Adverse Events Associated With Infusion of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Products: A Prospective and Multicenter Surveillance Study

Adverse events (AEs) associated with blood transfusions, including component-specific red cell, platelet, and plasma products, have been extensively surveyed. In contrast, surveillance of AEs associated with hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) products in HSC transplantation (HSCT) has been less rigorous, even though HSC products include a diversity of immature and mature hematopoietic cells, substantial plasma, and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in the case of cryopreserved HSC products. HSC infusion-related AEs have been attributed to DMSO toxicity, but AEs associated with the infusion of noncryopreserved HSC products are not uncommon. To quantify the frequencies, types, and risk factors of HSC infusion-related AEs, we implemented national surveillance for AEs observed within 24 hours after infusion. Herein we report on 1125 HSCTs, including 570 peripheral blood stem cell transplantations (PBSCTs) (290 autologous [auto-] and 280 allogeneic [allo-]), 332 allo-bone marrow transplantations (allo-BMTs) and 223 allo-cord blood transplantations (allo-CBTs). Unexpectedly, incidences of grade ≥ 2 AEs were most frequent in allo-BMTs (37.7%) with no DMSO in any product compared with auto-/allo-PBSCTs (20.9%, P < .001) and allo-CBTs (19.3%, P < .001) typically cryopreserved with DMSO. Hypertension was most often noted in BMTs, whereas nausea/vomiting, fever, and allergic reactions were most frequent in allo-PBSCTs. In a multivariate analysis, a history of transfusion reactions was a risk factor for overall AEs in all HSCTs (odds ratio [OR] = 1.459, P = .045). For grade ≥ 2 AEs in allo-HSCTs, a history of transfusion reactions (OR = 1.551, P = .044) for overall AEs, and high infusion volume (OR = 7.544, P = .005) and allo-PBSCTs (versus BMTs, OR = 9.948, P = .002) for allergic reactions were identified as risk factors. These findings suggest that some factors unrelated to DMSO, such as allo-antigens, contribute to HSC infusion-related AEs. As severe AEs, a total of 117 grade ≥ 3 AEs were reported in 1125 HSCTs, including life-threatening complications in 3 (0.3%) HSCTs: 1 allo-CBT (anaphylaxis) and 2 allo-PBSCTs (hypoxia, kidney injury) with cryopreserved product. Our data show that HSC infusion risks vary by product, can be severe, and should be monitored with the same rigor as modern transfusion hemovigilance programs.

Clinical features and treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease across the Asia Pacific region-the GO ASIA initiative

BACKGROUND

The Gut and Obesity Asia (GO ASIA) workgroup was formed to study the relationships between obesity and gastrointestinal diseases in the Asia Pacific region.

AIM

To study factors associated with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and advanced fibrosis, and medical treatment of biopsy-proven nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients.

METHODS

Retrospective study of biopsy-proven NAFLD patients from centres in the GO ASIA Workgroup. Independent factors associated with NASH and with advanced fibrosis on binary logistic regression analyses in a training cohort were used for the development of their corresponding risk score, which were validated in a validation cohort.

RESULTS

We included 1008 patients from nine centres across eight countries (NASH 62.9%, advanced fibrosis 17.2%). Independent predictors of NASH were body mass index ≥30 kg/m² , diabetes mellitus, dyslipidaemia, alanine aminotransferase ≥88 U/L and aspartate aminotransferase ≥38 U/L, constituting the Asia Pacific NASH risk score. A high score has a positive predictive value of 80%-83% for NASH. Independent predictors of advanced fibrosis were age ≥55 years, diabetes mellitus and platelet count <150 × 10⁹ /L, constituting the Asia-Pacific NAFLD advanced fibrosis risk score. A low score has a negative predictive value of 95%-96% for advanced fibrosis. Only 1.7% of patients were referred for structured lifestyle program, 4.2% were on vitamin E, and 2.4% were on pioglitazone.

CONCLUSIONS

More severe liver disease can be suspected or ruled out based on factors identified in this study. Utilisation of structured lifestyle program, vitamin E and pioglitazone was limited despite this being a cohort of biopsy-proven NAFLD patients with majority of patients having NASH.

Clinical significance of granule-containing myeloma cells in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma

The clinical features and prognostic significance of myeloma cells containing granules remain unclear. The purpose of this retrospective study was to investigate the clinical significance of granule-containing myeloma cells in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). We retrospectively analyzed the records of 122 patients diagnosed with NDMM between January 2007 and December 2013. Granule-containing myeloma cells were defined as myeloma cells that exhibited three or more granules in their cytoplasm by May-Giemsa staining. The patients were classified into two groups, the granule-containing myeloma (GM) and nongranule-containing myeloma (non-GM) groups, depending on the proportion of myeloma cells that contained granules (cut-off value: 10%). There were 25 (20.5%) patients in the GM group. Patients in the GM group displayed significantly higher CD56 and CD49e expression than those in the non-GM group (t-test, P = 0.027 and 0.042). None of the patient characteristics differed significantly between the two groups. There was no significant difference in the chemotherapy profiles of the two groups, and the overall response rates of the two groups were similar. During the median follow-up period of 33.9 months, the overall survival (OS) in the GM group was similar to that in the non-GM group; 4-year OS of the GM and non-GM groups were 78.5% and 51.9%, respectively (P = 0.126). We concluded that cases of NDMM involving granule-containing myeloma cells are not infrequent. Moreover, CD56 and CD49e expression was significantly higher in the presence of myeloma cell populations, and the presence of granules did not affect survival.

Results of a national survey on laparoscopic bariatric surgery in Japan, 2000-2009

INTRODUCTION

In Japan, laparoscopic bariatric surgery has not been popular until recently because morbidly obese patients were infrequently encountered previous and Japanese health insurance does not cover this type of surgery. In 2010, the Japan Research Society for Endoscopic and Laparoscopic Treatments of Obesity undertook the first nationwide survey on laparoscopic bariatric surgery to evaluate its current status and outcomes.

METHODS

A mail survey was sent to the society's 64 member institutions, which included almost all institutions in Japan actively performing laparoscopic gastrointestinal surgery.

RESULTS

From 2000 to 2009, 340 laparoscopic bariatric procedures, in total, were performed in nine of the 64 institutions (14%). The most popular procedure was laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB, n=147), second was laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG, n=102), and third was laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB, n=55). However, the number of LRYGB procedures has decreased while the number of LSG procedures has rapidly increased. Total morbidity rates were 12.2% for LRYGB, 10.9% for LAGB, and 7.8% for LSG. Percent excess weight loss was 78% at 5 years after LRYGB, 52% at 4 years after LAGB, and 68% at 2 years after LSG. Although the bariatric procedures frequently resolved or improved obesity-related comorbidities, LRYGB appears to be superior to LAGB, as was previously reported.

CONCLUSION

The first nationwide survey of laparoscopic bariatric surgery in Japan clearly showed the current status and outcomes of this group of procedures. The Japanese results appear to be comparable to similarly undertaken surveys in Europe and the USA.

[Aortic and mitral valve replacement for calcified valvular annulus in a dialysis patient; report of a case]

A 77-year-old man on hemodialysis was admitted to our hospital due to heart failure. Echocardiography showed aortic valve stenosis and regurgitation, mitral valve stenosis and regurgitaion, and tricuspid valve regurgitation. Catheter examination revealed severe calcification at aortic valve and mitral valve including their annulus. At the operation, the calcifications of the aortic and mitral valvular annulus was removed using a cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator (CUSA). Reconstructions of the defect of the posterior part of the mitral annulus and of the aortic annulus at the site of the left coronary cusp were achieved by patch technique using autologous pericardium. Aortic and mitral valve replacement and tricuspid valve annuloplasty were performed. The postoperative course was uneventful. Operative technique to remove calcification from valvular annulus using CUSA and reconstruct of the defect of the annulus with autologous pericardium is a very useful technique to prevent left ventricular rupture, perivalvular leakage and any other complications.

A groundbreaking new suturing device: the Excalibur

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic knot tying can be stressful. We reported two simple techniques, known as the Thumbs up! knot and the Tornado knot. We have further refined these procedures with the development of a new needle holder, called the Excalibur suturing needle holder.

MATERIALS

This forceps differ from most conventional forceps in that the hinge is designed to stick out. The large hinge is stored out of the way when the forceps are closed, to prevent the thread accidentally catching.

RESULTS

The thread is hooked on the projected hinge, which resembles the heel of a high-heel shoe. By using this forceps, the laparoscopic knot tying becomes easier for not only well experienced but also less experienced surgeons.

CONCLUSIONS

The Excalibur, with its high heel, can complete knots with simple straight-line motion, making knot tying easier. This forceps will help reduce the stresses associated with intra-corporeal knot tying.

Persistent fifth aortic arch and fourth arch interruption in a 28-year-old woman

A 28-year-old woman having persistent fifth aortic arch and aortic coarctation associated with the fourth arch interruption, without other cardiac malformation, underwent graft interposition, 20 mm in diameter, between the fourth arch including the left subclavian artery and the descending aorta.

Video-assisted bullectomy using needlescopic instruments for spontaneous pneumothorax

Patients with spontaneous pneumothorax require immediate insertion of a chest drain to evacuate the intrathoracic air. During video-assisted bullectomy, we made use of an existing chest drain hole to insert a thoracoscope or an endoscopic linear stapler. Video-assisted bullectomy was performed through three ports-two 2-mm ports and the existing chest drain hole. Therefore, no new skin incisions were required for the insertion of the 2-mm ports. A chest drain was again inserted via the existing chest drain hole after bullectomy. This procedure was used on 8 of 10 patients with spontaneous pneumothorax. There were no postoperative complications or recurrences. Thoracoscopic bullectomy using needlescopic instruments is technically feasible, safe, and effective. Currently, the procedure is indicated only for simple cases and not for the lysis of adhesions.

Laparoscopic resection of the pancreas and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic pancreatic surgery still is not a common procedure worldwide. Postoperative complications such as a pancreatic leakage cause a serious condition. We report our consecutive laparoscopic pancreatic resections of islet cell tumors or benign diseases and their outcomes.

METHOD

Laparoscopic pancreatic resections were attempted in three patients. Preoperative diagnoses were insulinoma in two patients and cystadenoma in one patient. The lesions were located in the pancreas body in two patients and the pancreas tail in one patient. Their sizes ranged from 1 to 6 cm in diameter (mean, 3 cm).

RESULTS

We performed distal pancreatectomy using an endoscopic linear stapler with conservation of the spleen in two patients and enucleation in one patient. Of the distal pancreatectomies, the splenic artery and vein were preserved in one patient, whereas in the other they were divided. There were no perioperative complications in any of the cases. The mean postoperative hospital stay was 10 days (range, 7-14 days). There were no episodes of hypoglycemia or recurrence during the mean follow-up period of 25 months (range, 11-36 months).

CONCLUSIONS

Although laparoscopic pancreatic resection of selected patients is a feasible and safe procedure in the hands of experienced laparoscopic surgeons, patients must be carefully observed after surgery to avoid serious conditions by pancreatic fistula.

Intensified daunorubicin in induction therapy and autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation in postremission therapy (Double-7 protocol) for adult acute myeloid leukemia

To investigate whether an intensified dose of daunorubicin (DNR) in induction therapy and autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (PBSCT) in the postremission period are effective treatments, we used a Double-7 protocol to treat adult patients with de novo acute myeloid leukemia (excluding M0 and M3). Induction therapy consisted of 40 mg/m2 of DNR intravenous drip infusion for 7 days and 200 mg/m2 of ara-C by continuous infusion for 7 days (7 + 7 DC regimen). Patients who achieved complete remission (CR) were given high-dose chemotherapy with autologous PBSCT in postremission therapy. Of the 22 assessable patients, 16 attained CR (73%). Disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) at 3 years were 61.2% and 48.1%, respectively. Nine of the CR patients underwent PBSCT without therapy-related mortality. Patients in a favorable cytogenetic group (n = 7) attained 100% CR and long-term survival (71.4% DFS and 85.7% OS at 3 years). Thus, intensified DNR administration of 280 mg/m2 (40 mg/m2 per day for 7 days) in induction therapy for adult patients younger than 60 years of age might be optimal or at least comparable with the new anthracyclines such as idarubicin. In addition, autologous PBSCT in postremission therapy might improve DFS and OS, at least for patients in a favorable cytogenetic group, such as those with a t(8;21) abnormality.

[Intravascular large B cell lymphoma with migratory local high density shadow by chest CT and diagnosed by transbronchial lung biopsy]

The intravascular large B cell lymphoma (IVL) is a rare subtype characterized by the presence of lymphoma cells in the lumina of small vessels. Reported here is the case of a 68-year-old woman with a high-grade fever uncontrolled by antibiotics or antipyretic drugs, and elevation of the serum LDH and sIL-2R levels. After she was admitted, dyspnea, hypoxia, and severe body weight gain with leg edema gradually developed. Chest computed tomography (CT) revealed a characteristic migratory local high density area typical of atelectasis. A diagnosis of IVL was made with a transbronchial lung biopsy (TBLB) and immunohistochemical analysis. The patient was treated with combination chemotherapy (modified CHOP), and her symptoms of dyspnea, hypoxia, pyrexia and leg edema were quickly resolved. The level of LDH and sIL-2R returned to normal, and a complete response was obtained. Although diagnosis of IVL is difficult, an early and appropriate diagnostic procedure (biopsy of tissue with vessels, such as lung and skin, is required) will improve the prognosis of IVL.

Severe aplastic anemia associated with chronic natural killer cell lymphocytosis

Chronic natural killer (NK) lymphocytosis involves a persistent increase in CD56+ large granular lymphocytes (LGLs) that is sometimes associated with immune-mediated complications, such as anemia and neutropenia. However, aplastic anemia (AA) is a rare complication. Here we describe 2 patients with severe AA who presented with persistent increases in NK cells. Their LGLs were positive for CD56, CD16, and intracellular interferon (IFN)-gamma but negative for CD3, Fas-ligand, and T-cell receptor rearrangement, findings that are compatible with NK cells. Not only the number of NK cells, but NK activity as well, was increased in both patients. The number of NK cells changed according to hematologic recovery and relapse in 1 case. Thus, there seemed to be a close relationship between NK cells and the progression of AA, at least in this instance. Further investigation of the clinical course of similar cases and the characteristics of NK cells is necessary.

Thirteen-week dietary intake of rapeseed oil or soybean oil as the only dietary fat in Wistar Kyoto rats-change in blood pressure

Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats were fed a diet containing 10% rapeseed (canola) oil or soybean oil as the only dietary fat for 13 weeks. From week 5 of feeding, systolic blood pressure of the canola oil group became higher than that of the soybean oil group. The 13-week canola oil intake increased plasma levels of Na(+) and lipids, and decreased the level of K(+) compared to those in the soybean oil group. The canola oil group also showed a high density of neutrophils and a low density of platelets compared to the soybean oil group. Moreover, the activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase in the hepatic cytosol were depressed in the canola oil group. The mechanisms for the higher blood pressure are unclear. However, an increase in body fluid via activation of Na(+) pump or Na(+), K(+)-ATPase and/or a blunt endothelium-dependent vasodilation by increased superoxide might have relevance to the elevated blood pressure. The increased plasma lipids and the changes in the densities of platelets and neutrophils appear not to be critical in WKY rats. However, these would tend to promote peripheral vascular lesions in the strains, such as spontaneously hypertensive rats and stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats, which are prone to present atheroscrelotic vascular injury.

[MALT lymphoma of the larynx]

We describe a 25-year-old Japanese woman with a MALT-type lymphoma of the larynx. She presented with a one-year history of hoarseness and increasing pain in the larynx. A small tumor was found on the left side of the false cord, and was biopsied under laryngoscopy in the department of laryngology. Histological examination showed the presence of centrocyte-like cells infiltrating the submucosa and forming lymphoepithelial lesions. The neoplastic cells were CD20+, CD79a+, and CD5-. Staining for keratin with CAM 5.2 highlighted the infiltrated epithelium. Analysis of DNA extracted from the biopsy specimen showed a clonal immunoglobulin heavy chain gene rearrangement, confirming the histological diagnosis of extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma of the MALT type. To our knowledge, only 6 cases of MALT lymphoma of the larynx have been reported previously. The presence of MALT lymphomas arising at rare sites emphasizes the importance of accurate diagnosis and appropriate clinical management. Patients require careful periodic evaluation in order to time the therapy appropriately, and to avoid overtreatment and complications of therapy, including secondary malignancies.

[The role of daunorubicin in induction therapy for adult acute myeloid leukemia]

The relationship between the total dose of daunorubicin (DNR) in induction therapy and the treatment outcome were evaluated based upon individualized doses of DNR during induction therapy for patients with acute myeloid leukemia(AML). Ninety-two previously untreated adult AML patients admitted to our hospital were analyzed for the dose of DNR required for complete remission (CR), the CR rate, disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). The induction therapy consisted of DNR (40 mg/m2/d, i.v., from D 1 until the marrow was hypoplastic), Ara-C, prednisolone, and/or 6-thioguanine. Eighty-three out of 92 patients were assessable. Sixty-three patients entered CR (76%), of whom 52 attained CR with the first course of induction therapy. The 10-year DFS and OS rates were 31.2% and 42.3%, respectively. The median total dose of DNR in the induction therapy was 280 mg/m2 (120-480 mg/m2), which was not influenced by initial WBC count, or FAB type. These results indicate that when the dose is linked to the observed tumor response, the optimal dose of DNR in the induction therapy is around 280 mg/m2 (40 mg/m2 x 7 times), which is higher than the conventional dose of 40-60 mg/m2 for 3 days. The higher dose of DNR in the induction therapy for adult AML should be selected when the feasibility of a new drug is evaluated in a randomized trial.

Effect of food restriction on hepatotoxicity of carbon tetrachloride in rats

Five-week-old Sprague-Dawley rats of both sexes were assigned to two types of feeding condition. One was fed ad libitum (AL) on commercial chow and another was fed a restricted amount of the chow (FR), approximately 75% of that fed in the AL condition. In each feeding condition, animals were orally administered carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) at levels of 0 (control), 0.1 or 0.2 ml/kg 6 days a week for 8 weeks. Lesions of the liver (hepatic cellular degeneration and fibrosis) and of the kidney (proximal tubular vacuolation and glomerular sclerosis) induced by CCl4 were aggravated in the FR group. The FR-control showed a higher metabolic activity of aniline in the liver than the AL-control group. Plasma lipid-peroxide (LPO) level was higher in the AL-control group than in the FR-control group. With CCl4 0.2 ml/kg treatment, however, the plasma LPO level was reversed between the AL and the FR groups. Taking together these somewhat unexpected results, it was concluded that (1) 25% food restriction increases toxicity of repeatedly administered CCl4 in rats, and (2) aggravation of CCl4 toxicity may be partly due to enhanced metabolic activation of CCl4 resulting from food restriction.

Suppression of late asthmatic response by low-dose oral administration of interferon-beta in the guinea pig model of asthma

We investigated the anti-asthmatic effects of low-dose oral and subcutaneous administration of interferon-beta (IFN-beta) on an ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized and challenged guinea pig model of asthma. Subcutaneous administration of IFN-beta suppressed the eosinophil infiltration by 14.2% of the control and the respiratory resistance (Rrs) by 58.2% at 2.0 MIU/kg. Oral administration of IFN-beta inhibited the late asthmatic response (LAR) by suppressing the increase of Rrs by 29% of the control at 1 IU/ml and the eosinophil infiltration into the trachea and lung by 34.6% at the optimum dosage of 10 IU/ml. Both subcutaneous and oral administration could not inhibit the early asthmatic response (EAR). Additionally we found 2',5'-oligoadenylate synthetase (2',5'-OAS) induction by low-dose oral administration (LDOA) of IFN-beta to the same extent as by subcutaneous administration in whole blood in vivo. These data suggest that LDOA of IFN-beta would have some clinical benefit for patients with asthma.

Selective reduction in alpha-hydroxypalmitic acid-containing sphingomyelin and concurrent increase in hydroxylated ceramides in murine skin tumors induced by an initiation-promotion regimen

The sphingomyelin cycle is activated to accumulate ceramides in the process of epidermal differentiation. We found that sphingomyelin in the epidermis of 4 different murine strains gave three bands on TLC, the lower band containing alpha-hydroxypalmitic acid (C16h:0(alpha)). However, in the papillomas induced in the skin of SENCAR and SSIN mice by initiation with 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene followed by promotion with 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol acetate, the concentration of C16h:0(alpha)-containing sphingomyelin was selectively diminished with a concomitant increase in the concentrations of the ceramides containing alpha-hydroxy fatty acids. These findings indicate a possible involvement of the selective hydrolysis of alpha-hydroxy fatty acid-containing sphingomyelin in the process of tumorigenesis in mouse skin.

Pharmacokinetics and biologic activities of human native and asialointerferon-beta s

Glycoproteins are metabolized through an asialoglycoprotein metabolic pathway in vivo. They are desialylated and taken up by the liver via an asialoglycoprotein receptor. Fibroblast-derived natural human interferon-beta is a glycoprotein having a single asparagine-linked sugar chain. Although natural human interferon-beta may also be metabolized through this pathway, there is very little information about the biologic features of human asialointerferon-beta. We evaluated the pharmacokinetics and biologic activities of human native and asialointerferon-beta s. After intravenous administration to rabbits, human asialointerferon-beta was cleared from the blood circulation faster than the human native interferon-beta. More asialoprotein was distributed to the liver than the native type, but it induced less 2'5'-oligoadenylate synthetase. The human asialointerferon-beta had less activity than the human native interferon-beta on cell growth inhibition and 2'5'-oligoadenylate synthetase induction in Hep-G2 and HuH6 human hepatoblastoma cells. Southern blotting using a hepatitis B virus-transfected HuH6 cell line, HB611, revealed that the inhibition of hepatitis B virus DNA replication by the asialoprotein was weaker than that by the native protein. The results showed that the different effects exerted by the human native and asialointerferon-beta s may be a result of recognition of the sugar chains by rabbit hepatocytes or by human hepatoblastoma cells. The results also suggested that the terminal sialic acid of the sugar chains in natural human interferon-beta significantly affects its pharmacokinetics and biologic activities.

Carbohydrate-dependent biological activities of glycosylated human interferon-beta on human hepatoblastoma cells in vitro

To evaluate the relationship between the sugar chain structure and biological activity, fibroblast-derived glycosylated human interferon-beta, Chinese hamster ovary cell-derived glycosylated recombinant human interferon-beta and Escherichia coli-derived unglycosylated recombinant human interferon-beta were evaluated using human hepatoblastoma cells in vitro. Native fibroblast interferon-beta expressed more cell-growth inhibitory action, 2'5'-oligoadenylate synthetase induction, and the inhibition of hepatitis B virus DNA replication than its asialoform and two recombinant interferon-betas. These results showed that the sugar chain structure of human interferon-beta affects its biological activity on human hepatoblastoma cells.

Cryostat sectioning of formalin-fixed brain: further attempt to improve section quality by previous infiltration with O.C.T. compound

We previously reported that in non-brain and formalin-fixed specimens, one can obtain frozen sections of markedly improved quality not only by supporting specimens with O.C.T. compound as usually done, but by infiltrating them with the medium prior to embedding. In the present paper we show that this technic also proved to be quite effective in the cryosectioning of brain tissues, which so far has been difficult because of the liability of sections to shattering, particularly when one attempts to obtain a thick section. The present paper also discusses about the reason why sectioning is improved by the procedure, and aims to establish the optimal temperature for cryostat sectioning in relation to section thickness.

[Case report of toxic shock-like syndrome due to group A streptococcal infection]

A case of streptococcal toxic shock like syndrome occurring in a 44-year-old previously healthy Japanese male is reported. He initially had a sore throat, low grade fever, diarrhea and mild pains in a lower extremities. Shortly thereafter, he rapidly developed a high fever, profound hypotension, multifocal epidermal necrosis, and sever purulent fasciitis and myositis in both lower extremities, which required above knee amputation of both legs. He later developed disseminated intravascular coagulopathy, adult respiratory distress syndrome, acute renal failure, coma and necrotizing inflammation of both arms and external genitalia despite treatment. He died on the 13th hospital day. Streptococcus pyogenes was isolated from the necrotic muscles and right knee joint. The organism was typed as M3, T3, was sensitive to penicillins, and was found to be producing streptococcal pyogenic exotoxin A in vitro. This is the first case report of streptococcal toxic shock like syndrome in Japan.

Pharmacokinetic properties of recombinant feline interferon and its stimulatory effect on 2',5'-oligoadenylate synthetase activity in the cat

The pharmacokinetic behavior of recombinant feline interferon produced in silkworm infected with recombinant baculovirus harboring cDNA coding for feline interferon was studied in vivo in cats. The decreasing profile of the serum interferon level after intravenous administration was fitted to a two-compartment model. The half-times of the first phase (distribution phase) and second phase (metabolic phase) were 5.0 +/- 0.5 min and 31 +/- 5 min, respectively. In the whole body autoradiogram, at 15 min after the administration, the highest radioactivity was observed in urine in the bladder, and predominant radioactivity in the kidneys, liver, thyroid gland and spleen. Almost no radioactivity was detected in the brain or fat. Three hr after administration, the highest radioactivity was recorded in the thyroid gland, urine in the bladder, intestinal contents, and gastric mucous membrane. The data obtained in this study suggest that recombinant feline interferon has similar pharmacokinetic properties to human interferons and that it is distributed primarily in the liver and kidneys, is catabolized rapidly mainly in the kidneys, and is excreted in the urine without residual accumulation in the body. It was confirmed that 2',5'-oligoadenylate synthetase activity was increased by the interferon in vivo for 3 days after an intravenous bolus injection in cats.

Procedure for evaluating changes in respiratory symptoms of experimentally asthma-induced guinea pigs by a personal computer

An automated system was developed for evaluating changes in respiratory symptoms in guinea pigs over a long period with a personal computer. The data on breathing curves obtained with a body plethysmograph were analyzed to determine respiratory rate, expiration/inspiration ratio, ventilation ratio, and other parameters. With this system, respiratory changes in guinea pigs, such as increase or decrease of respiratory rate, expiration/inspiration ratio, and ventilation ratio, and death of animals could be easily observed. Investigation of delayed respiratory response to Candida albicans in sensitized guinea pigs and of the effects of SO2 or NO2 exposures on its response was carried out using this system. Respiratory changes in delayed respiratory response were mostly increased respiration rate and succeeding expiratory prolongation being noted just before death. In the influences of SO2 or NO2 exposure on delayed respiratory response, increase of respiratory rate in NO2 and expiratory and inspiratory prolongation in SO2 were found. This system should prove useful for evaluating changes in respiratory symptoms due to toxic agents, medicines, and air pollutants in small animals.

Identification of 1-alkyl-2-acyl-3-(2',3'-diacylglycerol)glycerols, a new type of lipid class, in harderian gland tumors of mice

A new class of alkyl glycerolipids, 1-alkyl-2-acyl-3-(2',3'-diacylglycerol)glycerols, was identified in lipid extracts prepared from harderian gland tumors of mice. After saponification, this lipid class yielded 1-alkyl-3-(1'-glycerol)glycerols. Identification was based on mass spectrometry, proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and chromatography of various derivatives and appropriate standards that were synthesized. The alkyl moieties of this unique lipid class consisted of saturated aliphatic chains with chain lengths of 14 to 20 carbon atoms. The acyl moieties were mostly saturated and monounsaturated aliphatic chains ranging from 14 to 24 carbon atoms. The alkyl and acyl moieties of 1-alkyl-2-acyl-3-(2',3'-diacylglycerol)glycerols were similar to those of alkyldiacylglycerols present in the same tissue, except for the presence of monounsaturated alkyl moieties in the latter. 1-Alkyl-2-acyl-3-(2', 3'-diacylglycerol)glycerols were only found in trace amounts in the normal harderian glands of mice. The total quantity of the alkyl and acyl moieties with a chain length greater than 20 carbon atoms in the alkyldiacylglycerols from tumors were considerably lower than those found in normal harderian glands of mice. This is the first report of the presence of bisglyceryl ether lipids in mammalian tissue; its unique chemical structure is consistent with the type of ether-linked lipid products that could be synthesized in the reaction catalyzed by alkyldihydroxyacetone-P synthase.

Biotransformation of nitric oxide

Previous investigations into the health effects of nitrogen oxides (NOx) have mostly been conducted with special reference to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and its direct effects on the respiratory system, while the study of nitric oxide (NO) has been disregarded. We carried out a study on NO by exposing rats and mice to 15NO or administering 15N-nitrite and 15N-nitrate to these animals by IP injection in order to elucidate the metabolic fate of NO. The results of our study and previous findings led us to assume that the major metabolic path of inhaled NO is as follows: inhaled NO reacts with hemoglobin, forming nitrosyl-hemoglobin (NOHb), and from NOHb, nitrite (NO2-) and nitrate (NO3-) are generated. Major quantities of NO3- are discharged into the urine and a certain amount is discharged into the oral cavity through the salivary glands and transformed to NO2-. Part of this NO2- is converted to N2 gas in the stomach. Nitrate in the intestine is partly reduced to ammonia (NH3) through NO2-, reabsorbed into the body, and converted to urea. Most of the metabolites of inhaled NO are excreted rapidly from the body within 48 hr.

[Pharmacokinetics of human fibroblast interferon in rats]

Pharmacokinetic behaviors of human fibroblast interferon (HuIFN-beta) administered intravenously to rats were examined. After intravenous injection, plasma interferon level decreased in a biexponential fashion having the half-times of 15 min and 120 min respectively. Distribution levels of HuIFN-beta in the tissues at 30 min, though the actual concentrations were less than that of plasma, were observed according to the following order; kidney greater than adrenal greater than lung greater than spleen greater than liver greater than testis. Small amounts of HuIFN-beta were also detected in the thoracic lymph and bile but no HuIFN-beta was found in urine. The in vitro study indicated that the stability of HuIFN-beta was different in each tissue homogenates and body fluids. From the results obtained, we concluded that HuIFN-beta exhibited a low distributional character to the tissues when administered intravenously. It was also suggested that the kidney and the liver were the main catabolic sites of HuIFN-beta.

Different pharmacokinetics between natural and recombinant human interferon beta in rabbits

The pharmacokinetic behavior of recombinant (r) HuIFN-beta was compared with that of fibroblast-derived HuIFN-beta in rabbits using a pharmacokinetic model analysis with a computer curve-fitting. The observed data were in good agreement with a two-compartment open model in intravenous experiment, and with a one-compartment open model in intramuscular and continuous infusion experiments. Although the parameters of elimination phase (beta, Kel or K10) were almost the same in both IFNs, there were significant differences for the parameters (alpha, K12, K21, V1, V2, Vdss) of distribution phase in intravenous experiment and for the parameter (Vd) of the steady-state level in continuous infusion experiment. These results indicate that rHuIFN-beta has a larger distribution volume and a higher distribution rate from the central compartment to the peripheral. The serum levels in intramuscular experiment represented so-called flip-flop type of kinetics. Although the absorption rate from the injection site to the blood circulation was similar in both IFNs, the availability of rHuIFN-beta was higher than that of fibroblast-derived HuIFN-beta. These results suggest that the deficiency of carbohydrate moiety conjugated with IFN molecule may influence the distribution property in vivo.

Biotransformation of nitric oxide, nitrite and nitrate

Biotransformation of NO, nitrite and nitrate was investigated in rats and mice in a 15NO inhalation experiment and intraperitoneal injection experiments of 15N-nitrite and 15N-nitrate, and the following results were obtained: (1) Rats were forced to inhale 15NO (145 ppm, 123 minutes) or were given an intraperitoneal injection of 15N-nitrite (2 mg animal-1 as 15N) or 15N-nitrate (2mg animal-1 as 15N), and determination of 15N recovery in urine was made up to 48 h later. The results were 55, 53 and 78% of the inhaled or injected 15N, respectively. (2) 15N-nitrate in the urine was converted into a 6-nitro derivative of 3,4-xylenol and its identification and quantitative determination were made by the GC-MS method. As to 15N-urea in the urine, identification and quantitative determination were made by the urease method. 15N was present in the urine of rats after 15NO inhalation in the form of NO3- and urea. 75 and 24% respectively. In the urine of rats injected with 15N-nitrite, about 20% of unidentified 15N-compounds not discovered in the inhalation experiment was found. The content of 15N-urea in the urine after injection with 15N-nitrate was lower than that after injection with 15N-nitrite. (3) When 15N-nitrite (0.617 mg animal-1 as 15N) was injected intraperitoneally in mice, 60.7, 7.8 and 0.3% of the injected 15N were found in the urine, feces and exhaled gas (NO, NO2 and NH3 in the gas were caught) up to 48 h after injection respectively, and 1.6% was found in the body 48 h after injection, but the remaining 30% of 15N could not be recovered.

Antitumor effect of palmitoleic acid on Ehrlich ascites tumor

Palmitoleic acid (PLOA) markedly prolonged the survival time of mice bearing Ehrlich ascites tumor at doses of 37.5-150 mg/kg/day X 10, but the antitumor activity of oleic acid (OA) was weaker than that of PLOA. The total lipid and phospholipid contents in the tumor cells treated with PLOA were significantly decreased. In addition, the fatty acid pattern of phosphatidyl choline, cholesterol esters and triglycerides from the PLOA-treated Ehrlich tumor cells differed markedly from that of the corresponding lipids from the control tumor cells.

Inhibition of acid esterase in rat liver by 4,4'-diethylamino-ethoxyhexestrol

The effect of 4,4'-diethylamino-ethoxyhexestrol (DH) on acid esterase in rat liver was studied in vivo and in vitro. The acid esterase activity in the livers of rats treated with 0.125% DH for 1 week was found to decrease more than 60% as compared with that in untreated rats. The addition of DH to the incubation medium caused considerable inhibition of the acid esterase activity in lysosome from untreated rat liver, and the inhibition type appears to be noncompetitive. The acid lipase activity in rat liver lysosome was also inhibited by DH. Some antihistamic agents and chloroquine also inhibited the acid esterase activity in rat liver lysosome.