Association between reactive oxygen species production in neutrophils and liver fibrosis in the general population

Fibrosis, induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in neutrophils, has harmful effects on the liver and various other organs. However, little is known about the association between liver fibrosis and ROS levels in neutrophils in the general population. This large-scale epidemiological study aimed to determine the association between liver fibrosis and neutrophil-generated ROS levels according to age and sex in the general population. This cross-sectional study included 1,000 participants from a district health promotion project. Participants were grouped based on sex (male; female) and age (young, <65 years; old, ≥65 years). The four groups were as follows: male, young (n = 289); male, old (n = 100); female, young (n = 425); and female, old (n = 186). Liver fibrosis was assessed using the fibrosis 4 (FIB-4) index, aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI), and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) fibrosis score (NFS). Basal and stimulated ROS were considered in the analysis. Multiple linear analyses showed (1) significant positive correlations between all liver fibrosis scores and basal ROS in the young groups, and (2) significant negative correlations between NFS and stimulated ROS in females. Preventing liver fibrosis through neutrophil-related immune system enhancement may avert the development of lifestyle-related diseases and infections.

Influence of gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection on serum opsonic activity measured by chemiluminescence

This study aimed to elucidate whether changes in serum opsonic activity measured by lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence and luminol-dependent chemiluminescence are useful for estimating physical stress during the perioperative period of gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection. Serum opsonic activity in the peripheral blood of 87 patients was examined in the morning of the day of endoscopic submucosal dissection, the next day, and at 4 days after endoscopic submucosal dissection. Peak height and area under the curve for lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence were 106.1 ± 22.7% and 102.0 ± 24.7% on the day of endoscopic submucosal dissection, which increased significantly to 113.6 ± 29.4% and 111.0 ± 29.1% on the next day (both p<0.01), and 112.4 ± 27.0% and 110.0 ± 28.1% at 4 days after endoscopic submucosal dissection (both p<0.01), respectively. In contrast, significant changes were not observed in peak height and area under the curve for luminol-dependent chemiluminescence during the perioperative period of endoscopic submucosal dissection. This difference suggests that serum opsonic activity during the perioperative period of gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection is associated with the production of substances with lower oxidizing potential. (The study of changes in neutrophil function and physical stress during the perioperative period of endoscopic operation: UMIN000034514)

Relationship between self-reported sleep quality and metabolic syndrome in general population

BACKGROUND

To examine an association between self-reported sleep quality determined by Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) and metabolic syndrome.

METHODS

This study was designed as cross-sectional study. Participants were 1481 adults aged 20 years and above from general population (549 males and 932 females). We assessed the global sleep quality by PSQI. PSQI consists of 7 elements, i.e. subjective sleep quality, sleep latency (prolonged sleep onset time), sleep duration, habitual sleep efficiency (proportion of hours slept to hours spent in bed), sleep disturbance (interruption of sleep), use of sleep medication and daytime dysfunction (trouble staying awake while engaging in social activity). Any participants with score of 6 or more are diagnosed to have sleep disorder. We also assessed the above 7 elements, which consisted of a four-grade system (i.e. 0, 1, 2, 3). Metabolic syndrome consisted of abdominal obesity, hypertension, impaired glucose tolerance and dyslipidemia. Diagnosis of metabolic syndrome was done when the participants have abdominal obesity and meet two or more other components. All analyses were adjusted by age, drinking habit, smoking habit, working hours, exercise habit and depression.

RESULTS

Fifty-two male participants (9.5%) and 133 female (14.3%) scored 6 or more points in global PSQI score. The global PSQI score, sleep latency score and sleep disturbance score of participants with metabolic syndrome were higher level than those without the condition (p < 0.001, p = 0.009, p = 0.025 for male and p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.002 for females, respectively). The odds ratio of metabolic syndrome among participants with PSQI score of 6 or more points were 2.37 (95% confidence interval: 1.23-4.58) for males and 2.71 (1.45-5.07) for females in contrast to those with 5 or less points. The odds ratio of metabolic syndrome with sleep latency score of 2 was 2.65 (1.14-6.15) for male and 3.82 (1.81-8.09) for females in contrast with those of 0. The odds ratio of metabolic syndrome with sleep disturbance score of 1 was 1.76 (1.09-2.86) for males and 2.43 (1.26-4.69) for females in contrast with those of 0.

CONCLUSIONS

Global PSQI score and its components (especially, sleep latency and sleep disturbance) were associated with metabolic syndrome.

Mouthguard and sports drinks on tooth surface pH

The influence of sports drinks and mouthguards on the pH level of tooth surface was examined. A custom-made mouthguard was fabricated for each subject. The pH level was measured by electric pH meter with sensitivity of 0.01 up to 30 min. Sports drinks (pH=3.75) containing 9.4% sugar were used in this study. Measurements were performed on a cohort of 23 female subjects without a mouthguard (control), wearing a mouthguard only (MG), wearing a mouthguard after 30 ml sports drink intake (SD+MG), wearing a mouthguard during a 5-min jogging exercise (MG+EX) and wearing a mouthguard during jogging after sports drink intake (SD+MG+EX). For 7 male subjects, the same measurements were performed while a sports drink was taken over the mouthguard (MG+SD, MD+EX+SD). MG showed statistically higher pH level than control (p<0.05). SD+MG exhibited a significant decrease in pH level, and SD+MG+EX exhibited even below the critical level of pH 5.5 in some subjects. When sports drinks were taken over the mouthguard, no significant differences in pH level were observed among the different conditions.Within the limitations of this study, it was suggested that wearing a mouthguard during exercise is in itself not a possible risk factor for dental caries, while wearing a mouthguard after consuming sports drinks is.

Cell proliferation and lipid formation in hamster sebaceous gland cells

BACKGROUND

The development of sebocytes and lipogenesis are known to be dependent on androgens. However, it is not fully understood whether growth factors are involved in the regulation of cell proliferation and lipid formation in sebaceous glands.

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to evaluate the effect of growth factors such as epidermal growth factor (EGF), transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-alpha), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) on cell proliferation and lipogenesis in cultured hamster sebocytes.

METHODS

Cell proliferation and intracellular lipid accumulation in these hamster sebocytes treated with growth factors were examined.

RESULTS

EGF, TGF-alpha and bFGF augmented the proliferation of hamster sebocytes for 8 days in a time- and dose-dependent manner. However, KGF had no effect on their proliferation. Moreover, the accumulation of intracellular lipids consisting mainly of triglycerides was suppressed in EGF-, TGF-alpha-, bFGF- and KGF-treated hamster sebocytes.

CONCLUSION

EGF, TGF-alpha and bFGF, but not KGF, have mitogenic activity on hamster sebocytes, and all these growth factors act as antilipogenic factors. Moreover, it is likely that the formation of intracellular lipid droplets is independent of cell proliferation in hamster sebocytes.

Potential immunosuppressive and antiinflammatory activities of Malaysian medicinal plants characterized by reduced cell surface expression of cell adhesion molecules

In the search for agents effective against immune-mediated disorders and inflammation, we have screened Malaysian medicinal plants for the ability to inhibit the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) on the surface of murine endothelial cells (F-2), and mouse myeloid leukaemia cells (M1), respectively. Of 41 kinds (29 species, 24 genera, 16 families) of Malaysian plants tested, 10 and 19 plant samples significantly downregulated the expression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1, respectively. Bioassay-directed fractionation of an extract prepared from the bark of Goniothalamus andersonii showed that its ingredients, goniothalamin (1) and goniodiol (2) inhibited the cell surface expression of both ICAM-1 and VCAM-1. The present results suggest that Malaysian medicinal plants may be abundant natural resources for immunosuppressive and antiinflammatory substances.

Epidermal growth factor and 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 suppress lipogenesis in hamster sebaceous gland cells in vitro

We have previously reported the establishment of a culture system of hamster auricular sebocytes. Although their morphologic and biochemical properties are very similar to those of human sebocytes, the regulation of lipogenesis is not clear. Therefore, we investigated the effect of epidermal growth factor, all-trans retinoic acid, 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, and androgens such as testosterone and 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone on lipogenesis in cultured hamster sebocytes. Intracellular lipid droplets detected with Oil-Red-O staining were observed in 5 d cultures and increased in a time-dependent manner; 40.7% +/- 1.11% of 2 wk cultured cells tested lipid-positive by flow cytometric analysis. When the hamster sebocytes were cultured in the presence of epidermal growth factor, all-trans retinoic acid, or 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, the intracellular lipid droplets were diminished by all-trans retinoic acid and epidermal growth factor, and slightly by 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. The intracellular lipid droplets consisted mainly of triglycerides (71.8%) and, as minor components, cholesterol (18.0%), wax esters (3.6%), and free fatty acids (6.6%). Epidermal growth factor and all-trans retinoic acid decreased the intracellular accumulation of triglycerides (92.6% and 96.1% inhibition, respectively) and free fatty acids (54.3% and 62.6% inhibition, respectively) in the sebocytes. In addition, 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 decreased the triglyceride level (34.3% inhibition), but augmented the accumulation of wax esters (30% increase). There was no difference in the level of cholesterol as a result of these treatments, however. In contrast, 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone augmented the formation of intracellular lipid droplets along with an increase in the accumulation of triglycerides in hamster sebocytes. Our findings that regulation of lipogenesis by all-trans retinoic acid and androgen in hamster sebocytes is identical to regulation in humans suggest that hamster sebocytes are useful for the elucidation of sebaceous function at the cellular level. Furthermore, this is the first evidence that epidermal growth factor and 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 may act as suppressors in the regulation of lipogenesis in hamster sebocytes in vitro.

Capsanthone 3,6-epoxide, a new carotenoid from the fruits of the red paprika Capsicum annuum L

The structure of a new carotenoid, isolated from the fruits of the red tomato-shaped paprika Capsicum annuum L., was elucidated to be (3S,5R,6S,5'R)-3,6-epoxy-5,6-dihydro-5-hydroxy-beta,kappa-carotene-3',6'-dione by spectroscopic analyses, including fast atom bombardment collision-induced dissociation-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (FAB CID-MS/MS) and was designated capsanthone 3,6-epoxide. Capsanthone 3,6-epoxide is assumed to be an oxidative metabolite of capsanthin 3,6-epoxide in paprika.

Remineralization across the resin-dentin interface: in vivo evaluation with nanoindentation measurements, EDS, and SEM

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the in vivo remineralization of the possible non-resin infiltrated hybridoid layer between the hybrid layer and the subjacent dentin substrate using nanoindentation, energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy microanalyses (EDS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) technologies.

METHOD AND MATERIALS

Twenty Class V cavities were placed in healthy adult monkey teeth. Each cavity was total etched with 37% phosphoric acid for 60 seconds, rinsed, and air dispersed, and SA-Primer was applied to the collagen layer. Cavities were divided into two groups: In group 1, Protect Liner (low-viscosity resin) and Clearfil AP-X (resin composite) were placed per manufacturer's directions, and no bonding agent was placed on the acid-etched interface. In group 2, Clearfil Photobond (bonding agent) was applied, and Protect Liner and Clearfil AP-X were placed as in group 1. Teeth were observed at 7 days (control) and 6 months by nanoindentation, EDS, and SEM.

RESULTS

Six-month data showed an increased nanohardness in areas 5 pm adjacent to the demineralized or partially demineralized dentin interface. Following treatment with a conventional adhesive system on the acid-etched interface (group 2), there were increased nanohardness and calcium EDS measurements in the substrate just below the resin-dentin impregnated layer.

CONCLUSION

Our 6-month in vivo nanoindentation and EDS data demonstrate that the non-resin infiltrated zone becomes remineralized following adhesive resin treatment.

Structures of five new carotenoids from the oyster Crassostrea gigas

Five new minor carotenoids, 1-5, were isolated from the oyster Crassostrea gigas. The structure of 1 was determined to be (3S,5R,6R,6'S)-3,5,6'-trihydroxy-3'-oxo-6,7-didehydro-5,6-dihydro-10,11,20-trinor-beta,epsilon-caroten-19',11'-olide 3-acetate by detailed analyses of NMR and CD data. The structures of the other carotenoids, 2-5, were also determined in a similar manner. In the FAB-MS/MS of 2-4, having the 5-hydroxy-3,6-epoxy-5,6-dihydro-beta-carotene moiety, the characteristic product ions resulting from the sequential cleavage of C-C bonds in the polyene chain were observed.

Isolation of a series of apocarotenoids from the fruits of the red paprika Capsicum annuum L

Eleven apocarotenoids (1-11) including five new compounds, 4, 6, 9, 10 and 11, were isolated from the fruits of the red paprika Capsicum annuum L. The structures of new apocarotenoids were determined to be apo-14'-zeaxanthinal (4), apo-13-zeaxanthinone (6), apo-12'-capsorubinal (9), apo-8'-capsorubinal (10), and 9,9'-diapo-10,9'-retro-carotene-9,9'-dione (11) by spectroscopic analysis. The other six known apocarotenoids were identified to be apo-8'-zeaxanthinal (1), apo-10'-zeaxanthinal (2), apo-12'-zeaxanthinal (3), apo-15-zeaxanthinal (5), apo-11-zeaxanthinal (7), and apo-9-zeaxanthinone (8) which have not been previously found in paprika. These apocarotenoids were assumed to be oxidative cleavage products of C(40) carotenoid such as capsanthin in paprika.

Synthesis and antitumor activities of novel 5-deazaflavin-sialic acid conjugate molecules

6-Nitro-5-deazaflavin derivatives bearing O-(methyl 5-acetamido-4,7,8,9-tetra-O-acetyl-3,5-dideoxy-D-glycero-alpha- and beta-D-galacto-non-2-ulopyranosylonate)alkyl group (sialosylalkyl group) at N(3) or N(10) and 8-amino-5-deazaflavin substituted with the sialosylalkyl group at the amino group were synthesized and their physicochemical properties as well as antitumor effects on KB and L1210 cells have been investigated. The configurations of the glycosides were determined by 1H NMR and rate of hydrolysis of the glycosidic bond. It has been found that these conjugate molecules show significant antitumor activities. Combination of an 8-amino-5-deazaflavin with the sialosylalkyl group have been found to give rise to significant increase in antitumor activities of the compound. Antitumor effects of 6-nitro-5-deazaflavin-sialic acid conjugate molecules were similar or rather weak in comparison with those of the 6-nitro-5-deazaflavin derivatives without sialosylalkyl group.

[Prediction of improvement of left ventricular wall motion in patients with myocardial infarction--by using 99mTc-tetrofosmin and 123I-BMIPP myocardial SPECT at subacute phase]

The relationship between myocardial perfusion, fatty acid metabolism, and cardiac functional recovery were investigated by using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with 99mTc-1,2-bis[bis(2-ethoxyethyl)phosphino]ethane (tetrofosmin: TF) and lodine-123-beta-methyl-p-iodophenyl-pentadecanoic acid (BMIPP) in patients with myocardial infarction. We examined myocardial SPECT in 18 patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) underwent successful reperfusion therapy within 24 hours from onset. TF myocardial SPECT (early and delayed images) and BMIPP (early image) SPECT were performed 2 weeks after onset of AMI, and regional TF and BMIPP defect scores of the infarct area were scored visually by a 4-point system. There was a significant correlation between the defect score of the TF delayed image, BMIPP image and SD/chord (indicator of regional wall motion abnormalities on left ventriculograms) at subacute phase (TF: r = -0.592, p = 0.011, BMIPP: r = -0.643, p = 0.004). Good correlations were also found between the defect score of the TF delayed image, the BMIPP image and the SD/chord at chronic phase (TF: r = -0.491, p = 0.037, BMIPP: r = -0.599, p = 0.007). Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between the improvement of SD/chord (acute to chronic phase) and the degree of reverse redistribution score of TF (r = 0.735, p = 0.022), and discordance score between TF and BMIPP (r = 0.691, p = 0.037). In conclusion, resting BMIPP and TF myocardial SPECT performed in patients with subacute phase AMI were shown to be useful in predicting improvement of left ventricular function at chronic phase.

Biological basis for clinical success: pulp protection and the tooth-restoration interface

This article provides biological and technological information that strengthens clinicians' understanding of cohesive hybridization and pulp therapy in order to support their routine use of bonding and resin systems. Utilizing cohesive systems, clinicians should experience several advantages over traditional water-soluble base and liner systems. When properly applied, cohesive hybridization of vital dentin prevents immediate postoperative hypersensitivity under all restorations and completely seals the entire tooth-restoration interface, which provides a reduction in recurrent caries.

Structural study of PLGA [copoly (DL-lactic/glycolic acid)], a biodegradable polymer for parenteral sustained release preparations, by tandem mass spectrometry

A copoly (DL-lactic/glycolic acid) (PLGA), with a weight-average molecular weight of about 8400, has been characterized using fast atom bombardment (FAB)-tandem mass spectrometry in order to determine the sequence. Because of the large molecular size, PLGA was partially hydrolyzed and the terminal hydroxyl groups in the resulting oligomer mixture acetylated as the indicator. The FAB spectrum of this sample showed a complex ion signal pattern containing monomer to octamer. Diagnostic product ions containing useful information for sequence determination were observed in collision-induced dissociation-MS/MS and MS/MS/MS of these oligomer ions. The results of analysis for dimers through pentamers showed that they have random sequences of lactic and glycolic acid, suggesting that the whole structure of PLGA also has a random sequence.

Biocompatibility of Clearfil Liner Bond 2 and Clearfil AP-X system on nonexposed and exposed primate teeth

OBJECTIVE

Recent studies have demonstrated that acid etching of vital dentin and pulpal tissue does not retard pulpal healing, odontoblastoid cell differentiation, or dentinal bridge formation when the pulp is capped with adhesive resins. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the pulpal response in nonexposed and exposed monkey pulps to treatment with the Clearfil Liner Bond 2 and Clearfil AP-X system.

METHOD AND MATERIALS

Class V and Class I cavities in nonexposed and exposed pulps were observed at 7 or 8, 27, and 97 days.

RESULTS

There were no differences in pulpal inflammation between the Clearfil Liner Bond 2/Clearfil AP-X specimens and calcium hydroxide controls in either Class V or Class I cavities at the various time periods.

CONCLUSION

Clearfil Liner Bond 2 and Clearfil AP-X system is not toxic to either nonexposed or exposed pulpal tissues when placed according to manufacturer's directions.

Synthesis and evaluation of nitro 5-deazaflavin-pyrrolecarboxamide(s) hybrid molecules as novel DNA targeted bioreductive antitumor agents

A series of 6-nitro-5-deazaflavins bearing at N(3) or N(10) position the pyrrolecarboxamide(s) group as DNA minor groove binder has been synthesized. These hybrid molecules show similar redox properties to those of 6-nitro-5-deazaflavins with no pyrrolecarboxamide(s) group, suggesting that they generate stable one- and two-electron reduction product(s). Electrolytic reductions of the hybrid molecules were carried out at a controlled potential under anaerobic conditions in the presence of plasmid pBR322 DNA. Significant conversions of the supercoiled circular pBR322 DNA (form I) to the open circular DNA (form II) have been found by treatment with the reductively activated 6-nitro-5-deazaflavin derivatives. Their DNA damaging effects have been found to be enhanced as the number of pyrrolecarboxamide group as the DNA binder increases. Antitumor activities of the hybrid molecules towards KB and L1210 cells were evaluated in vitro. It has been found that the antitumor effects of the compounds on KB cells slightly change and those on L1210 cells decrease as the number of the pyrrolecarboxamide group increases. These results reveal that the combination of 6-nitro-5-deazaflavin molecule with the pyrrolecarboxamide(s) group increase the DNA binding properties of the compounds, giving rise to promoted DNA damaging effects, and also suggest that the combination would affect the capacity of the compounds to act as the substrate for intracellular reductases and/or the cellular uptake of the compounds.

Biocompatibility of primer, adhesive and resin composite systems on non-exposed and exposed pulps of non-human primate teeth

PURPOSE

To evaluate the histologic response of 332 non-exposed and 127 exposed monkey pulps applying nine adhesive systems.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Class V and Class I cavities were used in non-exposed and exposed monkey pulps at the three ISO usage time intervals.

RESULTS

There were no histologic differences in pulp responses among the nine adhesive systems used in either Class V and/or Class I cavities when compared to pulp responses of Ca(OH)2 controls at the ISO time intervals. The nine adhesive systems and resin composites are non-toxic to either non-exposed or exposed pulps, being biologically compatible to pulp tissues when placed on mechanical pulp exposures following hemorrhage control with a 2.5% NaOCl and per manufacturers' directions. It is imperative that clinicians understand the biological importance of hemorrhage control as well as the technique sensitivity of hydrophilic primers in order to optimize the efficacy of adhesives for clinical success against microleakage of bacterial factors.

[Comparative study of mRNA expression of E-cadherin and collagenase IV in early and advanced cancers]

During the process of invasion, tumor cells must detach from the primary neoplasm and degrade host stroma. E-cadherin is responsible for the cell-cell adhesion and collagenase IV is the one of the matrix metalloproteinases. We determined whether the levels of mRNA for E-cadherin and collagenase IV were differently expressed within 12 cases of early and 13 cases of advanced gastric cancers using a rapid calorimetric in situ hybridization assay for mRNA. In 6 of 12 early cancers, we found a decreased expression of E-cadherin mRNA in the invasion edge compared to the main tumor. In advanced gastric cancers, 3 out of 13 cancers also exhibited this finding. Higher expression of the collagenase IV at the invasion edge of the tumor compared to the main tumor was observed in half of the early and advanced gastric cancer cases. Inverse expression levels of E-cadherin and collagenase IV mRNA were observed in 6 of 12 early cancers. However, only one of 13 advanced cancer cases expressed the same finding.

Weak expression of blood type B antigen in kidney tissue and successful B-incompatible kidney transplantation without special treatments

Much attention has been paid to only natural antibody titer of the recipients in ABO-incompatible kidney transplantation. In this study, we looked at the distribution of blood type antigens in the kidney tissue. Thirty-seven biopsy specimens from patients with nephritis or transplanted kidneys were recruited. Fifteen were type A, 14 were type B, and 8 were type AB. Kidney tissues were stained with anti-A or anti-B antibody using immunohistological staining. The stained dots in each section were regarded as the area and were measured by image analyzer. B antigen was expressed very weakly both in the glomeruli and in interstitium as compared with A antigen. In type AB, B antigen was less expressed than A antigen. Based on these results, we performed B-incompatible kidney transplantation. No rejection was seen without preoperative depletion of natural antibody and splenectomy. These results may suggest that type B-incompatible kidney transplantation might possibly be performed without preoperative depletion of natural antibodies.

Pravastatin prevents the progression of accelerated coronary artery disease after heart transplantation in a rabbit model

This study was designed to investigate the effects of pravastatin (Pr) on accelerated coronary arteriosclerosis in transplanted hearts. The rabbit hearts were transplanted to the recipients' neck heterotopically, and received FK506. The rabbits in group 1 were fed a normal diet (ND), and cholesterol-rich diet (CD) in group 2 and 3. Pr (10 mg/kg) was given to group 3. They were sacrificed at 4 weeks and the severity of myocardial rejection and arterio-sclerosis was assessed and scored histologically. The serum lipid levels were significantly elevated by a CD. However, addition of Pr had no effect on the levels of LDL and total cholesterol (TC). There was no significant difference in myocardial rejection in each group. Transplanted hearts in group 2 showed more severe arteriosclerotic lesions than those in group 1. Pr treatment in group 3 diminished the severity of coronary arteriosclerosis. Pr may prevent the accelerated coronary arteriosclerosis after heart transplantation without significant changes in TC and LDL.

Fungal metabolites. XIX. Structural elucidation of channel-forming peptides, trichorovins-I-XIV, from the fungus Trichoderma viride

Trichorovins (TV)-I-XIV are new antibiotic peptides obtained from conidia of the fungus Trichoderma viride. The peptide mixture of TVs was repeatedly fractionated by preparative HPLC until individual TVs showed a single peak on their analytical HPLC chromatograms. Nevertheless, FAB-MS or NMR indicated that each of TVs-I-XIV was composed of at least two components. We attempted to elucidate their structures within the fractions by electrospray ionization (ESI)-MS, FAB-MS, FAB-MS/MS and NMR. TVs generally have molecular weights of approximately 1100-1200 Da, and are characterized by an acetylated N-terminus, the presence of an aminoalcohol, e.g. leucinol, isoleucinol or valinol, at the C-terminus, and eleven residues including three alpha-aminoisobutyric acids in the molecule. Thus, it was determined that TVs belong to the class of peptaibols.

The surgical treatment of aortic dissection in a patient with Turner's syndrome: report of a case

We report herein the successful surgical management of a 42-year-old patient with Turner's syndrome (TS) complicated by Stanford type B aortic dissection. The patient had a single entry in the proximal descending aorta with dissection extending from the entry point to the abdominal aorto-left iliac bifurcation. A patch plasty using felt reinforcement was performed through a left 4th intercostal space thoracotomy. Her postoperative course was uneventful and she has been well during the 3 years since her operation. There have been only nine reports of patients with TS complicated by aortic dissection for whom operations were performed; however, the details of surgical treatment have not been well documented. This paper reports the course of aortic dissection and the surgical methods employed in the treatment of our patient.

[Systematic diagnosis and treatment method for temporomandibular disorders--new chart for primary diagnosis and treatment]

In this study, the classification of temporomandibular disorders of Japanese Society for Temporomandibular Joint was subdivided into ten types for the purpose of connecting directly with treatment, then a new chart for primary diagnosis and treatment were expressed. Ten types, i.e. type I (masticatory muscle disorders), type II (micro traumatic synovitis), type IIIc- (disk disorders except internal derangement; open lock, eminense click and crepitus), type IIIc+ (internal derangement; disc anterior displacement with reduction), type III L (internal derangement; disc anterior displacement without reduction, type IVo (osteoarthrosis with no TMJ symptoms), type IVp (osteoarthrosis with TMJ pain and no disc disorders), type IVc- (osteoarthrosis with crepitus, eminense click and open lock), type IVc+ (osteoarthrosis with internal derangement; disc anterior displacement with reduction), type IV L (osteoarthrosis with internal derangement; disc anterior displacement without reduction) 605 patients who visited our clinic from January 1994 to June 1994 were classified by the new chart for primary diagnosis; type I: 37 cases, type II: 142 cases, type IIIc-:56 cases, type III c+: 215 cases, type III L: 82 cases, type IVo: 8 cases, type IVp: 11 cases, type IVc-: 10 cases, type IV+: 19 cases, type IVL: 25 cases.

[A case of nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis presenting positive findings by two-dimensional echocardiography]

A 55-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital because of left hemiparesis. Brain CT and cerebral angiography demonstrated cerebral embolism due to occlusion of the sphenoidal part of the right middle cerebral artery. Two-dimensional echocardiography revealed mitral valve vegetation measuring 10 x 7 mm and slight mitral-valve regurgitation. Blood cultures were negative. She developed disseminated intravascular coagulation. Chest roentgenography and abdominal ultrasonography showed multiple liver and lung tumors, but she died before the primary lesion was detected. At autopsy, adenocarcinoma of the gall bladder was found. Friable vegetation was attached to the auricular surface of the mitral valve. Microscopic examination confirmed the diagnosis of nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis. Although echocardiography is an important tool for diagnosing nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis, few reports have described echocardiographic detection of nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis. Because vegetation of nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis is smaller than that of infective endocarditis (less than 3 mm), it is difficult for echocardiography to detect nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis. Thus, a negative examination does not exclude the possibility of nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis. To make an antemortem diagnosis of nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis, we must perform echocardiography carefully in cases of cerebral infarction with carcinoma and/or DIC.

Blood cell rheological changes during prolonged perfusion with membrane oxygenation (PPMO) using perfluorochemicals

The aim of this study was to discover the effect of the perfluorochemical FC-43 on blood cell rheology during experimental prolonged perfusion with membrane oxygenation (PPMO). Using fresh human blood from healthy donors, six experiments with FC-43 in one clinical dose of 30ml/kg, another six with a dose of 1 0ml/kg, and 16 controls were pumped for 72 hours in a perfusion system containing an oxygenator similar to an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuit. Blood trauma was analysed using the St George's Filtrometer by estimating blood cell filtrability, clogging particles and clogging rate; the latter two reflecting blood cell aggregability. At 72 hours the filtrability of red cells was reduced by over 95% and 7.0% in the FC-43 groups and controls respectively; the FC-43 groups showed significantly (p < 0.01) greater reductions during perfusion. Both FC-43 concentrations increased the rheological damage to white cells from the outset. The white cells showed a greater tendency to clog than the red cells, suggesting an increased aggregability during prolonged perfusion. The 30ml/kg FC-43 dose induced relatively more damage than the doses in the other groups. This study suggests that FC-43 increased blood cell damage during PPMO in a dose-related manner, and that FC-43 during PPMO should preferably be made less toxic if it is to be used routinely as a blood substitute for prolonged extracorporeal circulation.

[A case report of Bentall procedure for annulo-aortic ectasia associated with right coronary artery dissection]

A 30-year-old man who had annuloaortic ectasia associated with aortic insufficiency owing to marked annular dilatation was treated by replacement of the ascending aorta and aortic valve with a composite graft. It was necessary to transpose the origin of the coronary artery because of the development of dissection to right coronary ostia. We have applied the Bentall procedure with aorta coronary bypass between the right coronary artery and the aortic prosthesis with the use of saphenous vein graft. His post operative course is uneventful and engaging full work 18 month after operation. This technique is useful for the case of annuloaortic ectasia associated with difficulty coronary anastomosis such as coronary artery dissection, obstruction or dislocation.

Distribution of the neural crest cells in the heart of birds: a three dimensional analysis

The distribution of neural crest derived cells (NC) in the heart of quail-chick chimeric embryos was analyzed three-dimensionally after computer reconstruction. During the division of the truncus arteriosus into the aorta and the pulmonary trunk, ventral and dorsal columns of NC-derived cells were found in the truncal swellings. These columns were elongations from the aorticopulmonary (AP) septum. The dorsal column extended more proximally than did the ventral column. Around hatching, NC-derived cells located between the proximal aorta and the pulmonary trunk, differentiated into cartilage and connective tissue. They formed a part of the cardiac skeleton. A small number of NC-derived cells were scattered in the cusps of the arterial valves. Cells derived from the right NC were located around the aorta and the right arch arteries but not around the distal pulmonary trunk and the left arch arteries. At the proximal level, cells derived from the right NC were located in both the dorsal and ventral columns. These results suggest that the AP septum is mainly formed by NC-derived cells, right and left NC cells migrating into assigned areas in the heart. Location of two columns of NC-derived cells may support a translocation hypothesis for the AP septum during truncal division.

[An aged case of peripheral arterial obstructive disease with progressive limb necrosis]

An aged case of peripheral arterial obstructive disease with progressive limb necrosis is reported. A 70-year old man was admitted to our hospital with the complaint of numbness and rest pain on left lower limb. Thereafter, necrosis of the digital region of the upper limbs and the toe region of the lower limbs became progressively worse 3 weeks after onset. Bilateral lower limb amputations after lumbar sympathectomy and digital amputation of upper limbs after thoracic sympathectomy were performed. The histological findings of artery and vein in amputated limbs showed thromboangiitis obliterans. We conclude that Buerger's disease in the aged is rare, but does really exist.

Desmin distribution in the cardiac outflow tract of the chick embryo during aortico-pulmonary septation

The appearance and distribution of desmin, a muscle type intermediate filament, was examined in the truncus arteriosus of the chick embryonic heart during AP septation by an indirect immunofluorescence method. Prior to septation, on the 4th day of incubation, staining with antidesmin antibody was observed in the AP septum anlagen in the distal truncus. No staining with the antibody was detected in the developing tunica media of the great arteries in the distal truncus at this stage. During septation, on the 5th day of incubation, intense staining with the antidesmin antibody was observed in the cell condensation of the AP septum. In the 6-day-old embryo, the staining in the AP septum was reduced, but fluorescence by staining with the antibody was observed in the developing tunica media. No fluorescence was detected in other mesenchymal cells in the truncal swellings. Because of the time of appearance and the localization of antidesmin reactivity in the developing AP septum, it is suggested that muscle-type cells exist in the AP septum, and that these cells may perform an important function in septation.

Changes in thyrotropin binding inhibiting immunoglobulins (TBII) in sera of patients with Graves' disease at the time of relapse or exacerbation

Thyrotropin Binding Inhibiting Immunoglobulins (TBII) were measured in sera of 240 patients with Graves' disease who were followed 0-25 yr as a cross-sectioned study (21 untreated, 189 under therapy and 30 T3-suppressible and drug-discontinued patients) by using solubilized porcine thyroid TSH receptor. Assays were performed by using 50 microliter of serum. All untreated 21 patients showed positive TBII. Frequency of positive patients decreased yearly with treatment although 36% of patients remained positive after 6 yr of therapy. After that time TBII were positive in 61% of follow-up patients and in 16 positive patients who have been treated for more than 10 yr, drug therapy could not be stopped because of recurrence. TBII were positive in 6 of 30 T3-suppressible patients. As a longitudinal study changes in TBII were studied in 10 patients at the time of relapse or exacerbation. TBII increased in parallel with increases in thyroid hormone concentrations in 3 of 10 patients. Six of the others showed earlier or later TBII increases than those in thyroid hormones. One patient did not show any change in TBII, albeit thyroid hormone concentrations were found to be increased. Our observations suggest that abnormal IgGs detected as TBII in sera of patients with Graves' disease by the present method do not explain the occurrence of hyperthyroidism.