Evaluation of four computed tomography reconstruction algorithms using a coronary artery phantom

Background

Despite advancements in coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA), challenges in positive predictive value and specificity remain due to limited spatial resolution. The purpose of this experimental study was to investigate the effect of 2nd generation deep learning-based reconstruction (DLR) on the quantitative and qualitative image quality in coronary CTA.

Methods

A vessel model with stepwise non-calcified plaque was scanned using 320-detector CT. Image reconstruction was performed using four techniques: hybrid iterative reconstruction (HIR), model-based iterative reconstruction (MBIR), DLR, and 2nd generation DLR. The luminal peak CT number, contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), and edge rise slope (ERS) were quantitatively evaluated via profile curve analysis. Two observers qualitatively graded the graininess, lumen sharpness, and overall lumen visibility on the basis of the degree of confidence for the stenosis severity using a five-point scale.

Results

The image noise with HIR, MBIR, DLR, and 2nd generation DLR was 23.0, 21.0, 16.9, and 9.5 HU, respectively. The corresponding CNR (25% stenosis) was 15.5, 15.9, 22.1, and 38.3, respectively. The corresponding ERS (25% stenosis) was 203.2, 198.6, 228.9, and 262.4 HU/mm, respectively. Among the four reconstruction methods, the 2nd generation DLR achieved the significantly highest CNR and ERS values. The score of 2nd generation DLR in all evaluation points (graininess, sharpness, and overall lumen visibility) was higher than those of the other methods (overall vessel visibility score, 2.6±0.5, 3.8±0.6, 3.7±0.5, and 4.6±0.5 with HIR, MBIR, DLR, and 2nd generation DLR, respectively).

Conclusions

2nd generation DLR provided better CNR and ERS in coronary CTA than HIR, MBIR, and previous-generation DLR, leading to the highest subjective image quality in the assessment of vessel stenosis.

AMPK activation enhances osteoblast differentiation on a titanium disc via autophagy

PURPOSE

The acquisition of osseointegration during implant therapy is slower and poorer in patients with diabetes compared with healthy persons. The serum concentration of adiponectin in patients with type II diabetes is lower than that of healthy persons via the suppression of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Therefore, we hypothesized that the AMPK activation enhances bone formation around implants, resulting in the improved acquisition of osseointegration. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of AMPK activation on osteoblast differentiation and its mechanism of downstream signaling on titanium disc (Ti).

METHODS

Confluent mouse pre-osteoblasts (MC3T3-E1) cells (1 × 105 cells/well) were cultured with BMP-2 for osteoblast differentiation, in the presence or absence AICAR, an AMPK activator. We examined the effects of AMPK activation on osteoblast differentiation and the underlying mechanism on a Ti using a CCK8 assay, a luciferase assay, quantitative RT-PCR, and western blotting.

RESULTS

Although the proliferation rate of osteoblasts was not different between a Ti and a tissue culture polystyrene dish, the addition of AICAR, AMPK activator slightly enhanced osteoblast proliferation on the Ti. AICAR enhanced the BMP-2-dependent transcriptional activity on the Ti, leading to upregulation in the expression of osteogenesis-associated molecules. AICAR simultaneously upregulated the expression of autophagy-associated molecules on the Ti, especially LC3-II. AdipoRon, an adiponectin receptor type1/type2 activator activated AMPK, and upregulated osteogenesis-associated molecules on Ti.

CONCLUSIONS

AMPK activation enhances osteoblast differentiation on a Ti via autophagy, suggesting that it promotes the acquisition of osseointegration during implant therapy.

CO2 Laser for Esthetic Healing of Injuries and Surgical Wounds with Small Parenchymal Defects in Oral Soft Tissues

A number of studies have recently demonstrated the effectiveness of CO2 laser irradiation for the repair and regeneration of scar tissue from injuries or surgical wounds. However, such studies of the oral mucosa are highly limited. Previous studies using CO2 laser irradiation have indicated that two factors contribute to esthetic healing, namely, artificial scabs, which are a coagulated and carbonized blood layer formed on the wound surface, and photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) for suppressing wound scarring and promoting wound healing. This review outlines basic research and clinical studies of esthetic healing with the use of a CO2 laser for both artificial scab formation by high-intensity laser therapy and PBMT in the treatment of injuries and surgical wounds with small parenchymal defects in oral soft tissues. The results showed that the wound surface was covered by an artificial scab, enabling the accumulation of blood and the perfusion necessary for tissue regeneration and repair. Subsequent PBMT also downregulated the expression of transformation growth factor-b1, which is involved in tissue scarring, and decreased the appearance of myofibroblasts. Taken together, artificial scabs and PBMT using CO2 lasers contribute to the suppression of scarring in the tissue repair process, leading to favorable esthetic and functional outcomes of wound healing.

Reaction Mechanism and Selectivity Control of Si Compound ALE Based on Plasma Modification and F-Radical Exposure

In this work, atomic layer etching (ALE) of Si compounds using H₂ or N₂ plasma modification followed by fluorine radical exposure is discussed. It is shown that the H₂ plasma modification process promotes the selective etching of SiN, SiC, and SiCO versus SiO₂. The N₂ plasma modification, on the other hand, enables the selective etching of SiC and SiCO versus SiN and SiO₂. The origin of the etching selectivity between different Si compounds is investigated using a combination of in situ SE and FTIR supported by several ex situ analysis techniques. It is shown that the formation of a hydrogen-rich layer after plasma modification is essential to enable the ALE process. The hydrogen-rich layer can be formed due to ion and radicals of the modification plasma (H₂ plasma modification) or be a result of the reconfiguration of hydrogen that is already present in the film (N₂ plasma modification). The obtained insights are expected to further enhance the etching selectivity of Si compound ALE processes. Furthermore, it is anticipated that the process can be extended to many other compound materials such as Ti and Hf, as well as enable selective etching between their oxides, carbides, and nitrides.

Space-making effect for new bone formation by suppressing scar contraction of mucosal epithelium of rat tooth extraction wound using diode laser and CO2 laser treatment

Background/purpose

As an extraction wound closes, the mucosal epithelium of the tooth extraction wound impedes the space for new bone formation by invading into the extraction socket. Thus, the height of the alveolar crest decreases, causing significant depression of the alveolar mucosa. In this study, we created a rat tooth extraction model and examined the effects of laser irradiation by CO₂ and diode on the dynamics of myofibroblast expression through α-SMA, and TGF-β1.

Materials and methods

After tooth extraction of five-week-old male Wistar rats, they were divided into two laser treatment groups (CO₂ laser or diode laser was irradiated into tooth extraction socket) and non-laser treatment group (control group). Surrounding tissues, including the extraction socket, were removed at 3, 5, 7, and 21 days after tooth extraction and the expression of α-SMA and TGF-β1 was verified using immunohistological techniques (6 animals in each group and each period, 72 animals in total).

Results

α-SMA-positive cells and TGF-β1-positive areas were significantly lower in the two laser treatment groups than in the control group. Particularly, the diode group almost had no TGF-β1-positive areas on the 21st day when healing after tooth extraction was deemed to be completed.

Conclusion

Both CO₂ and diode laser irradiation of tooth extraction wounds decreases α-SMA-positive cells and TGF-β1-positive areas. Further, it causes a decrease in myofibroblast expression and suppresses the invasion of mucosal epithelium into the extraction socket. Therefore, laser irradiation may exert a space-making effect for new bone formation and also contribute to socket preservation.

Radiology- and gene-based risk stratification in small renal cell carcinoma: A preliminary study

PURPOSE

Most small renal cell carcinomas (small RCCs) will remain indolent after detection, but some stage I RCCs still metastasize. There are no risk-stratification imaging factors that could be used to identify poor-prognosis patients based on genomic profiling. Here, we evaluated the relationships between imaging parameters and RNA expressions in small RCC and attempted to identify imaging factors that could be used as effective biomarkers.

METHODS

We acquired biopsy specimens of 18 clear cell carcinomas that had undergone perfusion CT (pCT) and MRI between April 2018 and March 2019. We performed RNA sequencing, assessed RNA expressions, and calculated each tumor's cell-cycle progression (CCP) score, which has prognostic value in predicting metastatic progression. We classified the tumors into two groups: clear cell type A (ccA) and type B (ccB). CcA has better survival compared to ccB. We evaluated the following characteristics of each tumor: tumor size, presence of pseudocapsule, and fat. We used the pCT and MRI to measure each tumor's volume transfer constant (Ktrans), rate constant (Kep), extracellular extravascular volume fraction (VE), fractional plasma volume (VP), and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC). The correlations between these small RCC imaging parameters and the tumor size and RNA expressions were determined.

RESULTS

The tumor size was significantly correlated with Kep and inversely correlated with VE, VP, ADC, and hallmark angiogenesis. The CCP score was significantly inversely correlated with Ktrans and Kep. The ccA tumors tended to show a pseudocapsule on MRI.

CONCLUSION

Tumor size was correlated with low perfusion, but not with prognostic factors based on genomic profiling. Imaging parameters (e.g., Ktrans and Kep) and tumor characteristics (e.g., pseudocapsule) may enable gene-based risk stratification in small RCC.

Effect of Systematic Conversion to Generic Mycophenolate Mofetil (MMF) in Kidney Transplantation: A Single-Center Clinical Experience from Japan

INTRODUCTION

Recently, more and more generic drugs have been used for immunosuppressive drugs in the field of organ transplantation. Some reports have indicated that blood concentration of most generic drugs is difficult to maintain stability, and it may cause the difference in graft survival of transplanted organs between original drugs and generic drugs. In this article, we report the cases could not maintain blood concentration of generic drugs of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF).

RESULTS

In 4 cases out of 5 cases that we had to change original MMF to generic MMF, there were cases that blood concentration level was not stabilized. There were possibility that the lowered blood concentration level of MMF caused a rejection, in two cases. Mean MMF trough level was decreased from 3.6 ± 1.9 μg/mL to 0.6 ± 0.4 μg/mL. Due to the early detection, it did not become severe or failure of graft function, however, we cannot deny the possibilities that side effects were increased and rejection rose. In these cases, we discontinued to use the generic drugs thereafter due to unstable plasma concentration of MMF.

DISCUSSION

Some reports have indicated that failure to maintain plasma concentration of MMF leads to rejection. Therefore, maintenance of effective plasma concentration and prevention of rejection are essential to long-term graft survival in kidney transplant.

CONCLUSION

Generic drug formulations may exhibit differences in effects and absorption compared to the brand-name drug. If the generic drug should be used, patients should be closely monitored.

Safety of Elderly Living Kidney Donors: 2 Cases of Donors Older Than 80 Years: A Case Report

Much controversy exists over the performance of elderly living donor kidney transplantation. We report the safety of 2 cases of elderly living kidney donations in our hospital. CASE 1: An 82-year-old man was a living kidney donor for his 56-year-old son. The donor suffered from hypertension, but has successfully managed his blood pressure with only one medication. His serum creatinine was 0.7 mg/dL and inulin clearance was 122.5 mL/min, which met the usual criteria for living kidney donors. This was his son's secondary kidney transplantation, and no other donors existed. CASE 2: An 80-year-old woman was a living kidney donor for her 45-year-old son. Her serum creatinine was 0.61 mg/dL and inulin clearance was 71.7 mL/min, which met the marginal kidney donor criteria. In both cases, we determined that the donor kidney function was acceptable. Though we explained the risks of the transplantation thoroughly, the patients' strong will to offer a kidney to their family member did not change. We decided to carry out the transplantation. At the time of publication, nearly 2 years have passed since the transplantation, but both donors and recipients are doing well. In the future, it seems more likely that the number of elderly living donor kidney transplantation will rise. On one hand, there is no absolute contraindication for elderly donors, while on the other hand, the criteria for a living kidney donor must be strictly examined. Furthermore, careful observation of both donors and recipients after transplantation is required.

Preliminary study of time maximum intensity projection computed tomography imaging for the detection of early ischemic change in patient with acute ischemic stroke

Noncontrast computed tomography (NCCT) has been used for the detection of early ischemic change (EIC); however, correct interpretation of NCCT findings requires much clinical experience. This study aimed to assess the accuracy of time maximum intensity projection computed tomography technique (tMIP), which reflects the maximum value for the time phase direction from the dynamic volume data for each projected plane, for detection of EIC, against that of NCCT.Retrospective review of NCCT, cerebral blood volume in CT perfusion (CTP-CBV), and tMIP of 186 lesions from 280 regions evaluated by Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) in 14 patients with acute middle cerebral artery stroke who had undergone whole-brain CTP using 320-row area detector CT was performed. Four radiologists reviewed EIC on NCCT, CTP-CBV, and tMIP in each ASPECTS region at onset using the continuous certainty factor method. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to compare the relative performance for detection of EIC. The correlations were evaluated.tMIP-color showed the best discriminative value for detection of EIC. There were significant differences in the area under the curve for NCCT and tMIP-color, CTP-CBV (P < .05). Scatter plots of ASPECTS showed a positive significant correlation between NCCT, tMIP-gray, tMIP-color, and the follow-up study (NCCT, r = 0.32, P = .0166; tMIP-gray, r = 0.44, P = .0007; tMIP-color, r = 0.34, P = .0104).Because tMIP provides a high contrast parenchymal image with anatomical and vascular information in 1 sequential scan, it showed greater accuracy for detection of EIC and predicted the final infarct extent more accurately than NCCT based on ASPECTS.

The role of plasma chemistry on functional silicon nitride film properties deposited at low-temperature by mixing two frequency powers using PECVD

A correlation study of plasma parameters and film properties and the implication of dual frequency PECVD for industry are proposed.

Photothermal stress triggered by near-infrared-irradiated carbon nanotubes up-regulates osteogenesis and mineral deposition in tooth-extracted sockets

PURPOSE

The bone regenerative healing process is often prolonged, with a high risk of infection particularly in elderly and diseased patients. A reduction in healing process time usually requires mechanical stress devices, chemical cues, or laser/thermal therapies. Although these approaches have been used extensively for the reduction of bone healing time, the exact mechanisms involved in thermal stress-induced bone regeneration remain unclear.

METHODS

Photothermal stress (PTS) stimulation was carried out using a novel photothermal device, composed of an alginate gel (AG) including carbon nanotubes (CNT-AGs) and their irradiator with near-infrared (NIR) light. We investigated the effects of optimal hyperthermia on osteogenesis, its signalling pathway in vitro and mineral deposition in tooth-extracted sockets in vivo.

RESULTS

The PTS (10 min at 42 °C, every day), triggered by NIR-induced CNT, increased the activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in mouse osteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells in a time-dependent manner compared with the non-thermal stress control. PTS significantly induced the expression of osteogenic-related molecules such as ALP, RUNX2 and Osterix in a time-dependent manner with phosphorylated mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK). PTS increased the expression of heat shock factor (HSF) 2, but not HSF1, resulting in activation of heat shock protein 27. PTS significantly up-regulated mineral deposition in tooth-extracted sockets in normal and ovariectomised osteoporotic model mice in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

Our novel CNT-based PTS up-regulated osteogenesis via activation of heat shock-related molecules, resulting in promotion of mineral deposition in enhanced tooth-extracted sockets.

Hyperocclusion Up-regulates CCL3 Expression in CCL2- and CCR2-deficient Mice

Excessive mechanical stress (MS) during hyperocclusion is known to result in disappearance of the alveolar hard line, enlargement of the periodontal ligament (PDL) space, and destruction of alveolar bone, leading to occlusal traumatism. We have recently reported that MS induces predominantly C-C chemokine ligand (CCL) 2 expression in PDL tissues, leading, via C-C chemokine receptor (CCR) 2, to MS-dependent osteoclastogenesis in alveolar bone. Thus, we hypothesize that ablation of the CCL2/CCR2 signaling pathway should suppress MS-induced osteoclastogenesis-associated chemokines and alleviate occlusal traumatism. We examined the effect of MS on chemokine expression and osteoclastogenesis using in vivo and in vitro hyperocclusion models with CCL2-deficient (CCL2(-/-)) and CCR2-deficient (CCR2(-/-)) mice. Compared with that in wild-type mice, expression of CCL3 in PDL cells and TRAP-positive cells in alveolar bone from CCL2(-/-) and CCR2(-/-) mice was up-regulated, even in the absence of MS. Furthermore, the expression of CCL3 and TRAP-positive cells was significantly increased after both 4 and 7 days of hyperocclusal MS loading in CCL2(-/-) and CCR2(-/-) mice. Hyperocclusion induced compensatory CCL3 expression and promoted osteoclastogenesis to counterbalance deficient CCL2/CCR2 signaling, suggesting that co-expression of CCL3 with CCL2 may precipitate synergistic, MS-dependent alveolar bone destruction during occlusal traumatism. Abbreviations: MS, mechanical stress; PDL, periodontal ligament; CCL2, CC chemokine ligand 2 (MCP-1; monocyte chemoattractant protein-1); CCR2, CC chemokine receptor 2; CCL3, CC chemokine ligand 3 (MIP-1α); CCL5, CC chemokine ligand 5 (RANTES).

Association between affective temperaments and brain-derived neurotrophic factor, glycogen synthase kinase 3β and Wnt signaling pathway gene polymorphisms in healthy subjects

BACKGROUND

There is increased attention towards elucidating genetic factors that underlie both psychiatric diseases as well as healthy psychological phenomena. Recent evidence suggests that temperamental traits, including affective temperaments, are heritable and associated with genetic polymorphisms. Genetic research examining affective temperaments using the Temperament Evaluation of the Memphis, Pisa, Paris, and San Diego Autoquestionnaire (TEMPS-A) may therefore elucidate the concept of a spectrum of mood disorders and the genetic relationship between affective temperaments and mood disorders. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), glycogen synthase kinase 3β(GSK3β) and Wnt signaling pathway (Wnt) gene polymorphisms and affective temperaments in non-clinical Japanese subjects, as measured by TEMPS-A.

METHODS

44 healthy Japanese subjects were recruited through our university hospital and completed the TEMPS-A. We genotyped three SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) from the BDNF, GSK3βand Wnt genes in order to test the relationship between these gene variants and five affective temperaments measured by the TEMPS-A.

RESULTS

No significant difference in the frequency of alleles between affective temperaments (depressive, cyclothymic, hyperthymic, irritable and anxious temperament) and non affective temperaments was shown. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed no significant differences among 5 groups (depressive, cyclothymic, hyperthymic, irritable and anxious temperament) in healthy subjects for all the scores of affective temperaments by TEMPS-A.

LIMITATIONS

The number of subjects was relatively small.

CONCLUSIONS

The variant of BDNF, GSK3β and Wnt gene polymorphism might not be related to the five temperaments of TEMPS-A and TEMPS-A score in healthy Japanese subjects. The present results suggest that BDNF, GSK3βand Wnt genes, might not have a major role in the development of personality traits. Further studies with larger sample size are warranted to evaluate the association of affective temperament and gene polymorphisms.

Hyperocclusion Stimulates Osteoclastogenesis via CCL2 Expression

Excessive mechanical stress (MS) during hyperocclusion is known to result in disappearance of the alveolar hard line, enlargement of the periodontal ligament (PDL) space, and destruction of alveolar bone, leading to occlusal traumatism. We hypothesized that MS induces expression of osteoclastogenesis-associated chemokines in PDL tissue, resulting in chemotaxis and osteoclastogenesis during occlusal traumatism. We examined the effect of MS on relationships between chemokine expression and osteoclastogenesis using in vivo and in vitro hyperocclusion models. In an in vitro model, intermittent stretching-induced MS was shown to up-regulate the expression of CC chemokine ligand (CCL)2, CCL3, and CCL5 in PDL cells. The expression levels of CCL2 in PDL tissues, its receptor CCR2 in pre-osteoclasts, and tartrate-resistant acid-phosphatase-positive cells in alveolar bone were significantly up-regulated 4-7 days after excessive MS during hyperocclusion in in vivo rodent models. Hyperocclusion predominantly induced CCL2 expression in PDL tissues and promoted chemotaxis and osteoclastogenesis, leading to MS-dependent alveolar bone destruction during occlusal traumatism. Abbreviations: MS, mechanical stress; PDL, periodontal ligament; CCL2, CC chemokine ligand 2; MCP-1, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1; CCR2, CC chemokine receptor 2; CCL3, CC chemokine ligand 3 (MIP-1α); CCL5, CC chemokine ligand 5 (RANTES); CXCL12, CXC chemokine ligand 12 (SDF-1).

Hexabromocyclododecane determination in seafood samples collected from Japanese coastal areas

The levels of three hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) isomers and ΣHBCDs in 54 wild and 11 farmed seafood samples collected from four regions of Japan were determined by LC/MS/MS. For the fish classified as Anguilliformes, Perciformes, Clupeiformes and farmed Salmoniformes, the medians (ranges) of ΣHBCDs are 2.09 (0.05-36.9), 0.75 (ND-26.2), 0.12 (0.09-77.3) and 1.29 (1.09-1.34) ng g(-1)ww, respectively. However, HBCDs were not detected in samples classified as Crustacea, Mollusca, Pleuronectiformes and Scorpaeniformes, or if detected, the levels were very low. The rank correlation between ΣHBCDs (or α-HBCD) and fat content could not be found except for the Japanese sea bass of the Tohoku region. In HBCD isomer profiles, for fish samples above 20 ng g(-1)ww, the trend was found that γ-HBCD was predominant, which suggests the influence of discharge from a nearby industrial plant. In the other wild fish and the farmed fish samples, on the other hand, α-HBCD was mostly predominant, which suggests biomagnification via the food chain. Additionally, to assess the risk to human health, based on the determined HBCD median concentrations for Anguilliformes, farmed Salmoniformes and Perciformes, the daily intake of HBCDs from fish by an average Japanese adult was tentatively calculated to be 3.7, 2.3 and 1.3 ng (kg body weight)(-1) d(-1), respectively.

Involvement of adhesion molecule in in vitro plaque-like formation of macrophages stimulated with Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans lipopolysaccharide

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Inflammatory agents, such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS), in periodontal pockets may promote atherogenesis by activating leukocytes. In our previous study, we developed a microchannel chip to observe the cell adhesion process in a fluid system. The objective of this investigation was to examine the mechanism by which periodontopathic bacterial LPS enhances plaque-like formation on a microchannel chip.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

To evaluate the effect of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans LPS on the expression of adhesion molecules, e.g. intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), lymphocyte function-associated antigen 1 (LFA-1) and L-selectin, on the surface of murine macrophage RAW264.7 cells, the expression of each adhesion molecule was examined by flow cytometry and western blot analysis. Moreover, a flow test on the microchannel chip involving anti-adhesion molecule antibodies was conducted to clarify which adhesion molecule is related to plaque-like formation of RAW264.7 cells.

RESULTS

The expressions of ICAM-1 and LFA-1 on the surface of RAW 264.7 cells increased following 12 h culture with LPS; L-selectin expression was unaffected. An increase in ICAM-1 expression was also confirmed by western blot analysis. The flow test revealed that anti-ICAM-1 antibody inhibited plaque-like formation of LPS-stimulated macrophages on the micropillars of the microchannel chip.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that ICAM-1 plays an important role in plaque-like formation of LPS-stimulated macrophages. Our microchannel chip is a suitable tool for the investigation of etiological factors of atherosclerosis, including periodontitis, in vitro.

Eicosapentaenoic acid inhibits voltage-gated sodium channels and invasiveness in prostate cancer cells

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The voltage-gated Na(+) channels (Na(v)) and their corresponding current (I(Na)) are involved in several cellular processes, crucial to metastasis of cancer cells. We investigated the effects of eicosapentaenoic (EPA), an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, on I(Na) and metastatic functions (cell proliferation, endocytosis and invasion) in human and rat prostate cancer cell lines (PC-3 and Mat-LyLu cells).

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

The whole-cell voltage clamp technique and conventional/quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction analysis were used. The presence of Na(v) proteins was shown by immunohistochemical methods. Alterations in the fatty acid composition of phospholipids after treatment with EPA and metastatic functions were also examined.

KEY RESULTS

A transient inward Na(+) current (I(Na)), highly sensitive to tetrodotoxin, and Na(V) proteins were found in these cells. Expression of Na(V)1.6 and Na(V)1.7 transcripts (SCN8A and SCN9A) was predominant in PC-3 cells, while Na(V)1.7 transcript (SCN9A) was the major component in Mat-LyLu cells. Tetrodotoxin or synthetic small interfering RNA targeted for SCN8A and SCN9A inhibited metastatic functions (endocytosis and invasion), but failed to inhibit proliferation in PC-3 cells. Exposure to EPA produced a rapid and concentration-dependent suppression of I(Na). In cells chronically treated (up to 72h) with EPA, the EPA content of cell lipids increased time-dependently, while arachidonic acid content decreased. Treatment of PC-3 cells with EPA decreased levels of mRNA for SCN9A and SCN8A, cell proliferation, invasion and endocytosis.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Treatment with EPA inhibited I(Na) directly and also indirectly, by down-regulation of Na(v) mRNA expression in prostate cancer cells, thus inhibiting their metastatic potential.

Social support and enhanced suppression of adrenocorticotropic hormone and cortisol responses to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal function and thyrotropin-releasing hormone tests in patients with major depressive disorder

The results of the thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) stimulation test and the combined dexamethasone/corticotropin-releasing hormone (DEX/CRH) test are believed to correlate with social support status in patients with major depressive disorder. We studied 41 consecutive patients hospitalized for major depressive disorder and tested their responses to DEX/CRH and TRH on hospital days 4-7. DeltaMAX TSH and DeltaMAX cortisol were measured. Multiple regression analysis found that social support questionnaire (SSQ-A) and SSQ-B scores were significantly related to DeltaMAX cortisol and DeltaMAX TSH, respectively, at the time of admission. Social support might contribute partially to the TRH and DEX/CRH test results in patients with major depressive disorder.

Vesicular acetylcholine transporter–immunoreactive axon terminals enriched in the pontine nuclei of the mouse

Information to the cerebellum enters via many afferent sources collectively known as precerebellar nuclei. We investigated the distribution of cholinergic terminal-like structures in the mouse precerebellar nuclei by immunohistochemistry for vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT). VAChT is involved in acetylcholine transport into synaptic vesicles and is regarded as a reliable marker for cholinergic terminals and preterminal axons. In adult male mice, brains were perfusion-fixed. Polyclonal antibodies for VAChT, immunoglobulin G-peroxidase and diaminobenzidine were used for immunostaining. In the mouse brain, immunoreactivity was seen in almost all major cholinergic cell groups including brainstem motoneurons. In precerebellar nuclei, the signal could be detected as diffusely beaded terminal-like structures. It was seen heaviest in the pontine nuclei and moderate in the pontine reticulotegmental nucleus; however, it was seen less in the medial solitary nucleus, red nucleus, lateral reticular nucleus, inferior olivary nucleus, external cuneate nucleus and vestibular nuclear complex. In particular, VAChT-immunoreactive varicose fibers were so dense in the pontine nuclei that detailed distribution was studied using three-dimensional reconstruction of the pontine nuclei. VAChT-like immunoreactivity clustered predominantly in the medial and ventral regions suggesting a unique regional difference of the cholinergic input. Electron microscopic observation in the pontine nuclei disclosed ultrastructural features of VAChT-immunoreactive varicosities. The labeled bouton makes a symmetrical synapse with unlabeled dendrites and contains pleomorphic synaptic vesicles. To clarify the neurons of origin of VAChT-immunoreactive terminals, VAChT immunostaining combined with wheat germ agglutinin-conjugated horseradish peroxidase retrograde labeling was conducted by injecting a retrograde tracer into the right pontine nuclei. Double-labeled neurons were seen bilaterally in the laterodorsal tegmental nucleus and pedunculopontine tegmental nucleus. It is assumed that mesopontine cholinergic neurons negatively regulate neocortico-ponto-cerebellar projections at the level of pontine nuclei.

Intracranial angiosarcoma arising from a schwannoma

Angiosarcomas rarely arise from schwannomas, but we describe here a case of angiosarcoma that arose from a remnant of a benign vestibular schwannoma that had been removed 10 years earlier. The patient was a 66-year-old man with no sign of neurofibromatosis. Although we attempted surgical resection, we could not totally remove the tumour. The patient died nine months after diagnosis, primarily as result of an abscess in the cerebellum and base of the skull. The histological diagnosis was confirmed by the immunohistochemical findings of positivity for CD34 antigen and S-100 protein in the resected tumour.A review of the literature revealed four other cases of angiosarcoma with schwannoma, all of which arose from an extracranial nerve. The present case is the first report of an angiosarcoma with schwannoma arising from an intracranial locus.

A case of IgG4-related autoimmune disease with multiple organ involvement

A 52-year-old male was admitted with autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP), showing mononuclear cell infiltration in both the pancreas and salivary glands with both normal sialography and anti-SS-A/SS-B antibodies. Although the AIP improved with glucocorticoid treatment, subsequent abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed a nodular shadow in the bilateral kidneys, which was confirmed as interstitial nephritis by renal biopsy. The patient's serum immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) level was 10 times higher than the upper limit of the normal range. IgG4-positive mononuclear cell infiltration was detected in the salivary gland, pancreas, and kidney. A new entity proposed as 'IgG4-related autoimmune disease' was considered.

Chiral Discrimination of Cryptochiral Saturated Quaternary and Tertiary Hydrocarbons by Asymmetric Autocatalysis

Chiral discrimination of saturated hydrocarbons has been very difficult to establish, or has not been possible at all. The first chiral discrimination of cryptochiral 5-ethyl-5-propylundecane 1, that is, (n-butyl)ethyl(n-hexyl)(n-propyl)methane, a chiral saturated quaternary hydrocarbon, which is known to exhibit practically no detectable value of optical rotation between 280 and 580 nm, has been accomplished by asymmetric autocatalysis of pyrimidyl alkanol. The absolute configuration of 1 has been determined. In the presence of (R)- or (S)-1, the reaction between pyrimidine-5-carbaldehyde and diisopropylzinc affords (S)- and (R)-pyrimidyl alkanol with 91-97% ee, respectively. Thus, asymmetric autocatalysis serves as a powerful tool for the chiral discrimination of saturated hydrocarbons.

Transient electrostatic fields and related energetic proton generation with a plasma fiber

We observe a hollow structure and a fine ring in the proton images from a petawatt scale laser interaction with a "cone-fiber" target. The protons related to the hollow structure are accelerated from the cone-tip surface and deflected later by a radial electric field surrounding the fiber. Those associated with the fine ring are accelerated from the fiber surface by this radial electric field. This field is found to decay exponentially within 3 ps from about 5 x 10(12) V/m. Two-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations produce similar proton angular distributions.

Demonstration of bulk acceleration of ions in ultraintense laser interactions with low-density foams

Ion acceleration inside low-density foams irradiated by ultraintense laser pulses has been studied experimentally and theoretically. It is found that the ion generation is closely correlated with the suppressed hot electron transport inside the foams. Particle-in-cell simulations suggest that localized electrostatic fields with multi peaks around the surfaces of lamellar layers inside the foams are induced. These fields inhibit hot electron transport and meanwhile accelerate ions inside the foams, forming a bulk acceleration in contrast to the surface acceleration at the front and rear sides of a thin solid target.

Simultaneous use of thyrotropin-releasing hormone test and combined dexamethasone/corticotropine-releasing hormone test for severity evaluation and outcome prediction in patients with major depressive disorder

We performed a prospective study designed to examine whether or not evaluation of the severity and prediction of treatment outcome in major depressive disorder would be enabled by simultaneous use of the thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) test and the combined dexamethasone/corticotropin-releasing hormone (DEX/CRH) test. We studied consecutive patients hospitalized for major depressive disorder. The patients received the TRH test and the DEX/CRH test on the 4th through the 7th hospital days and at the time of improvement. None of the indices in these tests at the time of admission correlated with the Hamilton rating scale for depression (HRSD) or the Global Assessment for Function (GAF). However, since the DeltaMAXACTH, ACTHAUC, DeltaMAXcortisol, and CortisolAUC showed significant decreases at the time of improvement compared with the time of admission, suggesting that the DEX/CRH test can be a state marker. DeltaMAXTSH showed no significant change. Prediction of improvement within 3 months after admission was not possible with either test alone. However, the quotient which divided DeltaMAXACTH by DeltaMAXTSH was predictive of clinical improvement with a sensitivity of 50% and a specificity of 100%. The simultaneous use of the TRH test and the DEX/CRH test seems to provide a more useful biological marker than the separate use of either test alone in patients with major depressive disorder.

Anxiolytic suppression of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation-induced anxiety in the rats

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is effective for treatment of several psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety disorder. However, some reports suggest that rTMS induced anxiety in normal volunteers. Consistent with this observation, we have reported that chronic rTMS induces anxiety in normal rats which was suppressed by chronic treatment, but not acute paroxetine treatment. The current study evaluates rTMS as animal model of anxiety by investigating the effect of rTMS on anxiety behaviors and the ability of standard anxiolytics to block expression of these behaviors. We found that 10-day rTMS induced anxiety in normal rats, as evidenced by expression of anxiety behaviors in the elevated plus-maze. This anxiety was suppressed by acute treatment with diazepam, alprazolam, or buspirone suggesting that chronic rTMS treatment provides a good animal model for anxiety.

Anxiolytic effect of hepatocyte growth factor infused into rat brain

BACKGROUND

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) has the capacity to selectively direct thalamocortical projections into an intermediate target, the pallidum, and eventually to their final cortical destination. HGF may have a role in the mediation of anxiety. Very little is known about other central behavioral effects of HGF.

OBJECTIVE

Our aim was to determine what effect HGF has on anxiety in rats.

METHODS

HGF was infused at a constant rate into cerebral lateral ventricles and its effect on anxiety in rats was monitored.

RESULTS

In the elevated plus maze test and the black and white box test, HGF administration caused all indicators of anxiety to increase. No significant effect on general locomotor activity was seen.

CONCLUSION

HGF infusion into the brain produces an anxiolytic effect.

Enhancement of energetic electrons and protons by cone guiding of laser light

Energetic electrons and protons are observed when a target consisting of a reentrant cone with a disk at the tip is irradiated by a petawatt (PW) laser at an intensity of approximately 10(19) W cm(-2). The angular distribution of the electrons and protons, dependent on the open angle of the reentrant cone, is found to differ from that in the case when a target with planar geometry is used. Two jet beams are observed, in directions parallel to the cone axis and normal to the cone-shaped wall. The number and cutoff energies of the generated protons are also related to the open angle of the cone. The efficiency of the generation of energetic electrons from the cone target is 2-3 times higher than that from a simple plane target. These results indicate a guiding of the PW laser beam in the cone geometry.

High-energy electrons produced in subpicosecond laser-plasma interactions from subrelativistic laser intensities to relativistic intensities

The characteristics of the forward hot electrons produced by subpicosecond laser-plasma interactions are studied for different laser polarizations at laser intensities from subrelativistic to relativistic. The peak of the hot electron beam produced by p-polarized laser beam shifts to the laser propagation direction from the target normal direction as the laser intensity reaches the relativistic. For s-polarized laser pulse, hot electrons are mainly directed to the laser axis direction. The temperature and the maximum energy of hot electrons are much higher than that expected by the empirical scaling law. The energy spectra of the hot electrons evolve to be a single-temperature structure at relativistic laser intensities from the two-temperature structure at subrelativistic intensities. For relativistic laser intensities, the forward hot electrons are less dependent on the laser polarization under the laser conditions. The existing of a preplasma formed by the laser amplified spontaneous emission pedestal plays an important role in the interaction. One-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations reproduce the most characteristics observed in the experiment.

Reduced anxious behavior in mice lacking the CCK2 receptor gene

Cholecystokinin 2 (CCK2) receptors have been implicated as mediators of anxiety in standard mouse models such as exploratory behavior both in black and white test boxes and in elevated plus-mazes. We investigated the role of the CCK2 receptor in anxiety by evaluating the behavior of mice lacking the gene for this receptor in these standard anxiety models (i.e., exploratory behavior in a black and white test box and exploratory behavior in an elevated plus-maze). In the black and white test box, mice lacking the CCK2 receptor gene showed significantly increased numbers of transitions between the boxes compared to control mice. In the elevated plus-maze, mice lacking the CCK2 receptor gene displayed significantly more head dips than control mice. These results suggest that mice lacking the CCK2 receptor gene are less anxious than normal mice.

Novel CAG/CTG repeat expansion mutations do not contribute to the genetic risk for most cases of bipolar disorder or schizophrenia

The possible presence of anticipation in bipolar affective disorder and schizophrenia has led to the hypothesis that repeat expansion mutations could contribute to the genetic etiology of these diseases. Using the repeat expansion detection (RED) assay, we have systematically examined genomic DNA from 100 unrelated probands with schizophrenia and 68 unrelated probands with bipolar affective disorder for the presence of CAG/CTG repeat expansions. Our results show that 28% of the probands with schizophrenia and 30% of probands with bipolar disorder have a CAG/CTG repeat in the expanded range, but that each expansion could be explained by one of three nonpathogenic repeat expansions known to exist in the general population. We conclude that novel CAG/CTG repeat expansions are not a common genetic risk factor for bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.

Anxiogenic-like effect of corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 2 antisense oligonucleotides infused into rat brain

Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is widely distributed in the brain and coordinates behavioural responses to stress. Its receptor subtypes, CRF-R1 and CRF-R2, are expressed in the brain. For this study, we tested the effect of a continuous infusion of CRF-R2 antisense oligonucleotides into the lateral ventricle on anxiety-related behaviours in rats. Our results indicate that CRF-R2 antisense oligonucleotides produced an anxiogenic-like effect in elevated plus maze, black and white box and conditioned fear stress in rats. No significant effect on general locomotor activity was seen. These results indicate that inhibition of CRF-R2 induces an increase in anxiety-related behaviours suggesting an anxiogenic-like effect.

Spatial memory impairment in OLETF rats without cholecystokinin - a receptor

Cholecystokinin (CCK) is one of the most abundant neurotransmitter peptides in the brain. As Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rats lack CCK-A receptor because of a genetic abnormality, we examined whether learning and memory were impaired in these animals using both Morris water maze (MWM) and step-through type passive avoidance (PA) learning test. In the MWM test, memory impairment was observed in OLETF rats. The number of errors was also significantly higher, and that of the correct choices was significantly lower in OLETF rats compared to the controls [Long-Evans Tokushima Otsuka (LETO)] rats. In PA, OLETF rats did not show facilitating response 24 h after training. From these observations, we concluded that a spatial memory was impaired in the OLETF rats.