Biochemical properties of the P42 protein encoded by RNA segment 6 of influenza C virus

P42, encoded by a colinear transcript of Influenza C virus RNA segment 6 (M gene), is an integral membrane protein which is cleaved by signal peptidase to generate M1' and CM2 composed of N-terminal 259 amino acids and C-terminal 115 amino acids, respectively. Herein, the biochemical features of P42 were investigated. N-glycosylated form of P42, designated P44, forms disulphide-linked dimers and tetramers. P44 is transported to the Golgi apparatus, but not to the trans-Golgi, since P44 is completely sensitive to endoglycosidase H. P44 and P42 are unstable irrespective of N-glycosylation or oligomerization. 26S proteasome inhibitor, lactacystin prevented the degradation of P42 as well as M1', but not that of P44 efficiently, suggesting that P44 is degraded by another protease besides the 26S proteasome.

Explanations for the smoking paradox in Japan

The prevalence of cigarette smoking among Japanese men has been consistently high compared with Western males over the past 30 years. However, during the same period, the incidence of and mortality rates for lung cancer have consistently been lower in Japan than in Western countries ('Japanese smoking paradox'). The odds ratio/relative risk of cigarette smoking for lung cancer mortality/incidence relative to the same number of cigarettes smoked per capita in Japan, were apparently lower than those in Western countries. This must be the cause driving the 'Japanese smoking paradox'. Furthermore, low carcinogenic ingredients in Japanese cigarettes and a congenitally-related resistance to smoking-related lung carcinogenesis emerged as the main factors which have brought the 'Japanese smoking paradox'.

Detection of ion channel activity in Xenopus laevis oocytes expressing Influenza C virus CM2 protein

To demonstrate the ion channel activity of Influenza C virus CM2, we expressed this protein in oocytes of Xenopus laevis and measured whole cell currents by a two-electrode voltage-clamp method. It was found that the inward currents were induced upon hyperpolarizing the oocyte membranes. The amplitude of the currents increased slowly with time during the hyperpolarizing pulse, and the current-voltage relationship was nonlinear, having a slope that increased with the level of hyperpolarization. These results suggest strongly that CM2 forms a voltage-activated ion channel. The current amplitude was increased to a small extent by lowering the external pH. We also found that the anti-influenza A virus drug amantadine hydrochloride failed to attenuate the inward currents of CM2-expressing oocytes induced by hyperpolarization. The reversal voltage of tail currents was affected by the reduction of [Cl-], but neither by the change of [Na+] nor by that of [K+]. Furthermore, the amplitude of the inward currents was decreased by an anion channel blocker. The data presented here suggest that CM2 protein forms a voltage-activated ion channel permeable to chloride ion.

Identification of Thermus thermophilus HB8 tRNA (Gm18) methyltransferase gene

For the purpose of identification of the gene for Thermus thermophilus tRNA (Gm18) methyltransferase [tRNA (guanosine-2'-)-methyltransferase, EC 2.1.1.34], the purified enzyme from native source was analyzed by the peptide-mass mapping. The target gene encoded the amino acid sequences of the obtained peptides was searched in data from Thermus thermophilus HB8 genome-sequencing project. We found the target gene AB05130, which was expected to encode a protein composed of 194 amino acid residues and the molecular mass of this protein was calculated as 22083. The recombinant protein was expressed in E. coli as an active form. The Gm18 formation activity of the purified recombinant protein was confirmed by in vitro methylation followed by two-dimensional thin layer chromatography and Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrum analysis of substrate tRNA.

Effects of therapeutic passive exercise of hip and knee joints on the soleus H-reflex

The effect of passive movement of a leg on alpha-motoneurons of the soleus was investigated while the ankle was immobilized. Electrophysiological parameters of the H-reflex were used. Nineteen fully informed volunteers with no history of neurological or internal disease participated in the study. The mean age across all the experiments was 20.9 years. Contributions to the modulation of the soleus H-reflex by hip and knee joint movements were analyzed in two tasks. These were the most general movement methods used in physical therapy. Soleus H-reflexes were measured six times per experiment. Stimulation intensity was set at the 1.1 x M-wave threshold.

RESULTS

1. In both exercises, H/M decreased as flexion progressed with fast or slow movement. The quadriceps femoris inhibited soleus muscle alpha-motoneurons in both experiments. 2. H/M increased on initiation of extension in the two-joint exercise. In the single-joint exercise, inhibition was retained through the extension phase during both fast and slow movements. Hamstring effects were strong during extension of the leg. 3. In both exercises, the H/M for fast movement was lower than for slow movement at all angles, indicative that H/M decreases with fast movement irrespective of the effects produced by the hip joint.

Helicobacter pylori water soluble surface proteins prime human neutrophils for enhanced production of reactive oxygen species and stimulate chemokine production

BACKGROUNDS/AIMS

Chronic gastritis induced by Helicobacter pylori is characterised by considerable neutrophil infiltration into the gastric mucosa without mucosal invasion of bacteria. Bacteria have different characteristics with respect to their ability to stimulate human neutrophils to produce reactive oxygen species and chemokines. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of H pylori water extracts on the oxidative burst and chemokine production of human neutrophils.

METHODS

Helicobacter pylori cells were extracted by harvesting into distilled water and centrifugation. Neutrophils were incubated with H pylori water extracts and the production of reactive oxygen species was measured using luminol dependent chemiluminescence (LmCL). In addition, the concentrations of chemokines (interleukin 8 (IL-8), macrophage inflammatory protein 1-alpha (MIP1-alpha), and MIP1-beta) were measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Neutrophils were also stimulated by opsonised zymosan (OZ) after preincubation with H pylori water extracts.

RESULTS

Helicobacter pylori water extracts alone induced only a weak oxidative burst but preincubation of neutrophils with water extracts dose dependently enhanced the LmCL response stimulated by OZ. Helicobacter pylori water extracts also stimulated neutrophil IL-8 production, although MIP-1beta production was only stimulated weakly, and MIP-1alpha was not stimulated at all.

CONCLUSIONS

Helicobacter pylori products in water extracts may have a role in the activation and migration of neutrophils, which results in enhanced oxidative damage to gastric mucosa. These findings may explain the pathology of H pylori induced gastritis, in which there is little invasion of bacteria into the gastric mucosa.

Development of predictive equations for body density of sumo wrestlers using B-mode ultrasound for the determination of subcutaneous fat thickness

OBJECTIVE

To develop an equation for predicting the body density of sumo wrestlers.

METHODS

The following were measured: subcutaneous fat thickness measured at nine sites using B-mode ultrasound equipment; circumference at seven sites; hand to leg bioelectrical impedance. The subjects consisted of 24 college sumo wrestlers (mean age 19.7 years, mean body weight 111.2 kg) and 24 matched obese controls (mean age 19.1 years and mean body weight 111.2 kg). In addition, body density was measured by the underwater weighing method, and the percentage of fat was calculated from the measured body density.

RESULTS

Linear regression analysis was used to estimate the relation between body density and other variables, and a predictive equation for the body density was derived: y = 1.088-0.00036 x (fat thickness at nine sites) (r(2) = 0.90) for the sumo wrestler group and y = 1.083-0.00033 x (fat thickness at nine sites) (r(2) = 0.91) for the control group. A multiple regression analysis was performed using the body density as the objective variable, and other measured items as the explanatory variables. This was used to derive a predictive equation: y = 1.121-0.00038 x (fat thickness of abdomen)-0.00043 x (circumference of hips)-0.00142 x (fat thickness of triceps) (r(2) = 0.94) for the sumo wrestler group, and y = 1.076-0.00070 x (fat thickness of abdomen)-0.00140 x (fat thickness of tibialis) (r(2) = 0.91) for the control group. The difference between the two equations was due to the difference in body fat distribution. Neither of these predictive equations is applicable to non-overweight non-athletes.

CONCLUSION

This is the first predictive equation developed for the body density of sumo wrestlers.

Frequent reassortment among influenza C viruses

In a 9-year survey from December 1990 to December 1999 in Sendai City, Japan, we succeeded in isolating a total of 45 strains of influenza C virus. These 45 strains were isolated in clusters within 4 months in a year, especially from winter to early summer. Previous studies of the hemagglutinin-esterase genes of various influenza C virus isolates revealed the existence of five distinct virus lineages (Aichi/1/81-, Yamagata/26/81-, Mississippi/80-, Sao Paulo/82-, and Kanagawa/1/76-related lineage) in Japan between 1970 and the early 1990s (Y. Matsuzaki, K. Mizuta, H. Kimura, K. Sugawara, E. Tsuchiya, H. Suzuki, S. Hongo, and K. Nakamura, J. Gen. Virol. 81:1447-1452, 2000). Antigenic and genetic analyses of the 45 strains showed that they could be divided into these five virus lineages and a few antigenic groups were cocirculating in Sendai City. In 1990 and 1991 the dominant antigenic group was the Aichi/1/81 virus group, and in 1992 it was Yamagata/26/81 virus group. The Mississippi/80 virus group was isolated from 1993 to 1996, and the Yamagata/26/81 virus group reemerged in 1996 and continued to circulate until 1999. This finding led us to a speculation that the replacement of the dominant antigenic groups had occurred by immune selection within the human population in the restricted area. Phylogenetic analysis of seven RNA segments showed that 44 viruses among the 45 strains isolated in our surveillance work were reassortant viruses that have various genome compositions distinguishable from those of the reference strains of the each lineage. This observation suggests that the reassortment between two different influenza C virus strains occurs frequently in nature and the genome composition of influenza C viruses may influence their ability to spread in humans.

Relationship between mineral and trace element concentrations in drinking water and gastric cancer mortality in Japan

It is well known that the incidence and mortality from gastric cancer in Japan are the highest in the world. This is thought to be due, in part, to dietary habit, including a high salt intake. There are, however, no epidemiological reports to describe the relationship between ingestion of mineral and trace elements and gastric carcinogenesis. In this study, we determined the concentrations of 14 elements in drinking water from 34 water treatment plants in Aomori Prefecture, Japan, and studied how element concentrations were geographically associated with gastric cancer mortality rate. Gastric cancer mortality was calculated from the data of the Annual Aomori Health Report. Multiple regression analysis (stepwise method of decreasing the number of variables) was performed by using age-adjusted mortality of gastric cancer by gender as objective variables and each element concentration as an explanatory variable. The standardized partial regression coefficient was significant in men for zinc (-0.59, P = 0.004), lead (1.01, P = 0.013), strontium (1.23, P = 0.007), and selenium (-1.62, P = 0.004), whereas it was significant in women for lead (-0.65, P = 0.022), strontium (0.51, P = 0.035), and gold (0.70, P = 0.019). It is suggested that selenium and zinc may aid in the prevention of gastric carcinogenesis. However, the significant relationship of sodium (a component of salt) to gastric carcinogenesis was not observed, although many previous epidemiological studies in Japan have shown this relationship.

A variable number of tandem repeats in the serotonin transporter gene does not affect the antidepressant response to fluvoxamine

A variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) in the second intron of the serotonin transporter gene (STin2) has been studied in association with the susceptibility to affective disorders. Recently, it was reported that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors were more effective in patients with major depressive disorder having the homozygous allele pair (12-copy/12-copy) of VNTR in the STin2 than in ones having other allele combinations. As the study had methodological problems, further studies are needed to confirm the above finding. Therefore, the authors investigated whether the allelic variation of VNTR in the STin2 was associated with the antidepressant response to fluvoxamine in 66 patients with major depressive disorder. Fluvoxamine was prescribed up to 200 mg/day in the dosing protocol for 6 weeks. The present study showed no significant association between the polymorphism of VNTR in the STin2 and the treatment response to fluvoxamine.

Clinical study comparing bleeding and nonbleeding rectal varices

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Although rectal varices constitute an important cause of lower digestive tract bleeding in patients with portal hypertension, the etiology and pathology of rectal varices remains controversial, and adequate treatment for rectal varices has yet to be established. In this study, we evaluated rectal varices to identify any common characteristics of varices which are susceptible to hemorrhage.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The patients included 40 individuals with rectal varices among 425 patients with portal hypertension who had been treated in our institution. We retrospectively examined patient data regarding underlying hepatic diseases, hepatic function and endoscopic findings with regard to varices.

RESULTS

Bleeding from rectal varices occurred in 15 of the 40 patients. Although the prevalence of hemorrhage tended to increase with exacerbation of hepatic dysfunction, no significant differences were found. Similarly, although the incidence of hemorrhage tended to be somewhat higher in patients who had undergone any treatment for complicated esophageal varices than in patients who had not, no significant difference was found. The prevalence of hemorrhage from rectal varices significantly increased in rectal varices of more advanced form, and the prevalence was significantly higher in patients with positive "red color" sign.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of hemorrhage from rectal varices was significantly higher in patients with rectal varices of advanced form and/or with a positive "red color" sign.

Antigenic and genetic characterization of influenza C viruses which caused two outbreaks in Yamagata City, Japan, in 1996 and 1998

During the 3 years from January 1996 to December 1998, a total of 33 strains of influenza C virus were isolated from 10,726 throat swab specimens collected from children with acute respiratory illness who visited two pediatric clinics in Yamagata City, Japan. These 33 strains were isolated in clusters during two different periods, 20 strains in May to August 1996 and the remaining 13 in March to June 1998. Antigenic analysis with monoclonal antibodies to the hemagglutinin-esterase (HE) glycoprotein and phylogenetic analysis of seven RNA segments showed that the 33 influenza C viruses isolated were antigenically and genetically similar and that they were reassortant viruses which had obtained PB2, PB1, HE, M, and NS genes from a C/pig/Beijing/115/81-like virus and P3 and NP genes from a C/Mississippi/80-like virus. These observations suggest strongly that during the survey period of 3 years, two outbreaks of influenza C occurred in Yamagata City, both of which were caused by a reassortant virus having the genome composition described above.

Antigenic and genetic analyses of influenza B viruses isolated in Lusaka, Zambia in 1999

Previous studies of the hemagglutinin (HA) genes of various influenza B virus isolates demonstrated the existence of two antigenically distinct virus lineages represented by B/Victoria/2/87 and B/Yamagata/16/88, respectively. Here, we investigated the antigenic and genetic characteristics of influenza B viruses isolated from children living in Lusaka, Zambia between January and May 1999. Antigenic analysis with chicken antiviral sera showed that all the Zambian isolates had the HA protein belonging to B/Yamagata/16/88-related lineage. Furthermore, phylogenetic analyses of the eight RNA segments performed by using the total or partial nucleotide sequences of the two representative Zambian strains (B/Lusaka/270/99 and B/Lusaka/432/99) as well as the previously reported sequences suggested that the Zambian viruses are closely related to the recently circulating reassortants represented by B/Shiga/T30/98 and B/Yamanashi/166/98 which acquired the genes coding for three polymerase proteins (PB2, PB1, and PA), HA, nucleoprotein, and matrix protein from a B/Yamagata/16/88-like parent and the gene encoding nonstructural proteins (NS1 and NS2) from a B/Guandong/8/93-like parent.

The effect of the weight reduction on the salivary cortisol levels of judo players

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of weight reduction prior to a competition on the salivary cortisol level for first-rate judo players. Subjects were divided into three groups by the weight reduction rate. On the day before the competition, the cortisol levels of the low- and high-weight reduction group showed a tendency to decrease and were significantly lower than that of the non-weight reduction group (p<0.05). However, with regard to the change in the stress indices, there was a difference between the high- and low-weight reduction groups. In the high-weight reduction group alone, there was a significant increase in the stress indices on the day before the competition (p<0.05). These findings suggest that the HPA axis is affected during the relatively early stage of weight reduction and mental stress is increased at the higher weight reduction rate.

BIP, a BRAM-interacting protein involved in TGF-beta signalling, regulates body length in Caenorhabditis elegans

BACKGROUND

The TGF-beta superfamily has diverse biological activities and is involved in the early development of animals. We previously identified a novel family member, BMP receptor associated molecule (BRAM), which binds to the intracellular domain of BMP type IA receptor and is involved in the BMP signalling pathway.

RESULTS

To identify novel molecules involved in TGF-beta signalling pathways, we performed yeast two-hybrid screening using BRAM as bait. From a Xenopus cDNA library, we cloned a cDNA encoding 693 amino acids and containing the motif for an oxysterol binding protein (OSBP), which we designated BRAM interacting protein (BIP). We then isolated a BIP homologue from the Caenorhabditis elegans that encodes 733 amino acids and also contains the OSBP-like motif. Immunoprecipitation and Western blotting studies revealed that C. elegans BIP could interact with the C. elegans BRAM homologues BRA-1 and BRA-2. C. elegans BIP was expressed in pharyngeal muscle, hypodermis and several neuronal cells, an expression pattern overlaps with those of BRA-1 and BRA-2. Finally, we found that inhibition of BIP expression in C. elegans by double stranded RNA interference produces a Sma phenotype.

CONCLUSIONS

BIP was isolated using the yeast two-hybrid systems. BIP may function in the TGF-beta pathway and regulate body length in C. elegans.

No correlations between the urinary ratio of 6beta-hydroxycortisol to free cortisol and pharmacokinetics of alprazolam

OBJECTIVE

The urinary ratio of 6beta-hydroxycortisol to cortisol is known as a possible marker of CYP3A4 activity. We investigated the correlation between this ratio and the disposition of alprazolam, which is a substrate of CYP3A4.

METHODS

Twelve healthy volunteers took a single dose (0.8 mg) of alprazolam at 0800 hours. Blood samplings were conducted up to 48 h after the dosing. Urine was collected during the 24 h prior to dosing. Quantification of alprazolam in plasma and that of cortisol and 6beta-hydroxycortisol in urine was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

Mean (+/-SD) values of peak plasma concentration (Cmax), time to Cmax (tmax), area under the plasma concentration-time curve [AUC(0-48)] and elimination half-life (tl/2) of alprazolam were 12.0+/-3.0 ng/ml, 1.5+/-0.9 h, 200+/-41 ng/ml h and 16.0+/-4.3 h, respectively. Mean (+/-SD) urinary ratio of 6beta-hydroxycortisol to cortisol was 3.28+/-0.67. No significant correlations were found between urinary ratio of 6beta-hydroxycortisol to cortisol and any pharmacokinetic parameters of alprazolam (Cmax: rs= -0.06; tmax: r(s)= 0.34; AUC(0-48): rs=0.08; t1/2: r(s)= -0.36).

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that the urinary ratio of 6beta-hydroxycortisol to cortisol is unlikely to predict pharmacokinetics of alprazolam.

Effect of sodium butyrate on reactive oxygen species generation by human neutrophils

BACKGROUND

Short-chain fatty acids enema has been shown to be effective in the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC). However, the mechanisms that lead to this response have not been well characterized. The aims of this study were to investigate the effect sodium butyrate has on reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by human neutrophils, which are responsible for mucosal injury.

METHODS

Human neutrophils incubated with or without sodium butyrate were stimulated with opsonized zymosan (OZ) or phorbol myristate acetate (PMA). ROS generation was largely differentiated with flow cytometry assays of hydroethidine oxidation and dichlorofluorescein oxidation for superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide respectively, and luminol-dependent chemiluminescence for myeloperoxidase-mediated oxidants.

RESULTS

Sodium butyrate (up to 50 mM) did not alter hydroethidine oxidation upon stimulation of the OZ or PMA. However, sodium butyrate at a concentration of 25 mM elevated dichlorofluorescein oxidation to 125 + 8% (P = 0.028) of control upon stimulation of OZ and to 191 +/- 30% (P = 0.0016) upon stimulation of PMA. Contrary to these results, sodium butyrate greatly inhibited chemiluminescence responses in a dose-dependent manner. The inhibition by 50 mM sodium butyrate was 61 +/- 6% upon OZ and 71 +/- 9% upon PMA, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

These data indicate that sodium butyrate up-regulates hydrogen peroxide generation but down-regulates generation of myeloperoxidase-mediated oxidants, the latter being more potent in killing microorganisms and in inducing tissue injury. A possible mechanism is suggested whereby sodium butyrate may inhibit myeloperoxidase activity and hence attenuate the destructive activities of neutrophils in UC.

Relationship between some chemical components of herbage, dietary preference and fresh herbage intake rate by the Japanese serow

The serow is a native Japanese mammal and has been designated as a special natural treasure. However, it has been a pest of crops since the 1970s. Since the serow is an indigenous and protected species, it must be controlled without endangering the animal itself. To do this, it is necessary to determine if the serow selects particular crops to consume, and if so, what components of the crop plants influence this choice.In Experiment 1, we measured the preference of four serows for two crop plants and three wild plants, using the cafeteria method. The plants were offered to the animals from 09.00 to 15.30. The serows preferred crop plants to wild plants. The crude protein content of crop plants (28.0 and 32.7%) was higher than that of the other plants (P<0.05). Dry matter (DM) intakes per hour correlated positively with crude protein content (P<0.01) and negatively with nitrogen free extract content (NFE) (P<0.05) and acid detergent fibre content (ADF) (P<0.01) in the offered plants. In Experiment 2, the food intakes of 17 plants consisting of 6 crops and 11 wild plants were measured. Individual 300g samples from each plant were offered for 20min. The serows ate the crops and the forbs in preference to the tree leaves. They consumed little of the conifer tree leaves and the grasses. The dry matter intake and the ADF content were negatively correlated (P<0.05). The dry matter intake and the crude protein content were positively correlated (P=0.054). A multiple regression formula was constructed as follows: Y=1.65CP+0.56NFE+0.38DM-57.45,R(2)=0.54,P=0.016The feeding characteristics suggest that crops might be selected and ingested by the serows because of their higher crude protein, NFE and the dry matter contents.

Role of individual oligosaccharide chains in antigenic properties, intracellular transport, and biological activities of influenza C virus hemagglutinin-esterase protein

The hemagglutinin-esterase (HE) glycoprotein of influenza C virus is composed of three domains: a stem domain active in membrane fusion (F), an acetylesterase domain (E), and a receptor-binding domain (R). The protein contains eight N-linked glycosylation sites, four (positions 26, 395, 552, and 603) in the F domain, three (positions 61, 131, and 144) in the E domain, and one (position 189) in the R domain. Here, we investigated the role of the individual oligosaccharide chains in antigenic properties, intracellular transport, and biological activities of the HE protein by eliminating each of the glycosylation sites by site-specific mutagenesis. Comparison of electrophoretic mobility between the wild-type and the mutant proteins showed that while seven of the glycosylation sites are used, one (position 131) is not. Analysis of reactivity of the mutants with anti-HE monoclonal antibodies demonstrated that glycosylation at position 144 is essential for the formation of conformation-dependent epitopes. It was also evident that glycosylation at the two sites in the F domain (positions 26 and 603), in addition to that in the E domain (position 144), is required for the HE molecule to be transported from the endoplasmic reticulum and that mutant HEs lacking one of these three sites failed to undergo the trimer assembly. Removal of an oligosaccharide chain at position 144 or 189 resulted in a decrease in the esterase activity. By contrast, two mutants lacking an oligosaccharide chain at position 26 or 603, which were defective not only in cell surface expression but in trimerization, possessed full-enzyme activity, suggesting that the HE monomers present within the cell have acetylesterase activity. Fusion activity of cells expressing each of mutant HEs was found to be comparable with the ability of the protein to be transported to the cell surface, suggesting that there is no specific oligosaccharide chain that plays a critical role in promoting membrane fusion.

Changes in intraluminal pressure in rat large intestines with aging and effects of dietary fiber

Changes in intraluminal pressure in rat colon with aging and with the effects of dietary fiber were measured. A pressure sensor was inserted into the rat large intestine under endoscopic guidance. The intraluminal pressure curve in the colon was recorded, and the motility index was calculated by this curve. The rats were divided into three groups with a fiber-free diet, a cellulose diet (10% w/w), or a pectin diet (10% w/w). Intraluminal pressure was measured in the proximal, middle, and distal colon at 2, 4, 8, 12, and 16 months after birth. Intraluminal pressure in three sites increased with age and decreased in the latter half of the study. The motility index was lower during the course in the fiber groups, especially the pectin group more than the nonfiber group. This result suggests that long-term ingestion of dietary fiber might have a prophylactic effect on the development of diverticula.

[Development of measurement of new quinolones in body fluids by HPLC using column switching and their application to drug interaction]

A high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) assay was developed for the determination of 6 new quinolones in the plasma. The plasma samples were directly introduced onto a HPLC column after filtering through a Molcut II membrane filter, which removes high molecular weight proteins. New quinolone in filtrate was separated from interfering substances and retained on a pre-column using an ODS stationary phase and then was introduced onto an analytical column with an ODS stationary phase by column switching. New quinolones were detected by ultraviolet absorbance in the range of 269-300 nm. Determinations of new quinolones were possible over the concentration range of 50-4000 ng/ml; the limits of detection were 20 ng/ml. The recoveries of the new quinolones added to the plasma were 96.1-101.4% with a coefficient of variation of less than 5.0%. These methods were applied to drug level monitoring in the plasma of patients treated with new quinolones and in that of healthy volunteers participating in pharmacokinetic studies. In addition, these methods were applied to a drug interaction between new quinolones and metal cation (e.g.; Mg2+, Al3+ or Fe2+) containing agents. Furthermore, this method was applied to the determination of skin tissue level of ofloxacin in patients after treatment with ofloxacin. A correlation between serum levels and skin tissue levels of ofloxacin was determined for 30 patients after oral administration of ofloxacin. A good correlation was obtained and the coefficient of the correlation was 0.84.

Reactive oxygen species uncouple external horizontal cells in the carp retina and glutathione couples them again

We have investigated the effect of free radicals on the electrical gap junctions between horizontal cells in the carp retina. In our previous study, L-buthionine sulfoximine, an inhibitor of glutathione synthesis, caused uncoupling of horizontal cells four days after injection. In the present study, we have used paraquat, a generator of exogenous reactive oxygen species, to investigate whether it was the depletion of glutathione or an increase in the level of reactive oxygen species which resulted in horizontal cell uncoupling after L-buthionine sulfoximine injection. Intracellular recordings were made from L-type horizontal cells at various time-points after intravitreal injection of paraquat. Injection of 25nmol paraquat caused an increase in response amplitude to central spot light stimuli by two days after injection, which continued for a further two to three days and had almost disappeared by seven days after injection. There was also a sharp increase in reactive oxygen species production, peaking at four days and disappearing by seven days after injection, and an accompanying depletion and a restoration of glutathione levels with a similar time-course. Marking cells with Lucifer Yellow clearly illustrated uncoupling of horizontal cells after paraquat injection. If paraquat and L-buthionine sulfoximine were injected simultaneously, the increase in response to central spots was observed as early as one day after injection. This response amplitude was not more enhanced than that observed after L-buthionine sulfoximine injection alone, although a dramatic increase in the level of reactive oxygen species was observed. From these results, we suggest that reactive oxygen species are involved in uncoupling, while recovery from uncoupling is dependent on glutathione. Furthermore, we conclude that a balance between glutathione and reactive oxygen species levels is the most important factor controlling gap junctional intercellular communication of L-type horizontal cells in the carp retina.

Exercise training and energy restriction decrease neutrophil phagocytic activity in judoists

PURPOSE

To investigate the effects of weight reduction as the result of exercise training and energy restriction on neutrophil function.

METHODS

Eighteen male competitive college judoists participated in the study. In a whole blood assay, oxidative burst activity, phagocytic activity, expressions of Fc gamma receptor 3 (CD16), and complement receptor 3 (CD11b) of neutrophils were measured on a per cell basis by flow cytometry at day 20, 5, and 1 before and at day 7 after the competition.

RESULTS

The rate of neutrophil producing reactive oxygen species decreased before the competition, whereas the oxidative burst activity per cell increased significantly in all subjects, which resulted in a significant increase of the total oxidative burst activity. However, there were no significant effect of energy restriction on oxidative burst activity. The rate of neutrophils incorporating opsonized zymosan decreased significantly with energy restriction. The total phagocytic activity of 10,000 neutrophils and the phagocytic activity per cell also decreased significantly by severe energy restriction. The surface antigen expressions of CD11b and CD16 were unaffected by weight reduction.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that with respect to the management of health conditions, weight reduction for judoists should be composed of exercise training and energy restriction should be moderate.

UCS15A, a non-kinase inhibitor of Src signal transduction

Src tyrosine kinase plays key roles in signal transduction following growth factor stimulation and integrin-mediated cell-substrate adhesion. Since src-signal transduction defects are implicated in a multitude of human diseases, we have sought to develop new ways to identify small molecule inhibitors using a yeast-based, activated-src over-expression system. In the present study, we describe the identification of a unique src-signal transduction inhibitor, UCS15A. UCS15A was found to inhibit the src specific tyrosine phosphorylation of numerous proteins in v-src-transformed cells. Two of these phosphoproteins were identified as bona-fide src substrates, cortactin and Sam68. UCS15A differed from conventional src-inhibitors in that it did not inhibit the tyrosine kinase activity of src. In addition, UCS15A appeared to differ from src-destabilizing agents such as herbimycin and radicicol that destabilize src by interfering with Hsp90. Our studies suggest that UCS15A exerted its src-inhibitory effects by a novel mechanism that involved disruption of protein-protein interactions mediated by src. One of the biological consequences of src-inhibition by UCS15A was its ability to inhibit the bone resorption activity of osteoclasts in vitro. These data suggest that UCS15A may inhibit the bone resorption activity of osteoclasts, not by inhibiting src tyrosine kinase activity, but by disrupting the interaction of proteins associated with src, thereby modulating downstream events in the src signal transduction pathway.

XANES analysis of sulfur form change during pyrolysis of coals

Three kinds of coal and their density separated samples were rapidly pyrolyzed in a free-fall reactor under a nitrogen stream at a terminal temperature of 1253 K. X-ray absorption near edge structure analysis was applied to directly determine the sulfur forms in the coal and pyrolysis char. The results showed that the low-density group contained sulfide and sulfoxide, which could contribute to the high extent of organic sulfur removal. Thermally stable thiophenic sulfur was observed in the higher density groups as a major form of organic sulfur.

Cerebrospinal fluid immunocytochemical analysis and neuroimaging in the diagnosis of primary leptomeningeal melanoma. Case report

A 20-year-old man presented with slowly progressing symptoms indicative of increased intracranial pressure. Two weeks later he underwent surgery for placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Cytological examination of the patient's cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) revealed atypical cells that contained no detectable melanin deposits, but proved to be immunocytochemically positive for monoclonal antibodies to melanocytic cells (HMB-45) and S-100 protein. Dermatological and ophthalmological examinations failed to demonstrate any abnormalities. On the basis of these findings, a diagnosis of primary leptomeningeal melanoma was made. Gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) images of the brain and spinal regions obtained 2 months after admission demonstrated typical widespread leptomeningeal enhancement. Results of technetium-99m-hexakis (2-methoxyisobutyl isonitrile) single-photon emission computerized tomography (99mTc-MIBI SPECT) scanning revealed intense uptake of the isotope in the leptomeningeal regions and some cisterns. The patient's condition progressively worsened and he died 5 months after admission. The diagnosis was confirmed at autopsy. Immunocytochemical analysis of CSF performed using HMB-45 and S-100 protein antibodies is important for the diagnosis of leptomeningeal melanoma because of the test's simplicity, high specificity, and sensitivity. Gadolinium-enhanced MR imaging is used to demonstrate the extent of the leptomeningeal melanoma. An additional and supplemental neuroimaging modality, 99mTc-MIBI SPECT scanning has good potential for the detection and diagnosis of leptomeningeal melanoma.

Ecabet sodium inhibits the ability of Helicobacter pylori to induce neutrophil production of reactive oxygen species and interleukin-8

The pathogenic role of human neutrophils has been implicated in Helicobacter pylori-associated gastritis. Ecabet sodium, a locally acting antiulcer drug, has anti-H. pylori actions. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of ecabet on the ability of H. pylori to stimulate human neutrophils. H. pylori were added to 1 x 10(5) neutrophils and incubated for 30 min in the presence of ecabet. Bacterial suspensions which had been incubated with ecabet for 30 min were also used to stimulate neutrophils. The intracellular production of reactive oxygen species was measured with a FACScan. Bacterial suspensions were also added to neutrophils in the presence of ecabet and incubated at 37 degrees C for 12 h to measure interleukin (IL)-8 production by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The mean fluorescence intensity was found to be attenuated dose-dependently by ecabet (P < 0.01). Ecabet also inhibited IL-8 production by neutrophils in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.001). Bacteria with prior incubation with ecabet induced significantly lower IL-8 production than those without this incubation (P < 0.05). Ecabet sodium has preventive effects on the ability of H. pylori to stimulate human neutrophils. It may lead to reduced gastritis activity and decreased oxidative damage of the gastric mucosa in H. pylori-associated gastritis.

Stereoselective pharmacokinetics of pantoprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, in extensive and poor metabolizers of S-mephenytoin

Pantoprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, is administered as a racemic mixture. To determine the role of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C19 in the stereoselective metabolism of pantoprazole, we investigated the pharmacokinetic disposition of (+)- and (-)-pantoprazole in 7 extensive metabolizers and 7 poor metabolizers of S-mephenytoin. All of the subjects received an oral 40-mg dose of racemic pantoprazole as the enteric-coated formulation. In the extensive metabolizers, the mean clearance of (-)-pantoprazole was only slightly lower than that of (+)-pantoprazole and no significant differences in the other pharmacokinetic parameters between (+)- and (-)-pantoprazole were observed. The mean (+)/(-) ratios for maximum concentration, area under the plasma concentration-time curve from 0 to infinity, and elimination half-life were 0.94, 0.82, and 0.90, respectively. In contrast, in the poor metabolizers, the clearance values of both enantiomers were significantly lower than those in the extensive metabolizers, and a significant difference in pharmacokinetics between (+)- and (-)-pantoprazole was observed. The mean elimination half-life for (+)-pantoprazole was 3.55-fold longer than that of (-)-pantoprazole, and the mean maximum concentration and area under the plasma concentration-time curve from 0 to infinity for (+)-pantoprazole were 1.31- and 3.59-fold greater, respectively, than those for (-)-pantoprazole. These results indicate that the stereoselective metabolism of pantoprazole depends on S-mephenytoin 4'-hydroxylase (CYP2C19). The metabolism of (+)-pantoprazole was impaired to a greater extent than (-)-pantoprazole in the poor metabolizers.

Voltammetric detection of lectin using sugar labeled with electroactive substance

The voltammetric detection of soybean agglutinin (SBA) was investigated on the basis of an interaction between the lectin and a sugar. Because galactose and lactose combined with SBA, the sugars were labeled by a Schiff base with an electroactive daunomycin. After the labeled sugar and SBA were mixed, measurements were carried out by voltammetry. When SBA-sugar binding occurs, a part of daunomycin of the labeled sugar is taken to the binding sites. As a result, SBA is detected by a change in the peak current of daunomycin, and the SBA-sugar interaction is evaluated. The length of the alkyl chain between daunomycin and the sugar was also considered. The electrode response to the concentration of SBA was linear over the range of 0.04-0.8 microg min(-1). The merits of this procedure are the convenient preparation of labeled sugar and a rapid measurement without separation. On the other hand, the detection of sugar at the 10(-9) mol dm(-3) level was achieved by a competitive reaction to limited binding sites of the lectin between the sugar and the labeled sugar.

Analysis of lifestyle and behavioral characteristics in Meniere's disease patients and a control population

A questionnaire was devised to quantify and measure four categories: the behavioral characteristics of Type A, self-restraint and escape; the causes of anxiety; means of relaxation; and symptoms incidental to anxiety. Questionnaire analysis was performed in patients (n = 60) with Meniere's disease and in a control population (n = 936). It was statistically proven that the patient group possessed a stress-causative tendency in behavioral characteristics, felt stronger anxiety and showed more severe symptoms owing to this anxiety. Since the level of anxiety highly correlates with the score of behavioral characteristics and also with severity of symptoms, it seems likely that behavioral characteristics produce the anxiety, which, in turn, results in various symptoms of autonomic nervous disorders. A tendency towards stress-causative behavioral characteristics in Meniere's disease patients may be important in the genesis of endolymphatic hydrops.

Effect of interferon-alpha on production of reactive oxygen species by human neutrophils

In order to examine that the effects of interferon alpha (IFN-alpha) on the production of reactive oxygen species from human neutrophils, we investigated in vitro effects of IFN-alpha on neutrophil chemiluminescence responses. Human neutrophils were incubated with 0-1 x 10(5) IU/mL IFN-alpha for 10-60 min just before stimulation with opsonized zymosan and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate. Luminol-dependent (LmCL) and lucigenin-dependent (LgCL) chemiluminescence responses were measured using a Lumi Box H-1000. The LmCL response was inhibited by pre-incubation with high concentrations of IFN-alpha (more than 1 x 10(4) IU/mL). In contrast, LgCL response was increased when neutrophils were pre-incubated with high concentration of IFN-alpha. Effects of pre-incubation of IFN-alpha were similar between CL responses stimulated with OZ and PMA. The increase of LgCL might be due to the inhibitory effect of IFN-alpha on myeloperoxidase degranulation, in view of the decreased LmCL responses.

Differences in carcinogenesis by the length of carcinogen exposure period in rat colon

To clarify the carcinogenic factors--whether it is the kind of carcinogen or their length of exposure--that determine whether colorectal cancer develops from an adenoma or develops de novo in the absence of an adenoma, we histopathologically analyzed a total of 229 rat colon tumors induced by administration of 1,2-dimethyl-hydrazine (DMH) or N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) for three or 15 weeks. In the three-week-exposure groups, 71% of DMH-induced carcinomas and 82% of MNNG-induced carcinomas coexisted with low-grade dysplasia (adenomatous remnant). However, in the 15-week-exposure groups, lowgrade dysplasia was observed in only 10% of DMH-induced and 27% of MNNG-induced carcinomas. Even in the tumors smaller than 20 mm3, it was observed in only 10% of DMH-induced and 32% of MNNG-induced carcinomas. Furthermore, carcinomas without low-grade dysplasia predominated from the initial period of tumor occurrence. Next, we investigated association of K-ras and APC gene mutations with these carcinogenesis patterns in 80 tumors. K-ras mutations were not detected in any tumors induced by three weeks of exposure. However, in the 15-week-exposure groups, this mutation was observed in 57% of DMH-induced tumors and 13% of MNNG-induced tumors. APC mutations in the region homologous to the human mutation cluster region were observed in only 6% of tumors. Thus, our results suggest that the carcinogenesis patterns in rat colon are dependent on the length of exposure to carcinogen and that K-ras mutations were partly involved in a subset of them.

The effects of grapefruit juice on the pharmacokinetics of erythromycin

OBJECTIVE

To study the effects of grapefruit juice on the pharmacokinetics of erythromycin.

METHODS

The effects of grapefruit juice intake on the pharmacokinetics of erythromycin were investigated in six healthy male volunteers, who received 400 mg erythromycin with either water or grapefruit juice. The measurement of erythromycin in plasma samples were achieved by simple Sep-Pak CN cartridge extraction coupled with the electrochemical determination HPLC method, which was developed for the determination of erythromycin in human plasma in the present study.

RESULTS

Grapefruit juice, compared with water intake, significantly (P<0.05) increased the mean Cmax value (1.65+/-0.94 versus 2.51+/-0.68 microg/ml) and the mean AUC0-12 value of erythromycin (5.92+/-3.25 versus 8.80+/-1.32microg.h/ml). However, the Tmax and t1/2 values of erythromycin were not affected by grapefruit juice intake.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that the bioavailability of erythromycin was increased by the inhibitory effect of grapefruit juice on cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4-mediated metabolism in the small intestine.

Effects of grapefruit juice on the stereoselective disposition of nicardipine in humans: evidence for dominant presystemic elimination at the gut site

OBJECTIVES

To assess relative roles of the intestinal and hepatic stereoselective metabolism of nicardipine in an oral first-pass disposal with and without grapefruit juice intake.

METHODS

The kinetic profiles of (+)- and (-)-nicardipine were studied in the six normal healthy male volunteers who received oral (40 mg) and intravenous (2 mg) racemic nicardipine, first with water and second with grapefruit juice. Both the enantiomers were determined by the stereoselective high-performance liquid chromatographic method, and hemodynamic parameters (arterial blood pressure, heart rate, and electrocardiogram) were assessed when each blood sample was taken.

RESULTS

Grapefruit juice compared with water intake caused a significant (P < 0.05) increase in the mean oral (+)- and (-)-nicardipine bioavailability (Fobs) (48.6+/-5.0% and 105.6+/-7.8%) and dose-absorbed (Fabs) available fraction unmetabolized at the gut (Fg) (48.2+/-5.6% and 110.9+/-8.8%, respectively) with no significant change in the hepatic first-pass effect. However, all of the mean kinetic parameters of both the enantiomers after the intravenous dosing of racemic nicardipine did not differ between the grapefruit juice- and water-intake trial phases. The mean percentage changes in oral AUC (43.1+/-3.4% in [+]-nicardipine and 90.9 6.4% in [-]-nicardipine, or Fobs) and Fabs Fg by grapefruit juice tended to be greater for (-)-nicardipine than for (+)-nicardipine and the mean oral (+)/(-)-nicardipine AUC ratio was significantly reduced by grapefruit juice (from 2.25+/-0.37 to 1.75+/-0.28) (P < 0.05). Except for heart rates, which were greater with grapefruit juice (P < 0.05) at 1 and 2 h after the oral dose of nicardipine, the mean hemodynamic variables did not differ between the two trial phases.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that the gut is the major presystemic disposal site of racemic nicardipine in humans. Grapefruit juice appears to affect this metabolic disposal of (-)-nicardipine to a somewhat greater extent compared with that of (+)-nicardipine, with an early postdose transient tachycardia after the oral dosing of racemic nicardipine.

Effects of zinc on the reactive oxygen species generating capacity of human neutrophils and on the serum opsonic activity in vitro

To investigate the effects of zinc on non-specific immune functions, we used the chemiluminescence method to examine the capacity of human neutrophils to produce reactive oxygen species and accompanying serum opsonic activity. When neutrophils were stimulated with both opsonized zymosan and phorbol myristate acetate in the presence of 1-10(-3) mmol/L zinc lucigenin-dependent CL responses were stable or declined, whereas luminol-dependent CL responses were significantly enhanced. The results suggest that zinc activates protein kinase C and promotes MPO degranulation and ROS metabolism, especially in hypochlorous acid production, which have the direct action of causing microbial death. Further, the lucigen-dependent CL response stimulated with OZ was strongly enhanced by anti-MPO antibodies, whereas the enhancement was less in the presence of zinc, suggesting that zinc may suppress the receptor-mediated signal transduction process. Both responses were inhibited at 10 mmol/L. Serum opsonic activity was enhanced by zinc at 10(-4) and 10(-3) mmol/L but reduced at 10 mmol/L. These data indicate that addition of zinc around and above normal physiological concentrations facilitates neutrophil functional activity and serum opsonic activity, whereas these are inhibited by a lack of zinc or an excessive amount, suggesting that zinc is essential for optimal functioning of non-specific immunity.

Effects of Helicobacter pylori in the stomach on neutrophil chemiluminescence in patients with gastric cancer

Hypochlorous acid, which is one of the reactive oxgen species (ROS) produced from human neutrophils, is converted to cytotoxic NH(2)Cl after reaction with ammonia produced by urease in Helicobacter pylori (HP), increasing gastric mucosal injury and with potential development to gastric cancer. We compared the effects of HP on the production of ROS by human neutrophils between two groups-22 patients with gastric cancer and 16 patients without gastric cancer (control group), in whom HP was isolated from stomach biopsy tissues-using a luminol- and lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence (LmCL and LgCL, respectively). It was very similar in the mean value or variance of mean maximal chemiluminescence intensities (MCI) and peak time in LmCL and LgCL between the two groups. MCI of LmCL was highly correlated with that of LgCL in both groups. These results indicate that there were no differences in the behaviour of HP on human neutrophil chemiluminescence between two groups. The progression from non-malignant mucosa to cancer may be associated with the time-dependent effects of HP via ROS produced by neutrophils on the gastric mucosa.

A highly sensitive immuno-polymerase chain reaction assay for human angiotensinogen using the identical first and second polyclonal antibodies

We describe an immuno-polymerase chain reaction (immuno-PCR) assay for the detection of human angiotensinogen using identical first and second polyclonal antibodies. The reporter DNA was initially generated by PCR amplification using a biotinylated primer, and was bound with streptavidin to biotinylated second antibody. Human recombinant angiotensinogen sandwiched by antibodies was detected by amplifying the reporter DNA using PCR. To reduce the effect of nonspecific amplification, the optimal concentrations of streptavidin and DNA label were determined to be 0.1 mg/l and 0.5 ng/l, respectively. The detection limit of the immuno-PCR assay was 0.1 ng/l, an approximately 2.5x10(5)-fold improvement compared with a conventional enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. These results indicate that a highly sensitive immuno-PCR for human angiotensinogen can be developed even with identical first and second polyclonal antibodies.

Therapeutic spectrum of nemonapride and its relationship with plasma concentrations of the drug and prolactin

The therapeutic spectrum of nemonapride, a new substituted benzamide, and its relationship with plasma concentrations of the drug and prolactin were investigated by a fixed-dose study (18 mg/day for 3 weeks) in 31 patients with acutely exacerbated schizophrenia. Of 31 patients, 25 (80.6%) were responders who showed a reduction in symptoms (percentage of improvement) of 50% or more after 3 weeks. The mean values of percentage of improvement in scores on the total Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) and the five subscale symptoms were 71.5% for total, 73.2% for Positive, 86.0% for Excitement, 53.9% for Negative, 84.2% for Cognitive, and 67.5% for Anxiety-Depression. Responders had higher percentage of improvement in positive (84.6 +/- 17.0% vs. 25.9 +/- 15.7%; p < 0.001) and anxiety-depression (76.9 +/- 18.8% vs. 28.5 +/- 39.9%; p < 0.005) symptoms than did nonresponders after 3 weeks. The percentage of improvement in total BPRS after 2 weeks was well correlated with that after 3 weeks (Spearman rank correlation coefficient: r(s) = 0.711; p < 0.01). There was an inverted U-shaped relationship between plasma drug concentrations (nemonapride plus desmethylnemonapride) and percentage of improvement in total BPRS symptoms after a 3-week treatment (y = 46.9 + 73.9x - 44.2x2; p < 0.001). These findings suggest that nemonapride has a broad therapeutic spectrum in the treatment of acute schizophrenia. The improvements in scores for the Positive and Anxiety-Depression subscale symptoms are regarded as determinant factors for total response to nemonapride. An assessment of clinical status after 2 weeks and plasma drug monitoring may be useful for the prediction of the final outcome for patients.

Slow recovery of goldfish retinal ganglion cells' soma size during regeneration

The goldfish optic nerve regenerates after sectioning. Recently both short-term (30 days) and long-term (4 months) recovery of various goldfish behaviors were observed after optic nerve section. Using intracellular injection of Lucifer Yellow (LY) the morphology of regenerating ganglion cells in goldfish retina after optic nerve section over a 4 month period have been investigated. In normal retinas, most cells (96-98%) were 7-10 microm in soma diameter which increased with increasing distance from the optic disc. Only two or three short, thin processes could be traced with LY. The remaining cells (2-4%) were 13-16 microm in soma diameter and all of the long dendritic trees could be traced with LY. The most conspicuous morphological change observed was cellular hypertrophy, which occurred for 20-90 days after axotomy. Neuronal processes were also hypertrophic in this period. The percentage increase in hypertrophy of the central ganglion cells tended to be slightly higher compared to cells from other regions. These morphological changes peaked at 60 days after axotomy and fully disappeared by 120 days after axotomy. The slow recovery of ganglion cells' soma size may reflect the slow return to the normal number of optic axon terminals in the tectum during regeneration.

Asymmetric redox reactions in human liver stereoselective oxidation of optically active dihydrohaloperidols, dihydrobromoperidols and stereospecific reduction of haloperidol and bromoperidol

The stereoselective oxidation of dihydrohaloperidols (3a, b) and dihydrobromoperidols (4a, b), which are the main metabolites of haloperidol (1) and bromoperidol (2) in humans, respectively, were pharmacokinetically investigated using human liver microsomes and human cytochrome P450(CYP) isoenzymes expressed in the human cell line. The oxidation rates of the (R)-isomers (3a and 4a) in the human liver microsomes were faster than those of the (S)-isomers (3b and 4b), and the R/S enantiomeric ratios of 3 and 4 for intrinsic clearance (Vmax/Km) were 1.40 and 3.10, respectively, showing that stereoselective oxidation occurred in human liver. Concerning the involvement of the CYP isoenzymes in this oxidative pathway, the (R)-isomers (3a and 4a) were catalyzed by both CYP3A4 and CYP2D6, however, the (S)-isomers (3b and 4b) were catalyzed only by CYP3A4.

Characterization of antigenically unique influenza C virus strains isolated in Yamagata and Sendai cities, Japan, during 1992-1993

Three influenza C virus strains (C/Yamagata/1/92, C/Yamagata/1/93 and C/Miyagi/5/93) isolated in Yamagata and Sendai Cities, Japan, between June 1992 and May 1993 were found to possess haemagglutinin-esterase glycoproteins that were antigenically indistinguishable from one another but were clearly different from any previous Japanese isolates. To investigate the origin of the 1992/1993 strains, their antigenic and genetic properties were compared with those of eight strains isolated outside Japan between 1967 and 1982. The results showed that the 1992/1993 isolates were closely related to a virus isolated in Brazil in 1982 (C/SaoPaulo/378/82) and that these viruses (including C/SaoPaulo/378/82) are reassortants that had obtained PB1 and NP genes from a C/Yamagata/26/81-like parent and the other genes from another as yet unidentified parent.

Effects of repeated ingestion of grapefruit juice on the single and multiple oral-dose pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of alprazolam

The effects of repeated ingestion of grapefruit juice, an inhibitor of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of both single and multiple oral doses of alprazolam, a substrate of CYP3A4, were examined. In study 1, eight healthy volunteers ingesting 600 ml/day water or grapefruit juice for 10 days took a single oral 0.8-mg dose of alprazolam on the eighth day. Plasma drug concentrations were monitored up to 48 h after alprazolam dosing together with evaluation of psychomotor function. Grapefruit juice altered neither the plasma concentrations of alprazolam at any time points, any pharmacokinetic parameters, nor the majority of psychomotor function parameters in subjects. In study 2, 11 patients with anxiety disorders receiving alprazolam (0.8-2.4 mg/day) ingested grapefruit juice (600 ml/day) for 7 days. Blood samples were collected before and during grapefruit juice ingestion and 1 week after its discontinuation together with an assessment of clinical status. Grapefruit juice altered neither the steady-state plasma concentration of alprazolam nor the clinical status in patients. The present study shows that grapefruit juice is unlikely to affect pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics of alprazolam due to its high bioavailability.

Effect of decaglycerol monooleate on phagocytosis and respiratory burst activity of human neutrophils: an in vitro study

Decaglycerol monooleate (DGMO), a type of polyglycerol esters of fatty acids (PGEF), was evaluated for its in vitro effect on phagocytosis and respiratory burst activity of isolated human neutrophils using flow cytometric assay. Opsonized zymosan particles labelled with FITC (FITC-OZ) were employed as an indicator of phagocytosis. Fluorescence of FITC-OZ attached on to the surface of neutrophils was quenched by addition of trypan blue solution. After 10 minutes of incubation with DGMO up to a concentration of 10 mg/ml, neutrophil phagocytosis was not affected markedly. At the same time, the DGMO emulsion left little influence on complement receptor type three (CR3) that is associated with phagocytosis. On the other hand, oxidation of hydroethidine, which was used as an indicator of intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species (mainly for superoxide anion), was significantly inhibited by DGMO over 1 mg/ml. However, this phenomenon was not seen in DGMO-treated neutrophils when DGMO was removed after incubation. The present data suggest that DGMO does not affect phagocytosis of human neutrophils but down-regulates respiratory burst activity.

Monitoring of carbamazepine and carbamazepine 10,11-epoxide in breast milk and plasma by high-performance liquid chromatography

A high-performance liquid chromatographic method was developed for the measurement of carbamazepine (CBZ) and carbamazepine 10,11-epoxide (CBZE) in human breast milk and plasma. The method involves rapid C18 solid-phase extraction of CBZ and CBZE. Chromatographic separation was achieved with a reversed-phase C8 column using a mobile phase of potassium dihydrogenphosphate (pH 2.5) and acetonitrile (67:33 v/v), with ultraviolet detection at 254 nm. 2-Methyl CBZ was used as the internal standard. Determination of both CBZ and CBZE was possible in the range of 0.01-6.0 mg/L and 0.02-6.0 mg/L in milk and plasma, respectively. The recoveries of CBZ and CBZE added to the milk and plasma were 90.6-98.0% and 88.9-104.0%, respectively, with coefficients of variation less than 8.3% and 10.5%, respectively. The method has been used for drug level monitoring in milk and plasma samples obtained from CBZ-treated patients. The mean (SD) levels for CBZ in milk and plasma samples were 3.50 (0.4) mg/L and 6.18 (2.9) mg/L, and for CBZE were 1.28 (0.3) mg/L and 1.85 (1.0) mg/L, respectively. The mean (SD) milk/plasma ratios of CBZ and CBZE were 0.64 (0.2) and 0.79 (0.3), respectively. The milk/plasma ratio of CBZE was slightly higher than that of CBZ.