Effect of administering activated lymphocytes originated from the dam on the immune cell reaction in Holstein calves

Injection of lymphokine activated killer (LAK) cells is known as useful for activation of cellular immune system. Although the effect of LAK cells has been clarified in human or mice, this effect on function of immune cells has not been examined in calves. Healthy ten Holstein calves were injected with the LAK cells 2 days after birth (LAK Group), and another eight calves were observed as controls (Control Group). All calves received the colostrum formulation on the day of birth, and then, were inoculated with a live attenuated vaccine of bovine herpesvirus (BHV)-1 at 2 (the first vaccination) and 6 (the second vaccination) weeks after birth. Peripheral blood of their dam obtained 3 weeks before calving was used for preparation of LAK cells. Blood samples were taken prior to vaccine inoculation and 3 days after the first inoculation, as well as 3 and 6 days after the second vaccination from all calves. Numbers of CD8+ and CD21+ cells increased significantly after the second vaccination in the LAK Group compared with Control Group. The present study suggested the improved effect of injecting LAK cells originated from dams on immune cells function of young calves after BHV-1 live vaccine.

Variations in the viral genome and biological properties of bovine leukemia virus wild-type strains

Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) is the etiological agent of enzootic bovine leukosis (EBL), which causes enormous economic losses in the livestock industry worldwide. To reduce the economic loss caused by BLV infection, it is important to clarify the characters associated with BLV transmissibility and pathogenesis in cattle. In this study, we focused on viral characters and examined spontaneous mutations in the virus and viral properties by analyses of whole genome sequences and BLV molecular clones derived from cows with and without EBL. Genomic analysis indicated that all 28 strains harbored limited genetic variations but no deletion mutations that allowed classification into three groups (A, B, and C), except for one strain. Some nucleotide/amino acid substitutions were specific to a particular group. On the other hand, these genetic variations were not associated with the host bovine leukocyte antigen-DRB3 allele, which is known to be related to BLV pathogenesis. The viral replication activity in vitro was high, moderate, and low in groups A, B, and C, respectively. In addition, the proviral load, which is related to BLV transmissibility and pathogenesis, was high in cows infected with group A strains and low in those infected with group B/C strains. Therefore, these results suggest that limited genetic variations could affect viral properties relating to BLV transmissibility and pathogenesis.

Lunar Cycle Influences Spontaneous Delivery in Cows

There is a popular belief that the lunar cycle influences spontaneous delivery in both humans and cattle. To assess this relationship, we investigated the synodic distribution of spontaneous deliveries in domestic Holstein cows. We used retrospective data from 428 spontaneous, full-term deliveries within a three-year period derived from the calving records of a private farm in Hokkaido, Japan. Spontaneous birth frequency increased uniformly from the new moon to the full moon phase and decreased until the waning crescent phase. There was a statistically significant peak between the waxing gibbous and full moon phases compared with those between the last quarter and the waning crescent. These changes were clearly observed in deliveries among multiparous cows, whereas they were not evident in deliveries among nulliparous cows. These data suggest the utility of dairy cows as models for bio-meteorological studies, and indicate that monitoring lunar phases may facilitate comprehensive understanding of parturition.

Effects of rotational acetabular osteotomy on the mechanical stress within the hip joint in patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip

In this study we used subject-specific finite element analysis to investigate the mechanical effects of rotational acetabular osteotomy (RAO) on the hip joint and analysed the correlation between various radiological measurements and mechanical stress in the hip joint.

We evaluated 13 hips in 12 patients (two men and ten women, mean age at surgery 32.0 years; 19 to 46) with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) who were treated by RAO.

Subject-specific finite element models were constructed from CT data. The centre–edge (CE) angle, acetabular head index (AHI), acetabular angle and acetabular roof angle (ARA) were measured on anteroposterior pelvic radiographs taken before and after RAO. The relationship between equivalent stress in the hip joint and radiological measurements was analysed.

The equivalent stress in the acetabulum decreased from 4.1 MPa (2.7 to 6.5) pre-operatively to 2.8 MPa (1.8 to 3.6) post-operatively (p < 0.01). There was a moderate correlation between equivalent stress in the acetabulum and the radiological measurements: CE angle (R = –0.645, p < 0.01); AHI (R = –0.603, p < 0.01); acetabular angle (R = 0.484, p = 0.02); and ARA (R = 0.572, p < 0.01).

The equivalent stress in the acetabulum of patients with DDH decreased after RAO. Correction of the CE angle, AHI and ARA was considered to be important in reducing the mechanical stress in the hip joint.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:492–7.

Changes in leukocyte populations of cows with milk fever or displaced abomasum after calving

Most of the metabolic diseases of dairy cows occur within the first 2 wk after calving, and cows with a metabolic disease are prone to infectious diseases. Although metabolic diseases are generally recognized as a risk factor for infectious diseases owing to the associated decrease in immune function, the difference in immune status between cows with milk fever (MF) or displaced abomasum (DA) during the lactation period has not been clarified. Therefore, the peripheral blood leukocyte populations in 38 multiparous Holstein cows from 1 herd were analyzed after calving. The cows were divided into 3 groups according to health: 21 cows that remained clinically healthy throughout the experimental period (control group), 9 cows that had MF on the day of calving, and 8 cows with an onset of DA within 4 wk after calving. The T- and B-cell numbers were lowest at week 0, and they increased gradually after calving. There was no significant difference between the 3 groups in the number of each subset of leukocytes on the day of calving, but the number of CD8⁺ T-cells was significantly lower in the MF and DA groups than in the control group at week 1. The numbers of CD4⁺, CD8⁺, and WC1⁺ T-cells tended to be lower in the DA group than in control group from weeks 4 to 12, a tendency not observed in the MF group. These data suggest that when cows have DA around the time of calving, their lymphocyte numbers remain lower until 12 wk after calving.

Hormonal differences in peripheral blood and gene profiling in the liver and lymphocytes in Japanese black cattle with growth retardation

Japanese Black cattle occasionally demonstrate growth retardation despite sufficient nutrient intake. To clarify hormonal and transcriptional characteristics, we investigated differences in blood components, including hormones, and differences in exhaustive gene expressions in the liver and peripheral lymphocytes of six cattle with growth retardation (GR cattle) and eight control cattle of the same age and pedigree with normal growth. Hematocrit values and concentrations of hemoglobin, serum albumin, total cholesterol, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), thyroxine and insulin in GR cattle were significantly lower than those in controls. GR cattle also excreted higher levels of GH. We used three GR and three control cattle for a microarray analysis in the liver and found that 279 gene expressions were significantly different. However, gene expressions related to the GH-IGF-1 axis, such as the GH receptor and IGF-1, were not significantly different from those of controls. Immune-related gene expressions were significantly lower. To clarify these gene expression levels, peripheral lymphocytes were used for real-time RT-PCR. The expression rates of genes that were significantly lower in the liver, such as chemokine ligand 8, interferon gamma receptor 1 and immunoglobulin light chain VJ region were also significantly lower in three GR cattle than those in the three control cattle. These results suggest that the cause of growth retardation in the present study was due to other factors, not abnormal gene expressions of factors related to the GH-IGF-1 axis in the liver, and that GR cattle were susceptible to infectious disease.

Effect of progesterone on Th1/Th2/Th17 and regulatory T cell-related genes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells during pregnancy in cows

T helper (Th) cells play a central role in immune responses and new Th1/Th2/Th17 and regulatory T (Treg)-cell paradigm in pregnancy has developed. Progesterone (P(4)) is essential for the maintenance of pregnancy; however the effect of P(4) on Th1/Th2/Th17 and Treg paradigm is unclear in cows. We evaluated the effect of P(4) on the expression of Th1/Th2/Th17 and Treg-related cytokines, transcription factors, and P(4) receptors in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from 8 pregnant (163.1 ± 16.9 days of gestation) and 8 non-pregnant luteal phase cows. PBMCs were stimulated with P(4) at 0, 0.1, 1 or 10 μg/ml, and the mRNA expression of Th1, Th2, Th17 and Treg-related cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-17 and TGF-β), transcription factors (T-bet, GATA-3, RORC and Foxp3) and P(4) receptors (PGR, PGRMC1 and PGRMC2) were analyzed by real time RT-PCR. In both pregnant and non-pregnant cows, P(4) significantly inhibited the expression of IFN-γ and IL-17 dose-dependently, whereas P(4) did not affect the expression of TGF-β and Foxp3. In addition, P(4) significantly decreased the expression of T-bet and RORC, and enhanced the expression of IL-4 in the pregnant cows, but this reaction was not found in the non-pregnant cows. P(4) tended to increase PGRMC1 in the pregnant cows but not in the non-pregnant cows, indicating that PGRMC1 may be involved in the regulation of the effect of P(4) during bovine pregnancy. These results indicate that P(4) is an important regulator of Th1/Th2/Th17 and Treg immunity, and higher Th2 immunity is characteristic in the pregnant cows.

Effect of progesterone on the in vitro response of peripheral blood mononuclear cells stimulated by Escherichia coli in mares

Escherichia coli(E. coli) isolated from the uterus of a Thoroughbred mare with bacterial endometritis was used to evaluate the effect of progesterone (P(4)) on the immune response of mares. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were collected from 10 nonpregnant clinically healthy adult mares (range, 4-12 years) during diestrus, four Thoroughbreds and six Hokkaido native horses. Cell proliferation and expression of cytokine mRNA, including interferon (IFN)-γ, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-10, of PBMCs stimulated with E. coli and P(4) were examined in vitro. P(4) was shown to have significantly inhibited E. coli induced proliferation and expression of IFN-γ in PBMCs. These results indicate that P(4) inhibits the immune response to E. coli in mares.

Surgery for clavicular and humeral fractures in an osteopetrotic patient: a case report

Osteopetrosis is a rare disease characterised by generalised sclerosis of the bone. Surgical treatment for fractures in osteopetrotic bones is difficult due to their hardness. We report successful surgical treatment of humeral and clavicular fractures in a 30-year-old osteopetrotic patient with severe multiple trauma. Two years after surgery, the patient had a full range of movement at the shoulder and elbow, with good bone union and alignment.

Nestin expression in the kidney with an obstructed ureter

Nestin is an intermediate filament protein originally identified in neuroepithelial stem cells. This cytoskeletal-associated protein is also expressed in some non-neuronal organs including renal tubular cells and glomerular endothelial cells during kidney development. Little is known, however, about nestin expression in the kidney during injury. In this study, we find nestin expression induced in renal tubular and interstitial myofibroblasts in the adult rat kidney following unilateral ureteral obstruction. The degree of nestin expression was well correlated with the degree of tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Immunohistochemical identification of specific nephron segments showed that nestin was primarily expressed by proximal tubules, partially by distal tubules and thick ascending limbs of Henle but not by collecting ducts. The nestin-positive tubular cells also expressed vimentin and heat-shock protein 47 (HSP47) suggesting these cells reverted to a mesenchymal phenotype. Not all vimentin- or HSP-expressing cells expressed nestin; however, suggesting that nestin is distinct from these conventional mesenchymal markers. Nestin expression was also found associated with phenotypical changes in cultured renal cells induced by hypoxia or transforming growth factor-beta. Nestin expression was located in hypoxic regions of the kidney with an obstructed ureter. Our results indicate that nestin could be a novel marker for tubulointerstitial injury.

Widespread crystalline inclusions affecting podocytes, tubular cells and interstitial histiocytes in the myeloma kidney

Numerous crystalline inclusions were observed in glomerular and tubular epithelial cells in a 46-year-old female patient with multiple myeloma and renal dysfunction. On light microscopy, epithelial cells were filled with homogenous materials and were remarkably swollen. Infiltrations of histiocytes with expanded cytoplasm were also seen in the interstitium of the kidney and bone marrow. On electron microscopy, cytoplasmic inclusions had crystalline structure showing rhomboid and oval shapes. Immunofluorescence study revealed that these cells were positive for IgG-kappa. The combination chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplantation led to a partial resolution of her renal dysfunction, continued by a slight reduction in the number of crystalline-containing podocytes at the second renal biopsy. Crystal inclusions in the kidney are rarely found and cause renal impairment in multiple myeloma.

Tyrosinase induction and inactivation in normal cultured human melanocytes by endothelin-1

Since endothelin was found to be expressed in epithelial cells as well as in vascular endothelial cells, the functional regulation of melanocytes with endothelin has been actively investigated. In particular, it has been suggested that endothelin may influence pigmentation and depigmentation, which are mediated by melanocytes. In the present study, we investigated the regulation of melanocyte function and tyrosinase expression by endothelin from the point of view of tyrosinase protein expression and enzyme activity. The influence of endothelins on melanocyte function was assessed. Melanocytes showed a dose-dependent increase in cell proliferation with the addition of endothelin-1. When the confluence of melanocytes was cultured with endothelin-1 for 72 h, tyrosinase activity in melanocytes was significantly and dose-dependently decreased. In contrast, there was no significant change with endothelin-3. However, tyrosinase protein expression of melanocytes was significantly and dose-dependently increased by endothelin-1, but endothelin-3 had no effect. Both the suppression of enzyme activity and the enhanced protein expression were regulated by the ETA receptor antagonist, BQ123. In view of these observations, we conclude that endothelin-1-induced tyrosinase is mediated by ETA receptors. However, the reason for the decrease in the specific activity of tyrosinase remains unknown, and our results suggest that another mechanism underlying the activation of tyrosinase is present in addition to the inductive action of endothelin-1 on tyrosinase.

Healing characteristics of deep digital flexor tenorrhaphy within the digital sheath of horses

OBJECTIVE

To describe the healing characteristics of deep digital flexor tenorrhaphy within the digital sheath.

STUDY DESIGN

Experimental study.

ANIMALS

Five mature horses.

METHODS

Right thoracic limb, deep digital flexor tenorrhaphy was performed within the digital sheath. Limbs were cast in partial flexion using a short limb cast for 6 weeks. Next, extended heel shoes were used for limb support for 14 weeks. Healing was evaluated by sequential ultrasonographic examinations, and limb use was evaluated by force plate analysis. At 26 weeks, mechanical strength and morphologic characteristics of the repair site were evaluated.

RESULTS

Gap (mean, 0.93 cm.) formation was evident in unloaded limbs at 3 weeks. This increased markedly by 6 weeks and was 5 cm at 26 weeks. Demarcation between the deep and superficial flexor tendons decreased as the transected ends adhered to the dorsal surface of the superficial flexor tendon. The intrathecal space was reduced by fibrous tissue. Mean maximum load to failure of the repair tissue was 4,616 +/- 3,556 N, with a mean stress of 12.99 +/- 2.78 MPa. The repair consistently failed at the adhesion between the transected tendon and the superficial flexor tendon.

CONCLUSIONS

Intrathecal tenorrhaphy with external coaptation (in partial limb flexion) for 6 weeks resulted in gap healing, fibrous adhesion between the deep and superficial flexor tendons, fibrous tissue reduction of the intrathecal space, and a pasture-sound horse at 26 weeks.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Without improved methods for immobilizing the deep digital flexor tendon, intrathecal tenorrhaphy is unlikely to result in first intention tendon healing.

Interaction of peptides derived from RecA with single-stranded oligonucleotides containing 5-formyl-2'-deoxyuridine

We report the first example of chemical cross-linking of 5-formyl-2'-deoxyuridine containing oligonucleotides with oligopeptides through a Schiff base formation. Twenty amino acid residue peptides investigated here were derived from the DNA binding site of RecA protein. We have demonstrated that the lysine residue placed at the 6th or 8th position from the N-terminus of the peptide directly contacts with DNA.

[Troubles inherent to long-term home parenteral nutrition (HPN) and the use of technologies to improve communication between medical institutions and patients]

The continuous advance of technology has contributed to the improvement of the quality of life of patients under long-term home parenteral nutrition (HPN). But the longer the patient stays home, the higher the risk of many kinds of troubles. We designed an HPN system in June 1999, which uses E-mail for patients and to contact with each other (including the patient's family) and to prevent troubles from worsening. We describe the case of a patient which shows the efficacy and usefulness of our system, which makes use of the Internet, video mail, voice mail and electric medical records.

Alpha-tocopherol affects the urinary and biliary excretion of 2,7,8-trimethyl-2 (2'-carboxyethyl)-6-hydroxychroman, gamma-tocopherol metabolite, in rats

In this study, we investigated a change in the excretory content of 2,7,8-trimethyl-2(2'-carboxyethyl)-6-hydroxychroman (gamma-CEHC), a gamma-tocopherol (gamma-Toc) metabolite, in rat urine and bile by using a new high-performance liquid chromatography-electrochemical detection (HPLC-ECD) method. In this determination, CEHC [alpha- and gamma-CEHC, where alpha-CEHC = 2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2(2'-carboxyethyl)-6-hydroxychroman] in the biological specimens were treated with 3 N methanolic HCl to hydrolyze conjugates and to promote esterification. The methylated samples were extracted by n-hexane/water (1:2). The analyses of the methyl esters of alpha-CEHC and gamma-CEHC were performed by an HPLC-ECD using an ODS-3 column at 35 degrees C. The mobile phase was acetonitrile/water (45:55, vol/vol) containing 50 mM sodium perchlorate. After rat urine and bile samples, respectively, were methylated as described above, methylated biliary metabolites were identified by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry as methyl esters of gamma-CEHC. Furthermore, we examined the differences in the excretion of gamma-CEHC between rat urine and bile after an oral administration of gamma-Toc or alpha- + gamma-Toc by the above HPLC method. In the gamma-Toc group, each vitamin E-deficient rat was given 0.5 mL of a stripped corn oil preparation containing 10 mg of gamma-Toc. In the alpha- + gamma-Toc group, the rat was given 10 mg of alpha-Toc and 10 mg of gamma-Toc. The content of gamma-CEHC in rat urine from the alpha- + gamma-Toc group was increased more in comparison to the gamma-Toc group at 18-36 h after oral administration. Moreover, the content of gamma-CEHC in rat bile in the alpha- + gamma-Toc group was increased more in comparison to the gamma-Toc group at 6-18 h after oral administration. Therefore, we have suggested that gamma-CEHC was shifted mainly to urinary excretion after gamma-CEHC had been excreted into the bile. Furthermore, we assume that alpha-Toc may affect the metabolism of gamma-Toc to gamma-CEHC in the body.

Chemical cross-linking of peptides derived from RecA with single-stranded oligonucleotides containing 5-formyl-2'-deoxyuridine

We report the first example of chemical cross-linking of 5-formyl-2'-deoxyuridine containing oligonucleotides with oligopeptides through a Schiff base formation. Twenty amino acid residue peptides investigated here were derived from the DNA binding site of RecA protein. We have demonstrated that the lysine residue placed at the 6th or 8th position from the N-terminus of the peptide directly contacts with DNA.

A Novel Traceless Resin-Bound Guanidinylating Reagent for Secondary Amines To Prepare N,N-Disubstituted Guanidines

[reaction: see text]. We report the development of a solid support-linked guanidinylating reagent. This reagent consists of a urethane-protected triflyl guanidine attached to the resin via a carbamate linker. It allows for rapid synthesis of guanidines from a variety of amines. It provides access to N-alkyl/aryl- or N,N-dialkylguanidines under mild conditions. Cleavage with 50% TFA produces target molecules in high yields and purity. The ability to guanidinylate secondary amines is a significant feature of this guanidinylating reagent.

Molecular cloning and expression of aminopeptidase A isoforms from rat hippocampus

The full-length cDNA encoding aminopeptidase A (APAL) was cloned from a rat hippocampus cDNA library. A short variant aminopeptidase A (APAS), produced by deletion, was also cloned. In the case of APAL, the longest open reading frame encodes 945 amino acid residues with a calculated molecular mass of 108 kDa, and the deduced amino acid sequence shows 76, 86 and 78% identity with its human, murine and porcine counterparts, respectively. Rat aminopeptidase A mRNAs were detected in the kidney, liver, heart and brain by Northern blot analysis. When overexpressed in COS-1 cells, APAL shows apparent aminopeptidase A activity, whereas APAS does not.

Impaired Kupffer cell function and effect of immunotherapy in obstructive jaundice

BACKGROUND

Obstructive jaundice is frequently associated with septic complications. This study examined the influence of biliary obstruction on bacterial clearance and translocation. The study focused on the phagocytic and killing activities of Kupffer cells and the preventive effect on bacterial translocation of OK-432, which is a hemolytic streptococcal preparation developed as a biological response modifier.

METHODS

To study the mechanism of sepsis in obstructive jaundice, two groups of Wistar rats were examined: rats subjected to common bile duct ligation (CBDL) and rats subjected to a sham operation. Bacterial clearance, organ distribution, hepatic blood flow, and phagocytic function of Kupffer cells were examined. To evaluate the effect of OK-432 on bacterial translocation, rats were divided into three groups: sham operation + phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), CBDL + PBS, and CBDL + OK-432.

RESULTS

In this study, clearance of Escherichia coli. from the peripheral blood in CBDL rats was decreased significantly compared with that in sham-operated rats. Significant decreases in E.coli trapped in the liver and in hepatic blood flow were observed in CBDL rats compared with sham-operated rats. Phagocytic activity and superoxide production of Kupffer cells isolated from CBDL rats were significantly lower than in sham-operated rats. The incidence of bacterial translocation in CBDL rats was increased significantly, and oral administration of OK-432 prevented it.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that susceptibility to infection in obstructive jaundice is due to impaired phagocytic function of Kupffer cells. Furthermore, obstructive jaundice promotes bacterial translocation, and OK-432 may be useful in preventing this translocation.

Interaction between antioxidants and hydroquinone/bisphenol

We have investigated the stability of semiquinone radical (SQ .) produced from the mixture of hydroquinone (HQ) and bisphenol A (BPA) in the presence of various antioxidants, some of which induce apoptosis in tumor cell lines. BPA produced no detectable amount of ESR signal. The acceleration of HQ oxidation by BPA results in the production of SQ .. The BPA-enhanced SQ . production may occur through either SQ. regeneration by electron transfer from BPA working as an antioxidant or the O2- scavenging activity of BPA. SQ . intensity of HQ/BPA was reduced by lower concentrations of sodium ascorbate, epigallocatechin, gallate and quercetin, but significantly enhanced by gallic acid. The initial SQ . was replaced by the radicals of antioxidants except lignin and salicylic acid, at higher concentrations, due to their radical-radical coupling or dismutation process. Among these compounds, gallic acid enhanced the radical intensity of SQ . to the greatest extent. The results suggest that antioxidants from foods suppress the activity of xenobiotics such as HQ, however, they produce their own radical at higher concentrations, suggesting their bimodal actions. The present study demonstrates the usefulness of ESR spectroscopy for the interaction between HQ/BPA and antioxidants.

Surviving and proliferating faculty of fibroblasts cultured under no-serum and poor nutritional conditions. The basic study on hybridation of cultured cells with an artificial matrix

BACKGROUND

In this study, we measured survival periods of fibroblasts cultured under conditions providing minimal nutrition. This investigation aims to develop the high affinity hybrid artificial organs on tissues or organs finally.

METHODS

Dermal fibroblasts were inoculated on 96-well multiplate according to routine technique. The medium of these cells maintained for 24 hours replaced the new DME medium containing 10% FBS (group 1) or without FBS (group 2) and then cultured for 10 days without medium change. The surviving cell numbers were measured using MTS assay.

RESULTS

Surviving cell numbers of both groups decreased progressively during the 10-day assay period. Overall 25-40% of the fibroblasts survived for at least 10 days. It decreased significantly, however, in group 2 from day 2 through day 4 as compared to group 1. In contrast, the cell number decreased in group 1 to a greater extent than in group 2 after day 6. When the cells that survived until day 10 were then cultured with fresh DME medium containing 10% FBS for 3 more days, the cell numbers returned to 50-100% of the initial level

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that fibroblasts cell function is maintained under poor nutritional conditions, i.e., without serum, possibly via an autocrine or paracrine mechanism. These data could contribute much to the research of hybrid artificial organs, including an artificial trachea, in which hybridization of cultured cells with artificial matrices remains to be a basic process, and has to serve in bloodless postimplantation period.

Changes in endothelin-1, 6-keto-PG-F1 alpha, and TX-B2 in random pattern flaps

In this study we investigated kinetic changes in the ratio of endothelin-1 (ET-1) and eicosanoids (6-keto-PG-F1 alpha TX-B2) in 20 x 60 mm random pattern flaps from rats. The ET-1 content of regions A (20 mm from the peripheral end) and B (20-40 mm) 6 h after surgery tended to decrease slightly compared to the ET-1 content immediately after surgery. The ET-1 content of region C (20 mm from the flap base) 6 h postoperatively increased significantly compared to that immediately after surgery. The ET-1 content of region C 6 h after surgery was significantly higher compared to that of regions A and B, which were obtained simultaneously. The ratios of eicosanoids in the three regions 6 h after surgery were significantly lower than those immediately after operation. However, the ratio in region A was higher than that in region C, showing that there was a difference in distribution in the flap between ET-1 and eicosanoids. The administration of an ETA receptor antagonist, FR-139317, extended the survival length of the flap. These results suggest that ET-1 can regulate the microcirculation in a flap directly and/or indirectly.

Physiological roles of endothelium-derived nitric oxide in the epigastric island flaps of rabbits

Nitric oxide (NO), identified as the mediator of endothelium-dependent relaxation of vascular smooth muscle, is known to cause a number of inflammatory conditions, especially in ischemia/reperfusion injury. This experimental study, using a rabbit epigastric island flap, was designed to investigate whether skin flap ischemia followed by reperfusion-influenced serum NO and c-GMP concentrations in the flap. In addition, we also investigated the premedicated effects of the NO synthase inhibitor and heparin on serum NO and c-GMP concentrations in skin flap ischemia/reperfusion. Serum NO concentration after 15, 30, 45, and 60 minutes of ischemia followed by reperfusion significantly increased compared with that in nonischemic control and elevated flaps. On the contrary, serum NO concentration was suppressed in L-NAME or aminoguanidine pretreated animals with ischemic group. Administration of heparin increased the serum NO concentration in elevated flaps, but suppressed it in ischemic flaps followed by reperfusion. The changes in serum c-GMP and NO concentrations were related in all of the experimental groups. These results suggest that NO may be derived from vascular endothelial cells and dilate peripheral vessels in compensation for ischemia.

Differential effects of granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) in enhancing macrophage resistance to Legionella pneumophila vs Candida albicans

It has been reported that granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), one of the hemopoietic growth factors which regulates the function of phagocytic cells, is a potent activator of cultured macrophages and induces antimicrobial activities as well as differentiation of precursor cells. In this study, we examined the ability of recombinant murine GM-CSF to activate mouse peritoneal macrophages to restrict the growth of two different microorganisms, Candida albicans and Legionella pneumophila, both of which are important opportunistic pathogens in an immunocompromised host. Treatment of thioglycollate-elicited BDF1 mouse macrophages with GM-CSF for 24 hr enhanced the anti-C. albicans activity of the macrophages in terms of inhibiting growth of the fungi. Reactive oxygen (H2O2) and IL-1 production by the macrophages were also enhanced by treatment with GM-CSF. However, no enhancement of anti-L. pneumophila activity of macrophages obtained from either susceptible A/J or resistant BDF1 mice to L. pneumophila infection after treatment with up to 1000 units/ml GM-CSF was observed under the same conditions. When the treatment time was extended to 72 hr. GM-CSF was still unable to induce anti-L. pneumophila activity. As a control study, treatment with recombinant IFN-gamma enhanced both anti-Candida and anti-Legionella activity in cultured macrophages under the same conditions used in the GM-CSF study. Measurement of cellular iron content revealed the low iron content in IFN-gamma-treated macrophages, but no decrease of iron in GM-CSF-treated macrophages compared with the control group, indicating a possible involvement of iron as a key factor in anti-L. pneumophila activity. Thus, the results of the study show that GM-CSF activation of elicited peritoneal macrophages is selective with regard to the type of antimicrobial activity induced.

Apoptosis induction resulting from proteasome inhibition

Proteases are known to be involved in the apoptotic pathway. We report here that benzyloxycarbonyl (Z)-Leu-Leu-leucinal(ZLLLal), a leupeptin analogue, can induce apoptosis in MOLT-4 and L5178Y cells. ZLLLal is a cell-permeant inhibitor of proteasome. Among the protease inhibitors tested, only calpain inhibitor I (acetyl-Leu-Leu-norleucinal) and ZLLLal caused a marked induction of apoptosis in MOLT-4 cells. In contrast Z-Leu-leucinal, a specific inhibitor of calpain, did not induce apoptosis. When MOLT-4 cells were incubated in the presence of ZLLLal, p53 accumulated in the cells. These results strongly suggest that inhibition of proteasome induces p53-dependent apoptosis and that proteasome can protect cell from apoptosis.

Differential inhibition of calpain and proteasome activities by peptidyl aldehydes of di-leucine and tri-leucine

To explore membrane-permeable synthetic inhibitors that discriminate between endogenous calpain and proteasome in cells, we examined the inhibition of profiles against calpain and proteasome in vitro and in vivo of peptidyl aldehydes possessing di-leucine and tri-leucine. The tripeptide aldehyde benzyloxycarbonyl-leucyl-leucinal (ZLLLal) strongly inhibited calpain and proteasome activities in vitro. The concentration required for 50% inhibition (IC50) of the casein-degrading activity of calpain was 1.25 microM, and the IC50s for the succinyl-leucyl-leucyl-valyl-tyrosine-4-methylcoumaryl-7-amide (Suc-LLVY-MCA)- and benzyloxycarbonyl-leucyl-leucyl-leucine-4-methylcoumaryl -7-amide (ZLLL-MCA)-degrading activities of proteasome were 850 and 100 nM, respectively. On the other hand, the synthetic dipeptide aldehyde benzyloxycarbonyl-leucyl-leucinal (ZLLal) strongly inhibited the casein degrading activity of calpain (IC50 1.20 microM), but the inhibition of proteasome was weak (IC50S for SucLLVY-MCA- and ZLLL-MCA-degrading activities were 120 and 110 microM, respectively). Thus, while calpain was inhibited by similar concentrations of ZLLal and ZLLLal, the inhibitory potencies of ZLLLal against the ZLLL-MCA- and Suc-LLVY-MCA-degrading activities in proteasome were 1,100 and 140 times stronger than those of ZLLal, respectively. To evaluate the effectiveness of these inhibitors on intracellular proteasome, the induction of neurite outgrowth in PC12 cells caused by proteasome inhibition was examined. ZLLLal and ZLLal initiated neurite outgrowth with optimal concentrations of 20 nM and 10 microM, respectively, again showing a big difference in the effective concentrations for the proteasome inhibition as in vitro. As for the effect on intracellular calpain, the concentration of ZLLLal and ZLLal required for the inhibition of the autolytic activation of calpain in rabbit erythrocytes were 100 and 100 microM or more, respectively. The almost equal inhibitory potencies of ZLLLal and ZLLal were in agreement with the inhibition of calpain in vitro. These differential effects of inhibitors against calpain and proteasome are potentially useful for identifying the functions of calpain and proteasome in cell physiology and pathology.

[Hepatic veno-occlusive disease associated with ingestion of Senecio tephrosioides]

A case of hepatic veno-occlusive disease (HVOD) in a 38 year-old woman is reported. She had occasionally consumed "Huamanrripa" (Senecio tephrosioides) as a cough remedy for many years. She was hospitalized because she had presented abdominal pain, jaundice and anasarca during 10 weeks. The histological studies of hepatic biopsy showed pronounced congestion to centrilobulillar predominance, focus of necrosis and a reversed lobulation pattern in some areas. In the next 13 months she was hospitalized four times due to complications of portal hypertension. This is the first reported case of HVOD associated with S tephrosioides ingestion. It is very probable that this plant used in peruvian traditional medicine contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, hepatic and nephrotoxic substances that are present in other species of Senecio genus. Due to present popularity of alternative medicine, an increment in HVOD incidence is expected.

LPS inhibits the intracellular growth of Legionella pneumophila in thioglycolate elicited murine peritoneal macrophages by iron-dependent, tryptophan-independent, oxygen-independent, and arginine-independent mechanisms

Thioglycolate-elicited murine macrophages from genetically susceptible A/J mice activated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and infected with Legionella pneumophila in vitro evince marked inhibition of intracellular growth of this bacterium. The mechanism of inhibition by LPS-activated macrophages in terms of replication of this intracellular pathogen is unclear. LPS activation of murine macrophages induced a downshift in transferrin receptor (TfR) expression and reduction in cellular iron content, and this was correlated with augmented intracellular growth of Legionella in the cells. When LPS-stimulated macrophages were first saturated with iron, partial reversion of L. pneumophila growth restriction was observed. However, an excess of exogenous L-tryptophan (Trp) did not reverse this growth inhibition, nor did supplementation of the macrophage culture medium with both iron and Trp. The antilegionella activity of the macrophages induced by LPS activation was independent of reactive oxygen intermediates (ROI), since the scavengers catalase, superoxide dismutase, mannitol, and thiourea had no effect on growth restriction. Likewise, notwithstanding the ability of LPS-activated macrophages to synthesize reactive nitrogen intermediates (RNI), which was inhibited by L-arginine analogs NG-monomethyl-L-arginine and L-aminoguanidine), as well as by incubation in arginine-free medium, their ability to inhibit the intracellular replication of L. pneumophila was not affected. Thus, we conclude that LPS-activated macrophages inhibit the intracellular growth of L. pneumophila partially by iron-dependent, Trp-independent, and ROI- and RNI-independent mechanisms. We also suggest that additional unknown mechanisms are involved, since complete reversion was not obtained.

[A new method of high-dose intraarterial chemotherapy of the pancreas using direct hemoperfusion (DHP) under portal venous isolation (PVI)]

Surgical resection for pancreatic cancer is severely limited by the extent of the disease at the time of diagnosis. Chemotherapy has been the treatment of choice for unresectable cases. We developed a new method of intraarterial chemotherapy for pancreatic body and tail cancers using direct hemoperfusion (DHP) under portal venous isolation (PVI). Adriamycin (ADR, 3 mg/kg) was infused into the splenic arteries of mongrel dogs for 5 min after clamping off blood flow to the stomach and the duodenum. In group A (n = 5), this was simply done, and in group B (n = 5) the portal venous blood was isolated by clamping at the porta hepatis and pumped through the DHP circuit to the jugular vein for 20 min from the start of drug infusion. The peak systemic level (microgram/ml) of group B (0.78 +/- 0.03) was significantly reduced by PVI.DHP as compared to that of group A (3.49 +/- 1.15, P < 0.01). The pancreatic tissue levels (microgram/g. tissue) 30 min after drug infusion of group A (61.2 +/- 13.4) were slightly lower than those in group B (88.9 +/- 27.8), although not statistically significant. However, tissue levels of group B in the liver (27.3 +/- 9.2) and heart (1.8 +/- 0.8) were significantly lower than those of group A (liver; 52.3 +/- 18.5, heart; 4.9 +/- 0.6, P < 0.05). In conclusion, PVI.DHP achieved a significant reduction in systemic drug exposure during intraarterial chemotherapy. Therefore, we consider that this system will allow dose escalation of ADR during intraarterial chemotherapy for pancreatic body and tail cancers.

Changes of albumin concentrations in the first morning urine according to age and sex in 2990 healthy children and adults

This study was performed to clarify the changes in urinary albumin excretion according to age and sex in healthy subjects, for the appropriate judgment of microalbuminuria in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). Concentrations of albumin in the first morning urine from 2990 healthy individuals (1713 males, 1277 females) aged from 6 to 39 years were measured by turbidimetry immunoassay. Reference values of the concentrations for each age group were obtained from the 95% confidence limits from the distribution simulated by the chi 2-test (k = 1). Reference values were 1.3-2.2 mg/dl in children aged 6-11 years. Values for females increased significantly from 22 mg/dl at age 11 years to 3.9 mg/dl at age 12 years (P < 0.0001) and those of males increased gradually from 1.7 mg/dl at age 11 years to 3.9 mg/dl at age 16 years. There were significant differences between males and females at the ages of 12 (P < 0.0001), 13 (P < 0.0001), and 14 (P < 0.0007). After 17 years, the values decreased from 3.9 mg/dl to 3.3 mg/dl in females, and to 2.9 mg/dl in males. We conclude that reference values of urinary albumin excretion change according to age and sex, which should be taken into consideration in the assessment of diabetic nephropathy in IDDM.

[Effect of combined use of CR1505 with UFT for the tumor growth of the subcutaneously transplanted pancreatic cancer in the Syrian golden hamsters]

We studied on the effect of combined use of CR1505 with UFT for the subcutaneously transplanted pancreatic cancer induced by BOP (N-nitrosobis (2-oxopropyl) amine) in the Syrian golden hamsters. The tumor growth in the group treated with both CR1505 and UFT was significantly inhibited compared with that in the group treated with only CR1505 or UFT. Labelling index judged by BrdU immunohistochemistry in the group with the combined use was significantly lower than that in the group with the single use. The differences of the body weights and blood analysis were not obscured in the both groups. Moreover, the concentrations of 5-FU and FT207 in tumors were not different between them. These results suggest that a new therapy of the combined use with CR1505 and UFT for the pancreatic cancer should be effective.

[Proposal for the nosocomial infection control of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)]

To determine the prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in hospital environments, quantitative isolation of MRSA from environmental and human specimens was performed. It was found that as many as 6 x 10(4) colony forming units (CFU)/100cm2 of MRSA and also methicillin-resistant coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (MRCNS) were isolated from 1) 25-100% of the bed-mattresses tested in 10 out of 11 (90%) hospitals, and also 2) bed sheets for patients, floors of patient wards, laundry, bath-room, toilet and laundry storage-room. And seven and eight palms of 20 patients were contaminated with MRCNS and MRSA, respectively, and MRCNS contamination was revealed in six of medical staffs. These results indicate that hospital environments, especially the mattresses and hospital floors are highly contaminated with MRCNS and MRSA, and sanitation and cleanliness of mattresses and floors are necessary to prevent the dissemination of both MRCNS and MRSA in hospital.

Optimal site and amount of splenic tissue for autotransplantation

Clinical and basic studies have documented a high susceptibility to pneumococcal infection in asplenic humans and animals. It has been suggested that autotransplantation of splenic tissue might be a method of providing host resistance when total splenectomy is necessary. However, the effect of splenic autograft has remained controversial. This study was performed to evaluate the most effective site and amount of splenic autograft using rats. Rats were divided into five groups for the purpose of determining the site of splenic autotransplantation: splenectomy, sham operation, implantation into the omental pouch, intraperitoneal implantation, and intramuscular implantation. For determining the amount for autotransplantation, the rats were divided into seven groups: splenectomy, sham operation, and implantations of 25, 50, 100, 200, or 300 mg of splenic tissue. All animals were challenged with Streptococcus pneumoniae type 6, 16 weeks after surgery. Howell-Jolly bodies appeared postsplenectomy, but disappeared in the implanted rats 16 weeks after the operation. Histologically, the implanted tissue was indistinguishable from that of a normal spleen. Pneumococcal clearance from the bloodstream and survival rate were significantly higher in rats implanted in the omental pouch as compared with splenectomized rats. Intraperitoneal and intramuscular implanted rats did not show a significant difference from the splenectomized rats. More than 50% of splenic tissue for autograft showed a significant increase in pneumococcal clearance and survival rate as compared with that of splenectomized rats. It was suggested that the most effective site of autotransplantation is the omental pouch and approximately 50% of the whole spleen would be necessary for prevention from sepsis.

[Chronic lymphocytic leukemia diagnosed after corticosteroid therapy for Evans syndrome]

A 59-year-old woman was admitted in February 1991, because of abdominal distension. On admission, she had splenomegaly, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, and idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. Evans syndrome had been diagnosed and daily prednisolone therapy had been performed. After this therapy, a rapid increase of lymphocytes was observed accompanied with contraction of spleen. The monoclonal proliferation of B-lymphocytes and rearrangement of JH and J kappa gene were detected and chronic lymphocytic leukemia was diagnosed. With reduction of prednisolone, the lymphocyte counts decreased and the size of the spleen returned to the previous state. It is suspected that the cause of rapid lymphocytosis in this case was due to the redistribution of lymphocytes from the spleen to the peripheral blood.

Formation of contacts between mast cells and sympathetic neurons in vitro

Functional interactions between mast cells and peripheral nerves may occur at sites of association seen in vivo. To study the interactions, we developed a tissue culture model of murine sympathetic neurons co-cultured with rat basophilic leukaemia (RBL-2H3) cells (homologues of mucosal mast cells) or rat peritoneal mast cells. In co-cultures of up to 3 days, light microscopy identified neurite contacts with peritoneal mast cells or RBL-2H3 cells, but not with glial cells or fibroblasts. Electron microscopy confirmed membrane-membrane contact between neurites and RBL-2H3 cells. Time-lapse analysis of interactions between neurons and RBL-2H3 cells showed that 60-100% of the cells in a given field acquired neurite contact within 17 h. In matching control studies, there was no increase in the frequency of neurite contact with cells of the rat plasmacytoma line (YB2/0): these were not selected as targets, and contacts were broken if formed. Time-lapse records of the derivation of neurites from their path suggested a neurotropic effect of mast cells, with neurite contact ensuing when the intervening distance was less than 36 +/- 4 microns. Once formed, contacts were invariably maintained throughout the period of examination (up to 72 h), in contrast to YB2/O or fibroblast contacts. We conclude that neurons selectively form and maintain connections with cells representative of rat connective tissue-type and mucosal mast cells in vitro. Similar interactions in vivo could promote nerve/mast cell contacts, which may allow bidirectional communication between the nervous and immune systems.

Survey of Hanganutziu and Deicher antibodies in operated patients

The appearance of Hanganutziu and Deicher (HD) antibody in the sera of patients suffering from various diseases, including malignancies of some organs and liver disorders, was investigated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using N-glycolylneuraminyl-lactosylceramide (HD3) and 4-O-acetyl-HD3 as the antigenic molecules. More than 25% of sera from patients suffering from malignancies, cholelithiasis and liver cirrhosis had HD antibody, whereas none of 41 sera from healthy persons had HD antibody. The percentage of HD antibody-positive patients was similar in stages I, II and III of gastric cancer and recurrence cases. Antibody titers of the positive patients in each stage were also not different from those in each other stage. These results indicated that HD antigenic expression on cancerous tissue is not dependent on the cancerous malignancy. The HD antibody level was elevated after surgical removal of cancerous tissues in 5 of 6 patients examined, indicating that tumor growth absorbed the serum antibody. Serum antibody against 4-O-acetyl-HD3 was detected independently of HD3 antibody in some cases; however, in most cases, correlation between the two antibody titers was observed.

[Knee synovitis in a rheumatoid patient with separated joint cavity]

A 40-year-old female patient with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis of 10 years duration. She had performed a total knee replacement of her left knee. At surgery the suprapatellar pouch was found to be separate from the rest of the knee joint, where direct access to the articular collagenous tissue remained. The suprapatellar pouch, presumable separate from the knee cavity since birth, was free of disease. The rest of the knee joint had gross and histopathological evidence of severe rheumatoid synovitis. The sparing of this suprapatellar pouch by rheumatoid disease is not easily explained, but the finding of this case suggests that synovium and articular collagenous tissues are requisites of chronic rheumatoid arthritis.

The range of albumin concentrations in the single-void first morning urine of 1090 healthy young children

To predict microalbuminuria easily in the diabetic outpatient clinic, we determined the range of albumin concentrations in the single-void first morning urine in 1090 healthy subjects of age 6-11 by the modified turbidimetry immunoassay (TIA) method, which uses 96-well microplates and a microplate reader to perform the assay quickly and conveniently. As the correlation coefficient of albumin concentration by the TIA uncorrected for creatinine versus corrected for creatinine was r = 0.79 (P less than 0.005), the values uncorrected for creatinine were used. When the distribution of values from 1090 healthy young children was simulated by using the chi-square test (k = 1), the 95% confidence interval was 0-18 micrograms/ml.

Isolation and characterization of lung mast cells from rats with bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis

To study the nature and extent of mast cell heterogeneity within a single species, we have developed methodologies to isolate rat lung mast cells (LMC) and have compared these to peritoneal mast cells (PMC) and intestinal mucosal mast cells (IMMC). In normal and athymic nude (rnu/rnu) rats, a single intratracheal administration of bleomycin (5 U/kg) leads to pulmonary fibrosis accompanied by parenchymal hyperplasia of mast cells that are histochemically like PMC rather than IMMC. Using collagenase digestion of fibrotic rat lungs (30-80 days after bleomycin treatment), we recovered an average of 58.1 x 10(6) viable cells per rat, containing 2.5% mast cells. Control experiments in which PMC were subjected to the isolation procedure used for LMC showed that there was no qualitative effect on PMC, but that a reduction of 26-60% in responsiveness to secretagogues occurred. Isolated LMC secreted histamine in response to 48/80, A23187, substance P, VIP and somatostatin and bradykinin, but at lower levels than PMC. The anti-allergic compound theophylline, which does not inhibit antigen-induced histamine secretion by IMMC, was effective against both LMC and PMC. Taken together, the thymus independence of pulmonary mast cell hyperplasia, the histochemical characteristics and the responsiveness to secretagogues and anti-allergic compounds indicate that the majority of dispersed LMC are similar to PMC rather than to IMMC. Whether LMC should be considered analogous to PMC or, because of their size, histamine content and responsiveness to many secretagogues, intermediate between PMC and IMMC, remains to be determined through additional studies.

Influence of dietary cis and trans fats on DMH-induced colon tumors, steroid excretion, and eicosanoid production in rats prone to colon cancer

The effect of geometrical isomerism of dietary fats on colon tumorigenesis was studied in male and female rats of a strain prone to colon cancer (Wistar-Furth-Osaka). The rats were fed purified diets containing either partially hydrogenated corn oil (trans fat) or high-oleic safflower (cis fat) at the 5% level for one week and received a single oral dose of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine. The difference in the fatty acid composition of dietary fats was confined solely to the geometry of octadecenoate. An appropriate level of linoleic acid (2% of total energy) was supplied. After about 60 weeks, neither fat-type nor sex-dependent differences in the incidence of colon and small intestinal tumors was observed. The fecal excretion of neutral but not acidic steroids was higher in male rats fed the trans fat than in those fed the cis fat, but the composition remained almost unchanged. Aortic production of prostacyclin and the plasma concentration of thromboxane B2 were not influenced by dietary fats, although these were significantly higher in females, irregardless of the fat source. Thus, trans fat behaved much like the cis fat in various parameters, except for steroid excretion.