A novel red-emitting K2Ca(PO4)F:Eu2+ phosphor with a large Stokes shift

We report a K₂CaPO₄F:Eu²⁺ phosphor with a new crystal structure. This phosphor has a large Stokes shift and converts near-ultraviolet light to red luminescence without absorption of other visible light. The mechanism was elucidated by applying a constrained density functional theory to the solved crystal structure.

Neuroradiologic features in X-linked α-thalassemia/mental retardation syndrome

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

X-linked α-thalassemia/mental retardation syndrome (Mendelian Inheritance in Man, 301040) is one of the X-linked intellectual disability syndromes caused by mutations of the ATRX gene and characterized by male predominance, central hypotonic facies, severe cognitive dysfunction, hemoglobin H disease (α-thalassemia), genital and skeletal abnormalities, and autistic and peculiar behavior. More than 200 patients in the world, including >70 Japanese patients, have been diagnosed with ATR-X syndrome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed the brain MRI and/or CT findings of 27 Japanese patients with ATR-X with ATRX mutations retrospectively.

RESULTS

The findings were categorized into 5 types: 1) nonspecific brain atrophy (17/27); 2) white matter abnormalities, especially around the trigones (11/27); 3) widespread and scattered white matter abnormalities (1/27); 4) delayed myelination (4/27); and 5) severe and rapidly progressive cortical brain atrophy (1/27).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report on a comprehensive study of brain MRI/CT findings of ATR-X syndrome. Our findings suggest that the ATRX protein seems to be involved in normal myelination. The classification will require revisions in the near future, but it will be helpful in establishing the relationship between ATRX mutation and brain development and understanding the ATRX protein function in the brain.

Prognostic importance of tumour-infiltrating memory T cells in oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Memory T cells survive for many months and years and are critically important for host defence in humans. In tumour immunity, they have been also suggested to play a significant role in tumour progression and metastasis. However, the role of memory T cells in actual human cancer remains largely unknown. In this study, the clinical importance of tumour-infiltrating CD45RO(+) memory T cells was investigated in human oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). CD45RO(+) T cells were evaluated by immunohistochemistry in primary OSCC tumours from 105 patients. Patients were classified into two groups as CD45RO(+hi) or CD45RO(+lo) based on the number of cells stained positively for CD45RO. No significant difference was observed between CD45RO status and several clinicopathological prognostic factors. However, the postoperative overall and disease-free survival for CD45RO(+hi) patients was significantly better than for CD45RO(+lo) patients. Furthermore, there were significant correlations of CD45RO status in the primary tumour with postoperative lymph node and pulmonary recurrence, suggesting that memory T cells may control postoperative metastatic recurrence. Most importantly, CD45RO(+) memory T cell status has a significant prognostic value for OSCC independently of conventional tumour-node-metastasis (TNM) classification. Our study may provide a rationale for developing a novel immunotherapy in intentional induction of memory T cells for the treatment of oesophageal cancer.

A case of cystadenocarcinoma of the ectopic salivary gland: comparison of pre-operative ultrasound, CT and MR images with the pathological specimen

Cystadenocarcinoma is a rare salivary gland tumour. Only a few case studies have provided pre-operative images of these tumours. This report demonstrates the case of a 28-year-old male with cystadenocarcinoma arising from an ectopic salivary gland with lymph node metastasis in the right upper neck. Ultrasound including Doppler images showed two masses with scant vascular flow. One was a hyperechoic mass enclosed within a low echoic cystic lesion and the other was a solid hypoechoic mass. Contrast enhancement CT scans demonstrated a ring enhanced mass and weakly homogeneous enhanced masses in the right upper neck. Dynamic studies showed increased enhancement in delayed phase CT that was the same as that in other malignant salivary gland tumours. Moderate to slightly high signal intensity was seen on T(1) weighted MR images and axial T(2) weighted MR images showed one heterogeneous mass in a high signal lesion and a moderate to high signal intensity mass. The authors discuss the pre-operative findings of ultrasound with Doppler imaging of this neoplasm, and CT findings including dynamic study images and MRI, comparing the findings with the post-operative pathological features of the tumour.

A comparison of surgery and radiation therapy for cT1 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Surgery and radiation therapy have been used to treat esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. However, treatment outcomes have not yet been extensively investigated. The aim of this study was to compare surgery and radiation therapy for clinical T1 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. A total of 67 clinical T1 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients were treated between January 1997 and December 2005; 29 had undergone radical esophagectomy (surgery group) and 38 were treated with definitive radiation therapy (radiation group). The mean patient age was lower in the surgery group than in the radiation group. In surgery group, respiratory complications, anastomotic leaks, recurrent nerve palsies, and anastomotic stenosis occurred in 7, 8, 6, and 5 patients, respectively. In radiation group, leucopenia, esophagitis, pericarditis were observed in 15, 3, and 3 patients, respectively. The 5-year overall survival rate for the surgery group was 68.9%, and 74.3% for the radiation group. There were no significant difference between groups (P= 0.3780). The 5-year relapse-free survival rate in the surgery group was 61.8% and 38.8% in the radiation group. The relapse-free survival rate was significantly higher in the surgery group than in the radiation group (P= 0.0051). The 5-year overall and relapse-free survival rates for tumors invaded into but not through the muscularis mucosa were 83.3% and 75.0%, respectively, in the surgery group and 78.8% and 33.3%, respectively, in the radiation group. There were no significant differences. The 5-year overall survival rates for patients with tumors that invaded the submucosal layer was 64.9% in the surgery group and 66.5% in the radiation group. This difference was not significant (P= 0.8712). The 5-year relapse-free survival rate in the surgery group (56.0%) was significantly higher than that in the radiation group (41.8%; P= 0.0219). In conclusion, surgery may become a standard treatment for cT1 esophageal cancer that can offer longer relapse-free survival, particularly for patients with tumors that invade the submucosa.

Practical evaluation of Mung bean seed pasteurization method in Japan

The majority of the seed sprout-related outbreaks have been associated with Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella. Therefore, an effective method for inactivating these organisms on the seeds before sprouting is needed. The current pasteurization method for mung beans in Japan (hot water treatment at 85 degrees C for 10 s) was more effective for disinfecting inoculated E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella, and nonpathogenic E. coli on mung bean seeds than was the calcium hypochlorite treatment (20,000 ppm for 20 min) recommended by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Hot water treatment at 85 degrees C for 40 s followed by dipping in cold water for 30 s and soaking in chlorine water (2,000 ppm) for 2 h reduced the pathogens to undetectable levels, and no viable pathogens were found in a 25-g enrichment culture and during the sprouting process. Practical tests using a working pasteurization machine with nonpathogenic E. coli as a surrogate produced similar results. The harvest yield of the treated seed was within the acceptable range. These treatments could be a viable alternative to the presently recommended 20,000-ppm chlorine treatment for mung bean seeds.

Combination treatments for killing Escherichia coli O157:H7 on alfalfa, radish, broccoli, and mung bean seeds

In this study, the effectiveness of prolonged dry-heat treatment (50 degrees C) alone or in combination with chemical treatments (1% oxalic acid, 0.03% phytic acid, 50% ethanol, electrolyzed acidic water, and electrolyzed alkaline water) in eliminating Escherichia coli O157:H7 on laboratory-inoculated alfalfa, radish, broccoli, and mung bean seeds was compared with that of dry-heat treatment in combination with irradiation treatment. Dry-heat treatment for 17 or 24 h alone could reduce E. coli O157:H7 numbers to below detectable levels in radish, broccoli, and alfalfa seeds, but was unable to reduce the pathogen numbers to below the detectable level in mung bean seeds. In addition, dry-heat treatment for 17 h plus sanitizer treatments were effective in greatly reducing pathogen populations on radish, broccoli, and alfalfa seeds, without compromising the quality of the sprouts, but these treatments did not eliminate the pathogen from radish and alfalfa seeds. Seventeen hours of dry heat followed by a 1.0-kGy dose of irradiation completely eliminated E. coli O157:H7 from radish and mung bean seeds, whereas only a minimum radiation dose of 0.25 kGy was required to completely eliminate the pathogen from broccoli and alfalfa seeds. Dry heat in combination with radiation doses of up to 1.0 kGy did not negatively impact the seed germination rate or length of alfalfa, broccoli, and radish seeds or the length of alfalfa, broccoli, and radish sprouts, but did decrease the length of mung bean sprouts.

Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of olopatadine and fexofenadine compared with placebo in Japanese cedar pollinosis using an environmental exposure unit

BACKGROUND

Second-generation oral H1-antihistamines have become a mainstay of treatment for the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis; however, the effect of olopatadine has not been widely reported to date.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy of 2 oral H1-antihistamines, olopatadine and fexofenadine, in the treatment of the nasal symptoms of Japanese cedar pollinosis and their possible side effects.

METHODS

This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study conducted in an environmental exposure unit (EEU). Twenty volunteers suffering from Japanese cedar pollinosis were randomly divided into 3 groups and exposed to cedar pollen in the EEU with oral administration of olopatadine hydrochloride (5 mg), fexofenadine hydrochloride (60 mg), or placebo 1 hour prior to pollen exposure. Nasal symptoms, activity impairment, and subjective sleepiness were self-assessed during the study period. Attention was measured using the digit cancellation test. The trial was repeated after 4 and 7 weeks.

RESULTS

Compared with placebo, olopatadine significantly improved nasal symptoms and activity impairment during pollen exposure (P < .05). There was no significant relief of nasal discharge or nasal congestion with fexofenadine throughout the 5-hour exposure to cedar pollen. Furthermore, olopatadine significantly reduced nasal congestion during the first 2 hours, as well as sneezing and nasal discharge 4 hours after admission to the EEU compared with fexofenadine (P < .05). There was no significant difference in the effect on subjective sleepiness among the 3 groups, and all 3 agents had little effect on attention.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that olopatadine is more effective than placebo and fexofenadine in improving nasal symptoms of Japanese cedar pollinosis.

Optical feshbach resonance using the intercombination transition

We report control of the scattering wave function by an optical Feshbach resonance effect using ytterbium atoms. The narrow intercombination line (1S0-3P1) is used for efficient control as proposed by Ciuryło et al. [Phys. Rev. A 71, 030701(R) (2005)10.1103/PhysRevA.71.030701]. The manipulation of the scattering wave function is monitored with the change of a photoassociation rate caused by another laser. The optical Feshbach resonance is especially efficient for isotopes with large negative scattering lengths such as 172Yb, and we have confirmed that the scattering phase shift divided by the wave number, which gives the scattering length in the zero energy limit, is changed by about 30 nm.

Probiotics in the treatment of Japanese cedar pollinosis: a double-blind placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Probiotic bacteria may be effective in the treatment of allergic inflammation and food allergy, but efficacy and underlying mechanisms remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The present study investigated the effects of probiotic strain Bifidobacterium longum BB536 in the treatment of Japanese cedar pollinosis (JCPsis).

METHODS

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 44 JCPsis subjects received BB536 or placebo for 13 weeks during the pollen season. Subjective symptoms and self-care measures were recorded daily and blood samples were taken before and during intervention to measure blood levels of parameters related to JCPsis.

RESULTS

BB536 intake was associated with a significant reduction in number of subjects prematurely terminated due to severe symptoms and pollinosis medication (P=0.0057 vs. placebo group). Comparison of subjective symptom scores indicated significant decreases in rhinorrhea, nasal blockage and composite scores in the BB536 group compared with the placebo group. Comparison of medical scores showed marked improvements in all symptoms on BB536 intake. A T-helper type 2 (Th2)-skewed immune response occurring along with pollen dispersion was observed. BB536 significantly suppressed increases in plasma thymus- and activation-regulated chemokine and tended to suppress elevations of Japanese cedar pollen (JCP)-specific IgE.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest the efficacy of BB536 in relieving JCPsis symptoms, probably through the modulation of Th2-skewed immune response.

Determination of the s-wave scattering length and the C6 van der Waals coefficient of 174Yb via photoassociation spectroscopy

We report photoassociation spectroscopy of 174Yb for the 1S(0)-1P1 transition at 1 microK, where only the s-wave scattering state contributes to the spectra. The wave function of the s-wave scattering state is obtained from the photoassociation efficiency, and we determine that the C6 potential coefficient is 2300+/-250 a.u. and the s-wave scattering length is 5.53+/-0.11 nm. Based on these parameters, we discuss the scattering properties of s- and d-wave states.

Unicentric and multicentric Castleman's disease

Castleman's disease (CD) appears at ubiquitous lymph nodes. To date, detection of the lesion focus for CD has mainly been carried out by physical examination and radiological findings, such as X-ray analysis, CT and MRI. 18F-FDG PET visualizes the active focus of glucose metabolism and the clinical value has been investigated for many different tumours. Previous studies of 18F-FDG PET for CD have only reported four cases of unicentric CD and no cases of multicentric CD. In this paper, we report two cases of CD, one with unicentric CD and one with multicentric CD. We demonstrate that the use of 18F-FDG PET for the detection and monitoring of patients with CD, especially multicentric CD, would be effective.

Effect of lysed Enterococcus faecalis FK-23 on allergen-induced immune responses and intestinal microflora in antibiotic-treated weaning mice

BACKGROUND

Recent epidemiological studies have indicated that early life receipt of antibiotics may be associated with an increased risk of developing atopic disorder. Lysed Enterococcus faecalis FK-23 (LFK), a probiotic product of E faecalis, has been shown to have inhibitory effects on allergen-induced immune responses in mice.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of LFK on immune responses and intestinal microflora in antibiotic-treated, and allergen-sensitized weaning mice.

METHODS

Three-week-old BALB/c mice were sensitized with cedar pollen allergen to establish the experimental model. The allergen-induced peritoneal accumulation of eosinophils, serum levels of total and allergen-specific immunoglobulin (Ig) E and IgG2a, and the intestinal bacterial flora were determined in the control, antibiotic, LFK and antibiotic-LFK groups (n = 7 in all groups). Orally administered erythromycin, one kind of macrolide antibiotic, was used for the experiments.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the allergen-induced peritoneal accumulation of eosinophils and serum specific IgE and IgG2a levels in erythromycin-treated mice compared to a control group. However, the ratio of serum total IgE to IgG2a levels was significantly increased in erythromycin-treated mice relative to that found either in LFK-treated mice or in erythromycin-treated mice with LFK supplementation. The total aerobes, total anaerobes and Enterococcus species of intestinal microflora were not significantly different among all groups. Lactobacillus species were distinctly eliminated in the mice exposed to erythromycin on day 7 and totally recovered in erythromycin-treated mice with LFK intervention on day 28, but could not be recovered in the erythromycin-treated mice without LFK intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that LFK may improve the intestinal ecosystem disturbed by antibiotic use, and thereby prevent subsequent development of atopy. However, whether different antibiotics have different effects on immune responses needs to be addressed further.

Molecular cloning and heterologous expression of an alpha-adrenergic-like octopamine receptor from the silkworm Bombyx mori

A cDNA encoding an octopamine (OA) receptor (BmOAR1) was isolated from the nerve tissue of silkworm (Bombyx mori) larvae. Comparison of amino acid sequences showed that BmOAR1 is highly identical to OA receptors isolated from Periplaneta americana (Pa oa(1)), Apis mellifera (AmOA1), and Drosophila melanogaster (OAMB or DmOA1A). BmOAR1 was stably expressed in HEK-293 cells. OA above 1 microM led to an increase in intracellular cyclic AMP concentration ([cAMP](i)). The synthetic OA-receptor agonist demethylchlordimeform also elevated [cAMP](i) to the same maximal level (approximately 5-fold over the basal level) as that induced by OA. However, other biogenic amines, tyramine and dopamine, and chlordimeform were without effects. The [cAMP](i) level raised by OA was lowered by antagonists; the rank order of antagonist activity was chlorpromazine > mianserin = yohimbine. Cyproheptadine and metoclopramide had little effect. OA above 100 nM induced a transient or sustained increase in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)), depending on the concentration of OA. Sequence homology and functional analysis data indicate that BmOAR1 is an alpha-adrenergic-like OA receptor of B. mori.

Vortex dynamics and the Fulde-Ferrell-Larkin-Ovchinnikov state in a magnetic-field-induced organic superconductor

Under special conditions, a superconducting state where the order parameter oscillates in real space, the so-called FFLO state, is theoretically predicted to exist near the upper critical field, as first proposed by Fulde and Ferrell, and Larkin and Ovchinnikov. We report systematic measurements of the interlayer resistance in high magnetic fields to 45 T in the two-dimensional magnetic-field-induced organic superconductor lambda-(BETS)2FeCl4, where BETS is bis(ethylenedithio)tetraselenafulvalene. The resistance is found to show characteristic dip structures in the superconducting state. The results are consistent with pinning interactions between the vortices penetrating the insulating layers and the order parameter of the FFLO state. This gives strong evidence for an oscillating order parameter in real space.

Age Differences in Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor Expression and Rb Hyperphosphorylation in Human Corneal Endothelial Cells

PURPOSE

Human corneal endothelial cells (HCECs) are considered to be nonreplicative in vivo; however, isolated HCECs can be cultured and grown successfully, indicating that they retain proliferative capacity. This capacity to replicate tends to decrease with donor age. Cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors (CKIs) are important negative regulators of the cell cycle. Of those CKIs, p16INK4a, p21WAF1/Cip1, and p27Kip1 are expressed in corneal endothelium. To help reveal the mechanism of this age-related difference, the relative expression of those CKIs and the kinetics of hyperphosphorylation of the retinoblastoma protein, Rb, were analyzed in HCECs from various aged donors.

METHODS

Fresh-frozen sections of corneas from an 18-year-old and a 74-year-old donor were immunostained to reveal the expression and localization of the three CKIs in corneal endothelium in situ. HCECs from eight donors of various ages were isolated and cultured until they reached passage 4. After the cells reached confluence, total protein was extracted, and the relative expression of p16(INK4a), p21WAF1/Cip1, and p27Kip1 was determined by Western blot analysis. A parallel analysis was performed with primary cultures of HCECs obtained from eight different donors. Subconfluent passage 2 HCECs from eight donors were serum starved and, at different times after growth factor stimulation, protein was extracted, and Western blot analysis was used to compare the overall expression of Rb protein and the kinetics of Rb hyperphosphorylation.

RESULTS

Immunocytochemistry confirmed the expression and nuclear localization of p16(INK4a), p21WAF1/Cip1, and p27Kip1 in HCECs in situ. Western blot studies revealed an age-related increase in p16INK4a and p21WAF1/Cip1 protein expression in cultured HCECs. Expression of p27Kip1 tended to decrease with the donor's age in passage-4 cells; however, there was no significant difference in p27Kip1 expression level between young and older donors in primary cultured HCECs. No age-related difference in total Rb protein was observed in the Western blots; however, the rate of Rb hyperphosphorylation was significantly slower in HCECs from older donors.

CONCLUSIONS

p16(INK4a), p21WAF1/Cip1, p27Kip1, and Rb were all expressed in HCECs, regardless of donor age. Age-related differences in the relative expression of p16INK4a and p21WAF1/Cip1 and in the kinetics of Rb hyperphosphorylation led to the conclusion that, in addition to the normal inhibitory activity of p27Kip1, there is an age-dependent increase in negative regulation of the cell cycle by p16INK4a and p21WAF1/Cip1. This additional molecular mechanism may be responsible, at least in part, for the reduced proliferative response observed in HCECs from older donors.

Acid sphingomyelinase deficiency: cardiac dysfunction and characteristic findings of the coronary arteries

Two sisters with type B Niemann-Pick disease (genotype: S436R/S436R) showed cardiac dysfunctions, not secondary to pulmonary disease, at the beginning of the third decade. In the younger sister, myocardial dysfunction was refractory to treatment, resulting in death. At autopsy, the distal branches of the coronary arteries showed narrowing of the arterial lumina due to swelling of the medial and intimal smooth-muscle cells. This is the first report describing characteristic findings of coronary arteries in type B Niemann-Pick disease.

Effect of probiotic Bifidobacterium longum BB536 [corrected] in relieving clinical symptoms and modulating plasma cytokine levels of Japanese cedar pollinosis during the pollen season. A randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Probiotic microorganisms have been shown to be effective in the treatment of allergic inflammation and food allergy, but their efficacy remains controversial. This study tested the effect of a yogurt supplemented with a probiotic strain Bifidobacterium longum BB536 in the treatment of Japanese cedar pollinosis (JCPsis). Forty subjects with a clinical history of JCPsis were given yoghurt either containing BB536 (BB536 yoghurt) or without BB536 (placebo yoghurt) at 2 X 100 g per day for 14 weeks, in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Subjective symptoms and self-care measures were recorded daily and blood samples were taken before and during the intervention (at weeks 4, 9, and 14) to measure the blood parameter levels related to JCPsis. Yoghurt supplemented with BB536 significantly alleviated eye symptoms compared with placebo yoghurt (odds ratio 0.31; 95% confidence interval 0.10-0.97; p = 0.044). Although no statistically significant differences were detected, nasal symptoms such as itching, rhinorrhea, and blockage, as well as throat symptoms tended to be relieved with the BB536 yoghurt. BB536 tended to suppress the decreasing blood levels of interferon-gamma (IFN-y) and the increasing blood eosinophil rates; a significantly higher IFN-gamma level was observed for the difference from baseline at week 4. A decreased trend in the difference from baseline levels of JCP-specific IgE levels was also observed at week 4 in the BB536 group compared with the placebo group. In conclusion, these results suggest that intake of BB536-supplemented yoghurt may relieve JCPsis symptoms, probably through a modulating effect on Th balance.

Quantum oscillation of Hall resistance in the extreme quantum limit of an organic conductor (TMTSF)2ClO4

We report resistance and magnetic torque experiments under a high magnetic field up to 45 T in a three dimensional quantum Hall (QH) system (TMTSF)(2)ClO(4), where TMTSF = tetramethyltetraselenafulvalene. The Hall resistance shows huge oscillations accompanied with sign reversal after the final QH state, where the Landau level filling factor is unity, is removed above 26 T. The magnetic torque also oscillates with the field. The results suggest that a novel quantum state, where the character of the carriers periodically changes with the field, is stabilized in the extreme quantum limit.

Polymorphisms in ADAM33 are associated with allergic rhinitis due to Japanese cedar pollen

BACKGROUND

A recent report provided evidence that a disintegrin and metalloprotease domain 33 (ADAM33), a member of the ADAM family, is a novel susceptibility gene in asthma linked to bronchial hyper-responsiveness. However, there has been no investigation of the genetic role of ADAM33 variants in nasal allergy.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to test the association between ADAM33 polymorphisms and Japanese cedar pollinosis (JCPsis), a most common seasonal allergic rhinitis in Japan.

METHODS

We conducted a case-control association study among a Japanese population, involving 95 adult individuals with JCPsis and 95 normal healthy controls. A total of 22 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in ADAM33 were genotyped using PCR-based molecular methods.

RESULTS

Six SNPs of ADAM33 gene, three in introns (7575G/A, 9073G/A and 12540C/T) and three in the coding region (10918G/C, 12433T/C and 12462C/T), were strongly associated with JCPsis (P = 0.0002-0.022 for absolute allele frequencies) and most of the SNPs were in linkage disequilibrium with each other. A higher frequency of the common alleles of these SNPs was noted for the subjects with JCPsis in comparison with healthy controls. We also identified a haplotype associated with the disease susceptibility. In addition, associations were found between ADAM33 polymorphisms and various cedar pollinosis phenotypes including clinical severity, eosinophil counts in nasal secretion and allergen-specific IgE levels in sera, but not total serum IgE levels.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that polymorphisms in the ADAM33 gene are associated with susceptibility to allergic rhinitis due to Japanese cedar pollen, but the functional relationship still needs clarification.

Effects of lysed Enterococcus faecalis FK-23 on allergen-induced serum antibody responses and active cutaneous anaphylaxis in mice

BACKGROUND

Our previous studies have presented evidence that lysed Enterococcus faecalis FK-23 (LFK), a lysozyme and heat-treated probiotic product, can inhibit allergen-induced local accumulation of eosinophils in mice.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this experimental study was to evaluate the influence of orally administrated LFK on the host immune responses.

METHODS

BALB/c mice were sensitized subcutaneously, and challenged intraperitoneally by cedar pollen allergen. Blood and spleen samples were collected after oral administration of LFK 60 mg/day for 21 days. The serum levels of total and allergen-specific IgE and IgG2a antibodies and the production of IL-4, IL-5 and IFN-gamma generated by allergen-stimulated cultured splenocytes were determined. Additionally, the effect of LFK on active cutaneous anaphylaxis (ACA) induced by ovalbumin (OVA) challenge in mice was measured after 28 days LFK treatment.

RESULTS

No significant differences in serum immunoglobulin levels, as well as in cytokine production of splenocytes were observed between LFK-treated and control mice (P>0.05). There was, however, an increasing tendency of allergen-specific IgG2a level in mice after LFK treatment for 21 days compared with controls (P=0.060). Furthermore, the serum ratio of specific IgE to IgG2a was found to be significantly decreased in the LFK group (P=0.005). In addition, a significant inhibition of OVA-induced ACA reaction was observed in mice that had been fed for 28 days with LFK compared with control mice (P=0.008).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that LFK shows an anti-inflammatory effect, which may be part of the mechanism for protection against IgE-mediated allergy.

Keratinocyte-specific POU transcription factor hSkn-1a represses the growth of cervical cancer cell lines

The POU transcription factor human Skn-1a (hSkn-1a) specifically promotes the proliferation of keratinocytes and enhances their differentiation. We examined the effects of hSkn-1a on cervical cancer cell lines of epithelial origin, in which the differentiation program is interrupted. From HeLa/Tet-On, a clone that can be induced to make hSkn-1a by doxycycline (HeLa/hSkn-1a) was prepared and characterized. Shortly after the induction, the cells expressed cytokeratin 10 (K10), a major marker protein in differentiating keratinocytes. While maintained for several days in the presence of doxycycline, the HeLa/hSkn-1a cells showed a slightly prolonged time of population doubling, the occasional appearance of flat cells with lowered DNA synthesis, and a low level of apoptotic DNA fragmentation. In SiHa and HeLa S3 cultures, K10 mRNA and apoptotic DNA fragmentation were detected at 48 h after infection with an adenoviral vector capable of expressing hSkn-1a. A colony inhibition assay showed that the growth of HeLa S3, SiHa, CaSki, and C-33A cells was repressed, as seen from the decreased number and average size of the drug-resistant colonies at 2 or 3 weeks after transfection with a plasmid that can express hSkn-1a and neomycin resistance gene. These results suggest that the expression of hSkn-1a represses the growth of the cervical cancer cells through the partial resumption of the differentiation pathway followed by slow suppression of cell replication and apoptosis.

Hypertriglyceridemia associated with decreased post-heparin plasma hepatic triglyceride lipase activity in hypoxic rats

Exposure of sated rats to 45% N2 in air for 5h increased serum triglyceride levels by 212% over the levels in normoxic rats. This increase in triglyceride levels was accompanied by a decrease in plasma triglyceride hydrolase activity after intravenous injection of heparin. Further fractionation of the activity by inhibition of lipoprotein lipase indicated that the low triglyceride hydrolase activity is mainly due to a reduction in hepatic triglyceride lipase, which is inversely correlated with the serum triglyceride level. The hypoxic exposure decreased the arterial blood [acetoacetate]/[beta-hydroxybutyrate] ratio in the sated rats, which is believed to reflect the oxidation-reduction state in hepatic mitochondria, but did not affect the level of serum enzymes indicative of tissue damage. On the other hand, triglyceride levels did not change during hypoxic exposure in fasted rats. Thus, hypertriglyceridemia in sated rats following exposure to hypoxia may result from impaired removal of circulating triglycerides by hepatic triglyceride lipase located in the sinusoidal surface of the liver.

Genes up- or down-regulated by expression of keratinocyte-specific POU transcription factor hSkn-1a

The keratinocyte-specific POU transcription factor hSkn-1a is believed to trigger and regulate the differentiation of keratinocytes. To find genes regulated by hSkn-1a, we compared mRNAs in a HeLa clone (HeLa/hSkn-1a) that contains an inducible hSkn-1a gene between before and after the induction. RNA was screened for binding to DNA microarrays and candidate RNAs were further examined by two PCR methods. Quantitative RT-PCR showed that hSkn-1a up-regulated Cx43 and ARHH genes, besides the two genes of differentiation markers K10 and TG1, and down-regulated Mx2 and RALGDS genes in the HeLa cells. To know whether this finding is applicable to keratinocyte differentiation, we examined in human primary keratinocyte cultures the mRNAs for those six genes, along with the hSkn-1a gene, before and after the cells achieved confluence. Quantitative RT-PCR showed that in the differentiating confluent cells mRNAs increased for hSkn-1a, K10, TG1, Cx43, ARHH, and RALGDS, but decreased for Mx2. Thus, it appears that in keratinocyte differentiation Cx43, ARHH, and RALGDS genes were newly identified as up-regulated by hSkn-1a and Mx2 gene, as down-regulated. To study how hSkn-1a regulates those genes we cloned and sequenced putative transcriptional control regions for Cx43, ARHH, and Mx2 genes, in which several hSkn-1a-binding sequences were located. Expression of the luciferase gene from the isolated ARHH promoter was enhanced by the induction of hSkn-1a in HeLa/hSkn-1a and deletion or substitution mutation of the hSkn-1a-binding sequences reduced the expression, suggesting that hSkn-1a activates ARHH gene by binding to its promoter.

Underestimation of intraocular pressure in eyes after laser in situ keratomileusis

PURPOSE

Retrospectively, we reviewed the records of 65 patients (115 eyes) regarding the intraocular pressure (IOP) after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK).

METHODS

The mean patient age was 31.2 +/- 10.5 years. The average preoperative spherical equivalent was -6.85 +/- 2.54 diopters. A noncontact pneumatic tonometer and a Goldmann applanation tonometer were used in measuring the IOP.

RESULTS

The IOP after LASIK was significantly lower than that before surgery (Mann-Whitney U-test). The IOP correlated significantly with the corrected diopter value, corneal thickness, and corneal curvature (Spearman rank correlation).

CONCLUSIONS

The postoperative IOP can be underestimated due to decreased corneal thickness and curvature. When evaluating IOP after LASIK surgery, this possibility should be carefully investigated.

[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.

Detection of t(I 1; 18) in MALT-type lymphoma with dual-color fluorescence in situ hybridization and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction analysis

t(11:8) is a recurrent chromosomal abnormality observed in mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT)-type lymphoma. API2 and MLT genes have been implicated. The authors devised a dual-color interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) system to detect splitting of 11q22 and its fusion with 18q21. Subjects were 44 cases of extranodal lymphoma and cases of primary macroglobulinemia. Whenever RNA was available, reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction followed by sequence analysis was performed. Positive cases by dual-color FISH analysis were restricted to MALT-type lymphoma and one case of primary macroglobulinemia. Among 24 cases of MALT-type lymphoma, 14 (58%) (4 gastric, 5 pulmonary, 3 orbital, 1 salivary, and 1 thyroid lymphomas) had splitting of the 11q22 region probes and fusion of signals suggesting the translocation of chromosome 11 and 18. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction analysis showed the API2/MLT gene fusion in 9 of 10 cases. Sequence analyses showed three different modes of involvement of the MLT gene, whereas the breakpoint at API2 was the same. Monoclonal component of serum immunoglobulin M was observed in 3 of 14 positive cases for the translocation. Direct visualization using dual-color FISH on samples serves as a molecular tool for management of MALT-type lymphoma with API2/MLT gene fusion.

[Underestimation of intraocular pressure after laser in situ keratomileusis]

PURPOSE

We reviewed 115 eyes of 65 patients regarding the intraocular pressure(IOP) following laser in situ keratomileusis(LASIK).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The ages averaged 31.2 +/- 10.5(mean +/- standard deviation) years. The preoperative spherical equivalent averaged -6.85 +/- 2.54 (mean +/- standard deviation) D. A noncontact pneumatic tonometer and Goldmann applanation tonometer were used in measuring the IOP.

RESULTS

The IOP difference before and after surgery was statistically significant(Mann-Whitney U test). The IOP was significantly corrected with the corrected diopter value, corneal thickness, and corneal curvature(Spearman coefficient by rank).

CONCLUSION

The findings show that postoperative IOP may be underestimated due to decreased corneal thickness and curvature. Due attention has to be paid to this feature in evaluating IOP after LASIK.

Right atrial rupture in blunt chest trauma

The mortality rate from cardiac rupture by blunt chest injury is high. Here, we report a case of 27-year-old male who suffered a right atrial rupture by blunt chest injury and was successfully treated. The hemodynamics were stabilized by pericardiocentesis with a 5F Pigtail catheter for cardiac tamponade and rapid fluid transfusion. Then the right atrial rupture was repaired without a cardiopulmonary bypass. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on the 14th postoperative day.

Lymph node metastasis from breast cancer diagnosed by F-18 FDG whole-body PET (case report)

We report a 48-year-old woman with lymph node (LN) metastases from breast cancer in whom diagnosis was difficult by conventional imaging methods but easy by F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET. She was given a diagnosis of right breast cancer and then underwent modified radical mastectomy in December 1997. During routine CT and US studies in September 1998, a questionable LN measuring 1 cm in diameter was detected in the right supraclavicular region, but a definitive diagnosis of this LN was difficult by these tests. The patient underwent FDG PET test, which showed strong nodular activity (SUV= 7.1) in the right supraclavicular region, indicating a metastatic lesion. Moreover, an unexpected second metastatic LN lesion (SUV= 5.5) in the medial aspect of the right axillary was diagnosed by PET. The PET results were confirmed by pathological examination of the surgical specimens. FDG PET is a useful tool to detect small malignant lesions that are not easily diagnosed by conventional imaging techniques such as CT and US. It is expected that PET test will be feasible at many institutions.

Resistance to fulminant hepatitis and carcinogenesis conferred by overexpression of retinoblastoma protein in mouse liver

Previously, retinoblastoma (Rb) transgenic mice were produced under the control of the Rb gene promoter and showed dwarf characteristics. Here, we created transgenic mice, in which the human Rb gene was controlled by the hepatocyte nuclear factor-1 gene promoter/enhancer and was expressed primarily in the liver. The liver of these novel transgenic mice was normally developed. Intriguingly, these mice showed resistance to fulminant hepatitis induced by anti-Fas antibody as well as resistance to chemical carcinogenesis in the liver. These results show that the Rb protein acts as an anti-apoptotic and anti-oncogenic agent in vivo. Our novel construct may be useful as a gene cassette in gene therapy for prevention of fulminant hepatitis and hepatoma.

Antagonistic effects of selective alpha1-adrenoceptor antagonists MDL73005EF and tamsulosin and partial agonists clonidine and tizanidine in rat thoracic aorta and rabbit iliac artery

The antagonistic effects of MDL73005EF and tamsulosin and partial agonists clonidine and tizanidine at rat thoracic aorta and rabbit iliac artery alpha1-adrenoceptors were investigated in this study. Selective alpha1-adrenoceptor antagonists MDL73005EF and tamsulosin dose-dependently shifted the concentration-response curves for noradrenaline to the right. Schild plots of the results obtained from the inhibition by MDL73005EF (pA2 8.30 +/- 0.04) and tamsulosin (pA2 10.51 +/- 0.06) of noradrenaline yielded a straight line with a slope of unity in rat thoracic aorta. The slopes of Schild plots obtained from the inhibition by MDL73005EF and tamsulosin of noradrenaline were significantly different from unity in rabbit iliac artery. Schild plots of the results obtained from the inhibition by clonidine and tizanidine of noradrenaline yielded a straight line with a slope of unity in rat thoracic aorta (pA2 7.08 +/- 0.04 and 7.32 +/- 0.04, respectively). These results suggest that alpha1D-adrenoceptors play a significant role in the alpha1-adrenoceptor-agonist-induced contraction of rat thoracic aorta and rabbit iliac artery, and that clonidine and tizanidine interact with the alpha1D-adrenoceptor subtype as competitive antagonists in rat thoracic aorta.

Cloning and embryonic expression patterns of the zebrafish Runt domain genes, runxa and runxb

We isolated zebrafish homologues of the Runt-related transcription factor gene family (Runx family), runxa and runxb, and analyzed their developmental expression patterns. The deduced amino acid sequence of Runxa was highly homologous to that of AML1 (also called CBFA2, PEBP2alphaB or Runx1), a critical regulator of mammalian hematopoiesis expressed in cells of the hematopoietic lineage as well as other tissues. During zebrafish development, the runxa gene was not expressed in hematopoietic tissues but in the olfactory placodes and cells attached to the otic vesicles. We identified three kinds of runxb transcripts, which encoded two types of proteins with different N-terminal regions. The Runxb proteins were highly similar to AML2 (CBFA3, PEBP2alphaC or Runx3). The expression sites of the shared region of runxb mRNAs during development were the trigeminal ganglions, dorsal neurons of the neural tube and the lateral line primordia. These findings show that expression patterns of the zebrafish Runx genes are distinct from that of the mammalian genes.

HGF/SF-induced spreading of MDCK cells correlates with disappearance of barmotin/7H6, a tight junction-associated protein, from the cell membrane

Changes in expression of the two tight junction-associated proteins, barmotin/7H6 and ZO-1, as well as the adherence junction-associated protein, E-cadherin, were followed during hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor (HGF/SC)-induced migration process of MDCK cells. Modulation of the HGF/SF-induced migration process by staurosporine, an inhibitor of protein kinase C (PKC), was also examined. Cell migration induced by HGF/SF consisted of two distinct phases, initial cell spreading between 2 and 9 h after the start of treatment, and the scattering phase which started approximately 12 h after treatment. Both ZO-1 and E-cadherin were expressed at the cell-cell border of adherent cells in the scattering phase, whereas barmotin/7H6, a barrier function-related tight junction protein, was not seen during the early spreading phase. Confluent cultures of MDCK cells, which did not spread after HGF/SF treatment, were positive for barmotin/7H6 expression at cell-cell borders. Blocking PKC activation during HGF/SF treatment with staurosporine inhibited cell spreading, and the cells retained barmotin/7H6 expression until at 6 h after HGF/SF treatment. The results indicate that disappearance of the tight junction protein, barmotin/7H6, is closely associated with cell spreading, with both barmotin/7H6 expression and cell spreading seemingly being regulated by PKC-mediated signaling.

High throughput screening for human interferon-gamma production inhibitor using homogenous time-resolved fluorescence

An immunoassay for interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) using homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence (HTRF) has been developed. In this assay, IFN-gamma can be detected by simply adding a mixture of three reagents-biotinylated polyclonal antibody, europium cryptate (fluorescence donor, EuK)-labeled monoclonal antibody, and crosslinked allophycocyanin (fluorescence acceptor, XL665) conjugated with streptavidin-and then measuring the time-resolved fluorescence. The detection limit of IFN-gamma by the proposed method is about 625 pg/ml. We applied the method to the detection of IFN-gamma secreted from NK3.3 cells and employed it in high throughput screening for IFN-gamma production inhibitors. With this screening format, IFN-gamma can be measured by directly adding the above reagents to microplate wells where NK3.3 cells are being cultured and stimulated with interleukin-12. This "in situ" immunoassay requires only pipetting reagents, with no need to transfer the culture supernatant to another microplate or wash the plate. Therefore, this screening format makes possible full automation of cell-based immunoassay, thus reducing cost and experimental time while increasing accuracy and throughput.

Increased formation of oxidative DNA damage, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, in human breast cancer tissue and its relationship to GSTP1 and COMT genotypes

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced damage to DNA plays a major role in carcinogenesis. In order to estimate the level of oxidative damage and its role in breast cancer, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) was determined in DNA isolated from human breast tissue. Furthermore, we investigated whether polymorphisms in genes for enzymes involved in generation and elimination of ROS had any association with the level of 8-OHdG in breast tissue. In this study, the level of 8-OHdG in DNA was measured by the high performance liquid chromatography-electrochemical detector (HPLC-ECD) method. Genotypes of cytochrome P450 (CYP)1A1, glutathione S-transferase (GST)M 1, GSTP1 and catechol O-methyltransferase (COMT) were determined by PCR-based restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. A total of 61 Japanese patients were included in the study. The mean level of 8-OHdG in DNA of breast cancer tissues was 2.07 +/- 0.95 per 10(5) dG residues, while the mean level of 8-OHdG in DNA of non-cancerous breast tissues was 1.34 +/- 0.46 per 10(5) dG residues. The 8-OHdG levels in DNA of breast cancer tissues were significantly higher than those of their corresponding non-cancerous breast tissues (P < 0.0001). There was negative correlation between the clinical stage and the mean level of 8-OHdG in DNA of breast cancer tissues. Furthermore, patients with genotype of high GSTP1 activity had lower level of 8-OHdG in DNA of breast cancer tissues than others. On the contrary, the mean level of 8-OHdG in DNA of breast cancer tissues was higher among patients with genotype of high COMT activity. Our findings support the assumption that cancer cells are more exposed to oxidative stress than adjacent non-cancerous tissue. Genetic polymorphisms in enzymes involved in ROS metabolism may have a role in individual susceptibility to oxidant-related breast disease. At the same time, reduction of oxidative stress is thought to be a very important measure for primary prevention of breast cancer.

Storage of lipid droplets in and production of extracellular matrix by hepatic stellate cells (vitamin A-storing cells) in Long-Evans cinnamon-like colored (LEC) rats

LEC rats spontaneously develop hepatocellular carcinoma with cholangiofibrosis after chronic hepatitis, but the mechanism of development of the hepatic injury is not clear. To investigate the role of hepatic stellate cells in induction or suppression of hepatic fibrosis, we morphologically examined the liver of LEC rats. Accumulation of copper was analyzed by the Danscher-Timm's sulfide-silver method. Histopathological changes were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining, and by Masson's trichrome method. Activated stellate cells were identified by immunostaining method for alpha-smooth muscle actin. Cytological alterations of the stellate cells were investigated by transmission electron microscopy. To evaluate the lipid content in the stellate cells, we analyzed the area of lipid droplets of the cells by morphometric analysis. Also for evaluation of the changes in the number of stellate cells, the numbers of nucleated stellate cells and parenchymal cells were counted and statistically analyzed. Hepatic parenchymal cells showed excessive accumulation of copper at 5 weeks of age. Submassive necrosis was observed at 19 weeks of age. The liver of LEC rats 1.5 years of age showed cholangiofibrosis and subcellular injury of hepatic parenchymal cells. However, no diffuse hepatic fibrosis was observed in the liver, and hepatic stellate cells around the regions of cholangiofibrosis were negative for alpha-smooth muscle actin. The area of lipid droplets of a stellate cell in the liver of LEC rats was 1.6 to 1.8 times as large as that of normal Wistar rats. The hepatic stellate cells did not participate in the accumulation of collagen fibers around themselves when the cells contained a large amount of vitamin A-lipid droplets, even though the development of hepatic lesions was in progress. Our present data are consistent with our previous hypothesis that there is an antagonistic relationship between the storage of vitamin A and the production of collagen in stellate cells.

Progression of human breast cancers to the metastatic state is linked to genotypes of catechol-O-methyltransferase

There is increasing evidence that catecholestrogens may contribute to the development of breast cancer. Specifically, inactivation of catecholestrogens may prevent the genesis and arrest the progression of the disease. Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), Glutathione S-transferase (GST) M1 and GSTP1 are responsible for the detoxification of catecholestrogens, and are polymorphic in the human population. In this study, a PCR-based restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis was performed to determine genotypes of the COMT, GSTM1 and GSTP1 genes. We investigated the relationship between the germline polymorphism of these genes and clinico-pathological characteristics in 140 patients with breast cancer. Among 73 patients with the low activity COMT allele, 49 (67%) had regional lymph node metastasis. On the other hand, only 27 (40%) of 67 patients without the low activity allele had lymph node metastasis. The COMT genotype was significantly associated with clinical stage and the extent of regional lymph node metastasis of breast cancer (P<0.05). However, polymorphisms of the GSTM1 and GSTP1 gene were not associated with clinico-pathological factors. Our findings suggest that the allele encoding for low activity COMT may contribute to the progression of breast cancer.

[Visiting nurse for a terminal ALS patient]

The authors' hospital is a 585-bed hospital under the direct management of the National Health Insurance System. The hospital has been providing visiting nurses for the past 8 years, who work from local medical centers and the Visiting Nurses Department. Thirty-seven patients have received such home care, among whom 8 had intractable disease. Patient S was a 46-year-old woman who suffered from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The onset of the disease was in April, 1993, when the patient experienced muscular atrophy in both legs and deteriorating muscular strength. The diagnosis was definitive in 1995. On March 1, 1998, the patient received emergency hospitalization for breathing difficulties and aspiration pneumonia, and on March 5 underwent tracheotomy. A cannula had to be inserted for tubal feeding, and the physician in charge explained to her family that her prognosis was 3 months. Both the patient and her family desired home care, and the patient returned home on April 11. Respecting the wishes of the patient, the visiting nurse provided support so that home treatment could be continued. In the end, the patient lived at home while receiving home treatment for 7 months. Through the support provided by the visiting nurse, efforts were made to keep the patient's condition stable, and she was able to continue home treatment and living at home for a higher quality of life.

[Rethinking the visiting nurse system at a major regional hospital]

The authors' hospital is a National Health Insurance System Hospital near four cities. It serves as the central hospital for a region with a population of about 330,000 people. The hospital has 585 beds and sees an average of 1,500 outpatients each day. The average number of hospitalized patients each day is 500. Its visiting nurse department is located in a regional medical center and functions as a "Visiting Nurse Center". The purpose of the present study was to review the visiting nurse system at our hospital that has been operating for the past 8 years. The motivation for this review was our intention to actively increase the number of people advantage of such services, and attempt to provide continuous care for each individual patient. By looking back on the system as it has been practiced, its procedures, and results during the 8 years from 1990 to 1997, we can consider points for improvement from among the problem points discovered. The problems uncovered in our practice of home nursing care are listed below. 1. It is difficult to present a list with an estimated period for the release from the hospital. 2. Instructions for leaving the hospital are not sufficiently detailed. 3. Arranging the schedule and actual visits for diagnosis and treatment is complex. 4. The system for cooperation with the activities that are done in the hospital is insufficient. 5. The system for cooperation with local public health nurses is insufficient. 6. The system for managing equipment is insufficient. 7. The 24-hour support system for terminal patients is inadequate.