinical review of 19 patients with pheochromocytoma]

Nineteen cases of pheochromocytoma were experienced at our department between 1979 and 1990. Nine patients were males and 10 females with an average of 42.4 years old. In 18 patients the tumor was located in the adrenal gland (9 in right, 5 in left and 4 in bilateral adrenal gland), while in one patient whose original tumor had been resected 15 years earlier, the tumor had recurred in the extra-adrenal gland and was surgically extirpated revealing a malignant pheochromocytoma by histological examination. Hypertension was seen in 16 patients; 14 had paroxysmal and 2 had sustained hypertension. In 3 patients, hypertension was not observed. Familial pheochromocytoma was seen in 5 patients. Three patients had Sipple syndrome. Computed tomographic scan and magnetic resonance imaging were very useful techniques in preoperatively localizing the tumor. Even in the cases treated with alpha- or beta-blocker agents preoperatively, significant hypotension was observed immediately after resection of the tumor and treatment with norepinephrine or rapid blood transfusion or both was needed. Although meticulous care with alpha- and beta-blockers is important, surgical treatment of pheochromocytoma should spare the surgeon of unnecessary anxiety.

[Effect of XKJ-001, a crude drug preparation, on body water distribution and water excretion in mice]

The effect of XKJ-001, a crude drug preparation based on Seisho-ekki-to, was investigated on the hematocrit, plasma volume, extracellular and interstitial fluid volumes as well as water excretion in mice. Mice were housed in an animal room maintained at 34 degrees C for 3 d with water and food freely available. While the hematocrit, extracellular and interstitial fluid volumes increased, the plasma volume decreased. These results suggest that the distribution of body water in mice housed at high environmental temperature exhibit the state of water metabolism disorders (Suitai) described in Kampo medicine. After the administration of XKJ-001 (3 g/kg, once a day) for 5 d, mice were housed in an animal room maintained at 34 degrees C for 3 d. The administration of XKJ-001 was allowed to continue on the day 0, day 1 and day 2. XKJ-001 inhibited the increase in hematocrit and the changes in body water distribution of mice induced by high environmental temperature. An effect of XKJ-001 on water excretion in mice was investigated in comparison with hydrochlorothiazide (HTZ). Distilled water (D.W., 100 ml/kg) or bicarbonate saline (B.S., 100 ml/kg) was intraperitoneally injected immediately after the oral administration of XKJ-001 (1.5 g/kg) or HTZ (15 mg/kg). The water excretion was enhanced after 3 h for XKJ-001 and after 6 h for HTZ after the intraperitoneal injection of D.W. As for the intraperitoneal injection of BS, HTZ enhanced the water excretion, however, XKJ-001 exhibited no effect. These results suggest that XKJ-001 has activities on water maldistribution and facilitates the water excretion.

Effects of N-(2-ethylhexyl)-3-hydroxybutyramide hydrogen succinate on the metabolisms of monoamines in the rat brain

N-(2-Ethylhexyl)-3-hydroxybutyramide hydrogen succinate (M-2H) has been reported to increase REM sleep. The effects of M-2H on the metabolisms of monoamines which have been implicated in the regulation of the sleep-wakefulness cycle were studied in rats. M-2H (500 mg/kg p.o.) increased the levels of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), homovanillic acid and 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylethyleneglycol sulfate in various regions of the rat brain. However, no appreciable changes occurred in levels of serotonin (5-HT), norepinephrine, dopamine, or 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid. The effect of M-2H (500 mg/kg p.o.) on 5-HT metabolism was investigated with intraventricularly-injected [14C]-5-HT. Although [14C]-5-HT level was not significantly changed, [14C]-5-HIAA level was above control level in four brain regions such as the hypothalamus, hippocampus, midbrain and pons-medulla at 3 h after the administration of M-2H. M-2H retarded the efflux of intraventricularly-injected [14C]-5-HIAA in all brain regions except the cortex. These results suggest that M-2H preferentially impaired the transport system for acid metabolites of monoamines, resulting in increase of monoamine metabolite levels in the brain.

Habituation failure of skin conductance response after intraventricular administration of 6-hydroxydopamine in cats

The effects of intraventricular administration of 6-hydroxydopamine on electrodermal activity were studied in cats. The treatment slowed down or eliminated habituation of the skin conductance response to repeated auditory stimuli. However, the impairment of habituation was not accompanied by an increase in the rate of spontaneous skin conductance fluctuation.

Chemostructural requirement for centrally acting muscle relaxant effect of magnolol and honokiol, neolignane derivatives

Effects of some diphenyl and monophenyl compounds on grip strength in mice and spinal reflexes in young chicks were investigated in order to study structure-activity relationships between muscle relaxant activity and neolignane compounds, magnolol and honokiol extracted from Magnolia officinalis THUNB. Diphenyl produced a long-lasting suppression in the spinal reflex and relatively weak inhibition in the grip strength. An introduction of a hydroxyl into 2-position of diphenyl, o-phenylphenol, increased the muscle relaxant activity and accelerated the onset, although the duration was still long. In the spinal reflex preparation the duration of action became short. The introduction of two hydroxyls into 2- and 2'-position of diphenyl, 2,2'-dihydroxydiphenyl, further strengthened the activity and shortened the duration of the inhibitory effect on the grip strength and the spinal reflex. When two allyls are introduced into 5,5'-position of 2,2'-dihydroxydiphenyl, it corresponds to magnolol. Magnolol, 5,5'-diallyl-2,2'-dihydroxydiphenyl, produced potent inhibitory effects of gradual onset and of long duration on the two test preparations. Position of allyls and hydroxyls in honokiol, 5,3'-diallyl-2,4'-dihydroxydiphenyl, is different from magnolol, although the pharmacological characteristics are quite similar to magnolol. These results suggest that a hydroxyl accelerates the onset and shortens the muscle relaxant activity of diphenyl and an allyl influences the activity in the opposite direction. Both radicals appear to intensify the activity.

[Application of an automatic blood cell analyzer "MICROX" to the blood of experimental animals. I. Differential counts of white blood cells in monkeys and dogs]

Automatic blood cell analyzer "MICROX" was examined for possible applicability to the differential count of white blood cell in the monkey and in the dog. Spun blood smear slides prepared from 42 monkeys and 60 dogs were stained with Wright's dye and totals of 4971 white blood cells of the monkey and 7189 cells of the dog were counted, respectively. The identification rate of MICROX was checked by the cell by cell counting method on a monitor TV of the instrument. Analysis of the data was made to examine correlationship between the results of MICROX and of optical microscopy on the same slides. 1) Identification rates and misclassification rates were 97.0% and 3.0% respectively in monkeys and 96.4% and 3.6% in dogs. 2) A high degree of correlation was observed between the results by MICROX and by optical microscopy in respect of segmented neutrophils and lymphocytes. 3) There were an average of 15.5 cells counted as unknown cells in monkey blood and 16.5 in dog blood per 100 cells, respectively. Of the unknown cells about 40 to 50% were closely disposed leukocytes within the same counting squares and almost all of atypical lymphocytes and erythroblasts were also counted as unknown cells on the analyzer. The data support the feasibility of the use of MICROX for the differential count of white blood cells of normal monkeys and dogs.

Comparative blood values of Macaca mulatta and Macaca fascicularis

Hematological and clinical biochemistry values of two species of monkeys (Macaca mulatta and Macaca fascicularis) were measured by using auto-analyzers. WBC and RBC counts of M. fascicularis were high and Hb, MCV, MCH and MCHC values of M. fascicularis were low in comparison with those of M. mulatta. Albumin and creatinine levels of M. fascicularis were lower than those of M. mulatta. Total protein and A1P values of female M. fascicularis were higher than those of female M. mulatta. Differences between the sexes were observed in MCV, inorganic phosphorus, total protein, albumin and creatinine in M. mulatta, whereas in M. fascicularis, such differences were demonostrated as to creatinine, phospholipids and triglycerides.

The involvement of catecholamine in scopolamine-induced locomotor activation and rotational behaviour in mice

Scopolamine-induced locomotor activation was studied in comparison with the responses to apomorphine and methamphetamine in mice. The responses to scopolamine and methamphetamine were markedly depressed by the pretreatment with the catecholamine synthesis inhibitor, alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine, while the activation response to apomorphine was not affected. p-Chlorophenylalanine did not affect the response to scopolamine. Phenoxybenzamine reduced the responses to scopolamine and methamphetamine, but did not affect the apomorphine response. Propranolol did not affect the responses to the three agonists, scopolamine, apomorphine and methamphetamine. Antipsychotic drugs haloperidol and pimozide reduced the responses to the three agonists. Haloperidol was especially effective in this regard. These results suggest the involvement of catecholamine in the locomotor activation produced by scopolamine. In the rotational behaviour model which is sensitive to dopamine receptor stimulating agents, effects of the three agonists were studied. Scopolamine produced the ipsilateral rotation in mice with unilateral striatal 6-hydroxydopamine-induced lesions. Methamphetamine induced the ipsilateral rotation, while apomorphine produced the contralateral rotation. The rotations induced by three agaonists were suppressed by pimozide. The results indicate the participation of dopamine in the scopolamine-induced rotational behaviour in mice.