Variability of activity concentrations and radial distributions of 137Cs and 90Sr in trunk wood of Scots pine and Silver birch

This study analyzes the variability of ¹³⁷Cs and ⁹⁰Sr concentrations in wood and their radial distributions in the trunks of Scots pine and Silver birch trees in the small uniformly contaminated forest stands in the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone. Concentrations of both radionuclides follow a lognormal distribution with a large scatter of values measured in the trees within the stands (GSD ranges from 1.6 to 2.0). No correlation was found between the concentrations of the two radionuclides measured in individual trees, or between their concentrations and tree diameter. The average ¹³⁷Cs and ⁹⁰Sr T_ag were 8.4 × 10^-4 m² kg^-1 and 8.8 × 10^-3 m² kg^-1 for pine, respectively, and 9.3 × 10^-4 m² kg^-1 and 1.1 × 10^-2 m² kg^-1 for birch, indicating a much higher availability of ⁹⁰Sr for uptake by the studied species. For ¹³⁷Cs, the T_ag values are within the range recommended by the IAEA Handbook (IAEA, 2010), while the values for ⁹⁰Sr exceed the recommended range for birch and are close to its upper value for pine. The highest concentrations of ¹³⁷Cs in pine at the height of 1.3 m were measured in the youngest sapwood rings; they were lower in the rest of the sapwood and decreased further in the heartwood, but remained relatively high even in annual rings that were the heartwood at the time of deposition, suggesting sapwood-to-heartwood translocation of the radionuclide by diffusion and/or ray transport. In contrast, ⁹⁰Sr concentrations increased through the sapwood from the trunk periphery in pine trees up to 80 years old and remained stable through the sapwood in older trees (except for higher concentrations in the young annual rings), but dropped to zero in physiologically inactive heartwood tissues. In most birch trees, regardless of age, ¹³⁷Cs concentrations demonstrated an increasing trend from the trunk periphery towards the pith, while concentrations of ⁹⁰Sr were relatively stable in the whole trunk except in the oldest annual rings, where they increased sharply, likely indicating active transport of the radionuclide to senescing tissues.

Natural attenuation of Fukushima-derived radiocesium in soils due to its vertical and lateral migration

Processes of vertical and lateral migration lead to gradual reduction in contamination of catchment soil, particularly its top layer. The reduction can be considered as natural attenuation. This, in turn, results in a gradual decrease of radiocesium activity concentrations in the surface runoff and river water, in both dissolved and particulate forms. The purpose of this research is to study the dynamics of Fukushima-derived radiocesium in undisturbed soils and floodplain deposits exposed to erosion and sedimentation during floods. Combined observations of radiocesium vertical distribution in soil and sediment deposition on artificial lawn-grass mats on the Niida River floodplain allowed us to estimate both annual mean sediment accumulation rates and maximum sedimentation rates corresponding to an extreme flood event during Tropical Storm Etau, 6-11 September 2015. Dose rates were reduced considerably for floodplain sections with high sedimentation because the top soil layer with high radionuclide contamination was eroded and/or buried under cleaner fresh sediments produced mostly due to bank erosion and sediments movements. Rate constants of natural attenuation on the sites of the Takase River and floodplain of Niida River was found to be in range 0.2-0.4 year^-1. For the site in the lower reach of the Niida River, collimated shield dose readings from soil surfaces slightly increased during the period of observation from February to July 2016. Generally, due to more precipitation, steeper slopes, higher temperatures and increased biological activities in soils, self-purification of radioactive contamination in Fukushima associated with vertical and lateral radionuclide migration is faster than in Chernobyl. In many cases, monitored natural attenuation along with appropriate restrictions seems to be optimal option for water remediation in Fukushima contaminated areas.

The IUR Forum: Worldwide Harmonisation of Networks to Support Integration of Scientific Knowledge and Consensus Development in Radioecology

During the past decades, many specialised networks have formed to meet specific radioecological objectives, whether regional or sectorial (purpose-oriented). Regional networks deal with an array of radioecological issues related to their territories. Examples include the South Pacific network of radioecologists, and the European network of excellence in radioecology. The latter is now part of the European platform for radiation protection. Sectorial networks are more problem-oriented, often with wider international representativeness, but restricted to one specific issue, (e.g. radioactive waste, low-level atmospheric contamination, modelling). All such networks, while often working in relative isolation, contribute to a flow of scientific information which, through United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR's) efforts of synthesis, feeds into the radiation protection frameworks of protecting humans and the environment. The IUR has therefore prompted a co-construction process aimed at improving worldwide harmonisation of radioecology networks. An initiative based on an initial set of 15 networks, now called the IUR FORUM, was launched in June 2014. The IUR Forum agreed to build a framework for improved coordination of scientific knowledge, integration and consensus development relative to environmental radioactivity. Three objectives have been collectively assigned to the IUR FORUM: (1) coordination, (2) global integration and construction of consensus and (3) maintenance of expertise. One particular achievement of the FORUM was an improved description and common understanding of the respective roles and functions of the various networks within the overall scene of radioecology R&D. It clarifies how the various networks assembled within the IUR FORUM interface with UNSCEAR and other international regulatory bodies (IAEA, ICRP), and how consensus on the assessment of risk is constructed. All these agencies interact with regional networks covering different geographical areas, and with other networks which address specific topics within radiation protection. After holding its first Consensus Symposium in 2015, examining the possible ecological impact of radiation from environmental contamination, the IUR FORUM continues its work towards improved radiation protection of humans and the environment. We welcome new members.

Monitoring and Detecting the Cigarette Beetle (Coleoptera: Anobiidae) Using Ultraviolet (LED) Direct and Reflected Lights and/or Pheromone Traps in a Laboratory and a Storehouse

The cigarette beetle, Lasioderma serricorne (F.), is an important stored-product pest worldwide because it damages dry foods. Detection and removal of the female L. serricorne will help to facilitate the control of the insect by removal of the egg-laying populations. In this manuscript, we examined the responses by L. serricorne to direct and reflected light in transparent cube (50 m3) set in a chamber (200 m3) and a stored facility with both direct and reflected UV-LED lights. The study also examined the responses by the beetles to light in the presence or absence of pheromone in traps that are placed at different heights. Reflected light attracted more beetles than the direct light in the experimental chamber, but the direct light traps attracted more beetles than the reflected light traps in the storehouse. Pheromone traps attracted only males; UV-LED traps attracted both sexes. The UV-LED traps with a pheromone, i.e., combined trap, attracted more males than UV-LED light traps without a pheromone, whereas the attraction of UV-LED traps with and without the pheromone was similar in females. The results suggest that UV-LED light trap combined with a sex pheromone is the best solution for monitoring and controlling L. serricorne.

Behavior of accidentally released radiocesium in soil-water environment: Looking at Fukushima from a Chernobyl perspective

Quantitative characteristics of dissolved and particulate radiocesium wash-off from contaminated watersheds after the FDNPP accident are calculated based on published monitoring data. Comparative analysis is provided for radiocesium wash-off parameters and distribution coefficients, Kd, between suspended matter and water in rivers and surface runoff on Fukushima and Chernobyl contaminated areas for the first years after the accidents. It was found that radiocesium distribution coefficient in Fukushima rivers is essentially higher (1-2 orders of magnitude) than corresponding values for rivers and surface runoff within the Chernobyl zone. This can be associated with two factors: first, the high fraction of clays in the predominant soils and sediments of the Fukushima area and accordingly a higher value of the radiocesium Interception Potential, RIP, in general, and secondly the presence of water insoluble glassy particles containing radiocesium in the accidental fallout at Fukushima. It was found also that normalized dissolved wash-off coefficients for Fukushima catchments are 1-2 orders of magnitude lower than corresponding values for the Chernobyl zone. Normalized particulate wash-off coefficients are comparable for Fukushima and Chernobyl. Results of the investigation of radiocesium's ((134)Cs and (137)Cs) vertical distribution in soils of the close-in area of the Fukushima Dai-ichi NPP - Okuma town and floodplain of the Niida river are presented. The radiocesium migration in undisturbed forest and grassland soils at Fukushima contaminated area has been shown to be faster as compared to the Chernobyl 30-km zone during the first three years after the accidents. This may be associated with higher annual precipitation (by about 2.5 times) in Fukushima as compared to the Chernobyl zone, as well as the differences in the soil characteristics and temperature regime throughout a year. Investigation and analysis of Fukushima's radiocesium distribution in soils of Niida river catchment revealed accumulation zones of contaminated sediments on its floodplain. Average sediment deposition rates varied from 0.3 to 3.3 cm/year.

The effect of nasal speaking valve on the speech under experimental velopharyngeal incompetence condition

Velopharyngeal incompetence (VPI) is a contributing factor to speech disorders, frequently accompanying disorders, such as cleft palate, congenital paralysis of the soft palate, and cerebrovascular disease. For the treatment of these types of dysarthria, a Nasal Speaking Valve (NSV), which regulates nasal emission utilizing one-way valve, has been reported to be effective. As the unpleasantness while wearing the NSV was less than that with the conventional Palatal Lift Prosthesis, the NSV could be worn for a longer period of time. As NSV is inserted into the nostrils, this device could easily be provided for edentulous patients. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of NSV on experimentally induced VPI condition. Intelligibility of monosyllabic speech, intelligibility of conversational speech, nasalance score and acoustic analysis were used to evaluate the effect of NSV. Local infiltration anaesthesia was achieved to the area of levator veli palatini muscle and tensor veli palatine muscle of seven adult male subjects. In all subjects, remarkable suppression of the soft palate movement could be observed after the local infiltration anesthesia. Although the utterance supported by NSV under the experimentally induced VPI condition was less natural than the normal utterance, the intelligibility was markedly improved by the device. From the results of this study, the acoustic properties of NSV on the pure VPI condition, which was enabled by the newly established experimental induction, were revealed. This experimental model was also proved to provide a basis for the improvement in the treatment modalities for VPI.

Nasal speaking valve: a device for managing velopharyngeal incompetence

Velopharyngeal incompetence is a contributing factor for speech disorders, and other frequently accompanying disorders, such as cleft palate, congenital paralysis of the soft palate and cerebrovascular disease. A palatal lift prosthesis (PLP) has been fabricated for managing velopharyngeal incompetence to improve speech. Because of discomfort, such as difficulty in swallowing or vomiting reflex, while wearing the PLP, rigorous adjustment is required. Patients may have difficulty becoming accustomed to using the prosthesis. This article reports on a newly developed device, the nasal speaking valve, for improving hypernasal speech caused by velopharyngeal incompetence.

Last resort for renal transplant recipients, 'restored kidneys' from living donors/patients

Because of the grave shortage of deceased kidney allografts in Japan, we have embarked on a new source of organs, 'Restored kidneys' from living patients. From January 1991 through September 2006, 42 kidneys (eight benign pathology, eight small renal cancers, eight ureteral cancers, six aneurysms, eight severe nephrotic syndrome from four patients and four ureteral stenosis) were obtained from 38 patients/donors after extensive discussion of treatment modalities and risks. All patients/donors agreed to undergo total nephrectomy. The lesions were removed/repaired ex vivo on the back table, then transplanted. All recipients were notified of all possible risks including donor disease recurrence. One, 5 and 10-year patient survival rates of restored transplant patients were 92.9%, 79.3% and 63.8%, respectively. One, 5 and 10-year graft survival rates of restored kidney transplant patients were 78.6%, 51.8% and 42.7%, respectively. There were no recurrences of small renal cell carcinomas. There was one recurrence of ureteral cancer in the transplanted kidney 15 months after operation. In countries where deceased donors are scarce, such as Japan, the restored kidneys can be a last resort for renal allografts.

Analysis of facultative lithotroph distribution and diversity on volcanic deposits by use of the large subunit of ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase

A 492- to 495-bp fragment of the gene coding for the large subunit of the form I ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RubisCO) (rbcL) was amplified by PCR from facultatively lithotrophic aerobic CO-oxidizing bacteria, colorless and purple sulfide-oxidizing microbial mats, and genomic DNA extracts from tephra and ash deposits from Kilauea volcano, for which atmospheric CO and hydrogen have been previously documented as important substrates. PCR products from the mats and volcanic sites were used to construct rbcL clone libraries. Phylogenetic analyses showed that the rbcL sequences from all isolates clustered with form IC rbcL sequences derived from facultative lithotrophs. In contrast, the microbial mat clone sequences clustered with sequences from obligate lithotrophs representative of form IA rbcL. Clone sequences from volcanic sites fell within the form IC clade, suggesting that these sites were dominated by facultative lithotrophs, an observation consistent with biogeochemical patterns at the sites. Based on phylogenetic and statistical analyses, clone libraries differed significantly among volcanic sites, indicating that they support distinct lithotrophic assemblages. Although some of the clone sequences were similar to known rbcL sequences, most were novel. Based on nucleotide diversity and average pairwise difference, a forested site and an 1894 lava flow were found to support the most diverse and least diverse lithotrophic populations, respectively. These indices of diversity were not correlated with rates of atmospheric CO and hydrogen uptake but were correlated with estimates of respiration and microbial biomass.

Relationships of serum levels of insulinlike growth factors with indices of bone metabolism and nutritional conditions in hemodialysis patients

Insulinlike growth factor (IGF) I and IGF-II are synthesized in osteoblasts and stimulate proliferation, differentiation, and matrix synthesis in these cells. There is some evidence that IGFs act on bone cells not only by paracrine but also by endocrine pathways, suggesting that circulating IGFs may be of importance for the regulation of bone metabolism. On the other hand, the serum IGF-I level is also thought to be a good indicator of the nutritional conditions in hemodialysis patients. The present study was performed to analyze the correlations of circulating levels of IGF-I, IGF-II, IGF-binding protein (IGFBP) 1 and IGFBP-3 with biochemical markers of bone metabolism and parameters of the urea kinetic model which reflect nutritional conditions in hemodialysis patients. We also examined the differences between these relationships in male and female patients on hemodialysis. Sixty-two hemodialysis patients, 36 men (male group) and 26 women (female group), were included in this study. We measured the serum levels of IGF-I, IGF-II, IGFBP-1, and IGFBP-3. The bone mineral content (BMC) of the radius was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. We calculated Kt/V, protein catabolic rate, and percent creatinine generation rate (%CGR). We also examined the relationships between serum levels of IGFs and BMC and the parameters of the urea kinetic model. It was found that the serum levels of IGF-I in the hemodialysis patients were almost the same as those in the control group. However, the serum levels of IGF-II, IGFBP-1, and IGFBP-3 in the hemodialysis patients were significantly higher than those in the control group. In the male group, the serum IGF-I levels showed a significant correlation with both serum intact parathyroid hormone levels and BMC, but no significant correlations between these indices were found in the female group. The serum levels of both IGF-I and IGF-II showed significant correlations with %CGR in the male group, but not in the female group. Stepwise multiple regression analysis was performed to clarify the relationship between serum levels of IGFs and BMC or %CGR. It was found that age, hemodialysis duration, serum intact parathyroid hormone levels, and sex were independent factors associated with BMC. The %CGR was associated independently with serum levels of IGF-I, and IGF-II and with the presence of diabetes mellitus. In conclusion, it is thought that serum levels of IGF-I and IGF-II can be used as indices of nutritional conditions in hemodialysis patients. However, the serum IGF-I level cannot be used as a marker of bone metabolism in hemodialysis patients.

[A case of post-tuberculosis chronic empyema with effective low-dose, long-term clarithromycin administration]

A 78-year-old woman with post-tuberculosis chronic empyema who underwent unsuccessful decortication in July 1993, was admitted to our hospital in November 1994 because of M. tuberculosis in her sputum. One month after anti-tuberculosis treatment, the M. tuberculosis disappeared from the sputum, but a pleurocutaneous fistula that exuded abundant bloody pus containing Pseudomonas aeruginosa persisted in the area of chronic empyema. In July 1997, 200 mg of clarithromycin (CAM) was administered daily; 21 months later, the pus and pleurocutaneous fistula had disappeared. Post-tuberculosis chronic empyema with a fistula is generally an intractable condition that necessitates surgery. In this case, the empyema did not improve during the 4 years after the surgery. However, low-dose, long-term CAM administration brought about a disappearance of pus from the fistula and closure of the empyema spaces.

Aggregated occurrence of sleep apnea syndrome in a family

We experienced a family in whom sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) was recognized in six members and habitual snoring in seven members among 26 subjects of four generations. In all members with snoring, the disorder was noticed before the age of 20. Hypercapnic response study showed normal findings, and ultrafast magnetic resonance image of the upper airway revealed that the obstruction of the upper airway occurred at the velopharyngeal portion during apneic episodes in all SAS-afflicted subjects. In this family, the similar craniofacial structural abnormalities were thought to cause the aggregated occurrences of the disorders at young ages, and obesity was regarded as a contributor for the aggravated symptoms.

Long-term follow-up study on patients with sleep apnea syndrome

We did a 5-year follow-up study on sleep apnea syndrome (SAS)-related symptoms and respiratory disorder variables on 109 patients. At follow up, SAS-related symptoms were improved in a significantly higher percentage of the treatment success group than the treatment failure group. A significant deterioration of the respiratory disorder variables was recognized only in the patients 40-60 years of age. These results indicate that treatment effect for SAS might be maintained in the long term and that the natural evolution of the disorder might be prominent in middle-aged patients.

P300 abnormalities in patients with severe sleep apnea syndrome

We investigated the mechanism of abnormal P300 findings in the patients with severe sleep apnea syndrome (SAS). Compared with controls, SAS patients showed significantly longer latency of P300. Not the mean sleep latency in multiple sleep latency test but the percentage of total periods in which percentage desaturation time fell below 90% to total sleep time correlated with P300 latency in the patients. During nasal CPAP treatment, P300 latency was significantly shortened in the patients under 45 years, while the elderly patients did not show statistical change. We speculated that P300 latencies might be prolonged due to nocturnal hypoxia with SAS and the abnormality might be irreversible, especially in elderly patients.

Recovery of Infectious Human Parainfluenza Type 2 Virus from cDNA Clones and Properties of the Defective Virus without V-Specific Cysteine-Rich Domain

A full-length cDNA clone was constructed from the genome of the human parainfluenza type 2 virus (hPIV2). First, Vero cells were infected with recombinant vaccinia virus expressing T7 RNA polymerase, and then the plasmid encoding the antigenome sequence was transfected into Vero cells together with polymerase unit plasmids, NP, P, and L, which were under control of the T7 polymerase promoter. Subsequently, the transfected cells were cocultured with fresh Vero cells. Rescue of recombinant hPIV2 (rPIV2) from cDNA clone was demonstrated by finding the introduced genetic tag. As an application of reverse genetics, we introduced one nucleotide change (UCU to ACU) to immediate downstream of the RNA-editing site of the V gene in the full-length hPIV2 cDNA and were able to obtain infectious viruses [rPIV2V(-)] from the cDNA. The rPIV2V(-) possessed a defective V protein that did not have the unique cysteine-rich domain in its carboxyl terminus (the V-protein-specific domain). The rPIV2V(-) showed no growth in CV-1 and FL cells. Replication of the rPIV2V(-) in these cells, however, was partially recovered by adding anti-interferon (IFN)-beta antibody into the culture medium, showing that the rPIV2V(-) is highly sensitive against IFN and that no growth of rPIV2V(-) in CV-1 and FL cells is mainly due to its hypersensitivity to endogenously produced IFN. These findings indicate that the V-protein-specific domain of hPIV2 is related to IFN resistance. On the other hand, the rPIV2V(-) efficiently replicated in Vero cells, which are known as a IFN-non-producers. However, the virus yields of rPIV2V(-) in Vero cells were 10- to100-fold lower than those of control rPIV2, although syntheses of the viral-specific proteins and their mRNAs in rPIV2V(-)-infected Vero cells were augmented up to 48 p.i. in comparison with those of rPIV2. Furthermore, the rPIV2V(-) virions showed anomalous in size as compared with rPIV2 virions. These results suggest that the V protein plays an important role in the hPIV2 assembly, maturation, and morphogenesis.

Palatal radicular multigrooves associated with severe periodontal defects in maxillary central incisors

BACKGROUND

This case report describes a rare condition of palatal radicular multigrooves on teeth 11 and 21 with severe periodontal defects and the findings at 3-year follow-up.

METHOD

Radiculoplasty using hand curettes and rotary burs were used to remove the multigrooves on the root surfaces and change the wrinkled root form to the relatively flat and smooth normal root morphology. Minor tooth movement and frenotomy were performed for a diastema between teeth 11 and 21. Supportive periodontal therapy started immediately after completion of the active treatment.

RESULTS

Improved healthy periodontal tissues and adequate plaque control have been maintained.

Effects of guided bone regeneration with non-resorbable and bioabsorbable barrier membranes on osseointegration around hydroxyapatite-coated and uncoated threaded titanium dental implants placed into a surgically-created dehiscence type defect in rabbit tibia: a pilot study

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of guided bone regeneration (GBR) with either a non-resorbable (ePTFE) or bioabsorbable barrier membrane (RSLT) on osseointegration and extent of bone formation around hydroxyapatite-coated (HA) and uncoated threaded titanium (Ti) dental implants placed into surgically-created dehiscence type defects in rabbit tibia. A dehiscence type bone defect, approximately 3 mm in width and height was surgically created on the outer surface of the bone in each tibia of 9 rabbits. For the conventional group, either a HA or a Ti implant was then placed at this site. After the same procedure was performed as in the conventional group, the implant site of the GBR group was covered with either an ePTFE or a RSLT. After 4 months, the rabbits were sacrificed. Specimens were prepared and examined histometrically. It was found that the mean percentage of osseointegration tended to increase in HA compared to Ti implants, both with and without membranes. There was a tendency that the extent of newly regenerated bone was higher in the GBR group than that in the conventional group.

Cross-talk between RANKL and FRP-1/CD98 Systems: RANKL-mediated osteoclastogenesis is suppressed by an inhibitory anti-CD98 heavy chain mAb and CD98-mediated osteoclastogenesis is suppressed by osteoclastogenesis inhibitory factor

The two pathways to osteoclastogenesis, RANKL-mediated and CD98-mediated osteoclastogenesis, have recently been reported. RANKL, OCIF, and TIMP-3 mRNAs are not found in monocytes freshly isolated or incubated with anti-FRP-1/CD98hc antibody. RANK, TACE, and M-CSF mRNAs can be detected in these cells. Interestingly, the expressed amount of RANK mRNA increases by cultivation of monocytes with anti-CD98hc antibody and maximal expression is observed in osteoclast-like cells. CD98-mediated cell aggregation and multinucleated giant cell formation are blocked by OCIF. OCIF also suppressed the CD98-mediated induction of Sp1 and c-src mRNAs in monocytes. Soluble RANK shows no effect on CD98-mediated cell aggregation and multinucleated giant cell formation. When blood monocytes were incubated with RANKL and M-CSF, c-src and Sp1 mRNAs were first found in blood monocytes incubated with these cytokines for 7 days. On the contrary, c-src mRNA could be detected 3 h after treatment of blood monocytes with anti-CD98hc mAb. LAT-1 mRNA was not found, and the expression levels of Y(+)LAT-1 and Y(+)LAT-2 mRNAs were not changed in monocytes stimulated without or with anti-CD98hc mAb or RANKL and M-CSF. An inhibitory mAb directed against CD98hc, HBJ 127, shows a suppressive effect on RANKL-mediated cell aggregation and cell fusion. Thus, there is cross-talk between these two pathways.

Familial interstitial nephritis with progressive renal failure

We describe a 53-year-old woman with chronic interstitial nephritis and asymptomatic impairment of renal function. Seven members of her family were suffering from renal failure and underwent hemodialysis. At the time of their hospital admissions, they had shown evidence of end-stage renal failure at 40 to 50 years of age. Lack of proteinuria, hematuria, hypertension, hyperuricemia, hearing loss, and visual impairment were present before the deterioration of the renal function. Renal biopsy of the presented case indicated chronic interstitial nephritis without glomerular basement membrane abnormalities. Progressive decline of renal function and the inheritance pattern of autosomal dominance in this family suggested the diagnosis of familial interstitial nephritis.

Response of atmospheric methane consumption by maine forest soils to exogenous aluminum salts

Atmospheric methane consumption by Maine forest soils was inhibited by additions of environmentally relevant levels of aluminum. Aluminum chloride was more inhibitory than nitrate or sulfate salts, but its effect was comparable to that of a chelated form of aluminum. Inhibition could be explained in part by the lower soil pH values which resulted from aluminum addition. However, significantly greater inhibition by aluminum than by mineral acids at equivalent soil pH values indicated that inhibition also resulted from direct effects of aluminum per se. The extent of inhibition by exogenous aluminum increased with increasing methane concentration for soils incubated in vitro. At methane concentrations of >10 ppm, inhibition could be observed when aluminum chloride was added at concentrations as low as 10 nmol g (fresh weight) of soil(-1). These results suggest that widespread acidification of soils and aluminum mobilization due to acid precipitation may exacerbate inhibition of atmospheric methane consumption due to changes in other parameters and increase the contribution of methane to global warming.

[Epidemiology and geo-pathology of malignant lymphomas with special emphasis on Japanese lymphomas]

The descriptive epidemiology and geo-pathology of malignant lymphomas have been hampered by the absence of a unified classification. Recent proposal of the REAL classification which will soon become the WHO classification is a significant step toward better understandings of the epidemiology of this interesting neoplasia. Worldwide epidemic of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma was discussed with possible relationships to herbicides. General characteristics of Japanese lymphomas as compared to Western lymphomas were described with special emphasis on the correlation between the low incidence rates of follicular lymphomas and Hodgkin's lymphomas.

Osseointegration around titanium screws placed into the areas between guided bone augmented sites compared with osseointegration around guided bone graft augmented sites in rabbit tibia

The aim of this study was to compare the degree of osseointegration around titanium screws placed into the areas between guided bone augmented sites and guided bone graft augmented sites in 8 Japanese white rabbit tibia. The skin and periosteum were incised and lifted to expose the inner surfaces of both tibia. Eight rabbits were divided into 2 groups: 1) a guided bone augmentation (GBA) group of 2 rabbits, and 2) a guided bone graft augmentation (GBCA) group of 6 rabbits. In the GBA group, the bone marrow was penetrated several times in both tibial bones. Three titanium screws were inserted into the bone so that the top of each screw was 3 mm above the bone surface and covered with an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene membrane (ePTFE). In the GBGA group autogenous cortical bone (10 mm x 10 mm x 1 mm) was taken from the left tibia and grafted on the inner surface of the right tibial bone, titanium screws being similarly inserted. The surgical site was covered by ePTFE. After healing for 2 months, the animals were euthanatized, and the experimental area was prepared for histological investigation. New bone had formed on the surgical sites in the GBA group and grafted bone had survived in the GBGA group, with no sign of infection or membrane exposure. The degree of osseointegration around the screw was 67.6 +/- 11.2% (mean +/- SD) in the GBA group and 78.8 +/- 11.9% in the GBGA group. There was no significant difference between the groups (p = 0.29). The ratio of mineralized bone to bone marrow was 45.7 +/- 6.2% in the GBA group and 64.4 +/- 4.4% in the GBGA group. There was a significant difference between the groups (p < 0.05). Although there was no significant difference for osseointegration around the screw placed into the GBA and GBGA sites, the quality of newly generated bone or grafted bone was quite different. Therefore, we suggest that predictable bone augmentation beyond the bone surface can be achieved by either the GBA or the GBGA procedure with ePTFE. However, it was difficult to conclude which procedure was superior with respect to the osseointegration around the titanium screw.

gamma delta T-cell lymphoma: a clinicopathologic study of 6 cases including extrahepatosplenic type

We report 6 cases of gamma delta T-cell lymphoma (GDTL) among 115 peripheral T-cell lymphomas over a 12-year period. All patients exhibited extranodal lymphomas, comprising 3 hepatosplenic, 1 cutaneous, 1 intestinal, and 1 thyroidal lymphoma. Despite therapies, all but 1 patient died of disease within 16 months of diagnosis. The cytologic features of lymphoma cells in 4 of 5 cases examined were very similar: coarsely reticulated nuclear chromatin, multiple small nucleoli, abundant faintly eosinophilic granular cytoplasm, and focal angiocentric proliferation. All 6 lymphomas showed Cd3+CD4-CD8-/+ phenotype. CD56 was positive in 3 cases, 1 of which was also CD16 positive. Perforin and T-cell intracellular antigen-1 were positive in all 5 cases examined. Southern blot analysis revealed clonal gene rearrangements of the T-cell receptor delta-chain gene in all 5 cases examined. Based on these findings, together with a review of the literature, GDTLs seem to have several common lineage-specific features, although clinical presentation and course of GDTL are heterogeneous.

Treatment of periodic leg movement disorder and restless leg syndrome with talipexole

In order to investigate the bedtime dose of talipexole, a D2 and alpha2 stimulant, on patients with periodic leg movement disorder (PLMD) and restless leg syndrome (RLS), we made a comparison of polysomnographic findings and subjective symptom ratings before and during 4 weeks of the treatment on five cases with RLS and PLMD. A significant decrease in both the frequencies of periodic leg movements and subjective symptom ratings and significant improvement of sleep composition were recognized during the treatment. We speculate that the combination of the agonistic action of D2 and alpha2 receptor with the drug might not only suppress PLMD and RLS but also improve sleep quality.

[Molecular genetic diagnostics and prognostic factors in lymphoma]

Recent advances in immunology and molecular biology have made considerable contribution to the diagnosis of lymphoma, which is a neoplasm of the immune system. Molecular diagnosis can be defined as "diagnostic testing directed at markers consisting of nucleotide sequences within DNA and RNA" (See reference 9.). The examination is now routinely applied to lymphoma diagnosis to identify the clonality, to estimate the cell of origin and normal counterpart, to investigate the etiology and pathogenesis including tumor progression, to detect minimal residual disease, and to evaluate the patient's prognosis. By this testing, oncologists and pathologists can obtain much important information for more objective diagnosis and appropriate management of patients with lymphomas. Although conventional examinations, such as histology, immunohistochemistry, and cytogenetics, are still required for selection of molecular genetic examinations and accurate interpretation of the results, they are undoubtedly a powerful tool for lymphoma diagnostics.

Vitamin A up-regulates expression of bone-type alkaline phosphatase in rat small intestinal crypt cell line and fetal rat small intestine

Vitamin A is a potent inducer for liver/bone/kidney alkaline phosphatase (L/B/K ALP) in a variety of tissues. However, the evidence for induction of L/B/K ALP by vitamin A in small intestine is limited. In this study, we investigated the influence of vitamin A on L/B/K ALP expression in rat small intestinal crypt IEC-6 cells and fetal rat small intestine. Treatment of IEC-6 cells with all-trans retinoic acid (RA) increased the levels of activity, protein and mRNA of L/B/K ALP, whereas enterocyte-specific proteins, including intestinal ALP, sucrase-isomaltase and glucose transporter-2, were not induced. The reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction technique revealed that this L/B/K ALP transcript had the bone-type but not the liver-type leader exon. IEC-6 cells constitutively expressed mRNAs of all subtypes of retinoic acid receptor (RAR) and retinoid X receptor (RXR) at varied concentrations. Among these receptor mRNAs, RARbeta mRNA quickly responded to RA treatment, and the level was doubled within 4 h. Gel mobility shift assay showed that RA induced an RXRE-binding activity in IEC-6 cells. The L/B/K ALP transcript, expressed in fetal rat small intestine, also contained the bone-type leader exon. Intragastric administration of 10 mg retinyl acetate to pregnant rats from gestational d 7 to 15 increased the levels of this transcript and enzyme in 15-d fetal rat small intestine. Our results suggest that vitamin A may be an important regulator for L/B/K ALP expression in fetal rat small intestine as well as in IEC-6 cells.

Effects of bioabsorbable and non-resorbable barrier membranes on bone augmentation in rabbit calvaria

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of bioabsorbable and non-resorbable membranes on experimental guided bone augmentation in 8 Japanese white rabbits. A cutaneous flap was demarcated and raised from the forehead of each animal, the periosteum was lifted, and the calvarial bone on both sides of the midline was exposed. A titanium screw was inserted into the bone on each side of the midline and one screw was covered with a bioabsorbable (polylactic acid) membrane and the other with a non-resorbable (expanded polytetrafluoroethylene) membrane. The implanted screws and membranes were then covered with the periosteum and cutaneous flap. After healing for 6 months, the animals were euthanized and the experimental area was prepared for histological investigation. New bone had formed under both membranes with no sign of infection or membrane exposure. The amount of newly generated bone (89.0 +/- 17.3% versus 54.7 +/- 14.0%, P <0.05) and the percentage of newly generated bone height (81.5 +/- 6.3% versus 58.9 +/- 7.8%, P <0.05) in the space beneath the non-resorbable membrane was greater than that beneath the bioabsorbable membrane. However, there were no statistically significant differences between the bioabsorbable and non-resorbable membranes with respect to the percentage areas of mineralized bone (52.3 +/- 11.3% versus 47.1 +/- 6.7%, P = 0.8658) and bone marrow (47.7 +/- 11.3% versus 52.9 +/- 6.7%, P = 0.4838) and bone contact with the screw (88.3 +/- 6.9% versus 89.2 +/- 7.3%, P = 0.9999). In conclusion, at least within the limitations of this rabbit model, we suggest that non-resorbable membranes with sufficient stiffness should be used to obtain greater bone volume and height instead of bioabsorbable membranes for the GBR procedure, and that this will facilitate predictable bone augmentation in spaces beyond the bone surface. Therefore, the bioabsorbable membrane could not replace the non-resorbable membrane used in this model.

Gamma/delta T cell lymphoma presenting in the subcutaneous tissue and small intestine in a patient with capillary leak syndrome

Peripheral T cell neoplasms originating from gamma/delta T cells are rarely reported, despite the development of hepatosplenic lymphoma from gamma/delta T cells. We report a case of multiple generated gamma/delta T cell lymphomas presenting in the subcutaneous tissue and small intestine in a patient with accompanying capillary leak syndrome. The patient, a 43-year-old male presented with remarkable systemic edema, pleural effusion, and ascites. Widespread tumors were evident in the subcutaneous tissue and in the small intestine. A biopsy revealed anaplastic large cell lymphoma in these lesions. Phenotypic examination showed that the neoplastic cells were positive for the surface markers CD3 and TCR delta, but negative for CD4, CD8 and TCR beta. Genomic analysis revealed a clonal rearrangement of the TCR genes encoding the gamma, delta, and beta chains. A polymerase chain reaction analysis of the gene encoding the TCR delta chain showed that the rearrangement occurred between V delta 3 and J delta 1, suggesting that neoplastic cells were generated in the early stages of T cell differentiation.

[Combination chemotherapy with cis-platinum and ifosfamide for hormone unresponsive prostate cancer]

PURPOSE

There is no effective therapy against hormone refractory prostate cancer. This led us to evaluate the effectiveness and toxicity of cis-platinum (CDDP) and ifosfamide (IFM) combination chemotherapy in the patients with hormone-unresponsive carcinoma of the prostate.

METHODS

Patients with hormone-unresponsive prostate cancer were scheduled to receive CDDP 70 mg/m2 intravenously on day 1 and IFM 1.2 g/m2/day intravenously on day 1 through day 5 of 28-day cycle.

RESULTS

Twenty seven patients with hormone unresponsive prostate cancer were enrolled onto this trial. Of these patients, seven (26%) demonstrated a partial objective response (PR), and ten (37%) a stable disease (ST). The response duration of PR cases lasted from 6 to 49 months with a median of 16 months and the response duration of PR + ST cases lasted from 3 to 36 months with a median of 10 months. Subjective improvement was obtained in 11 patients (41%). Survival duration of all cases were 4 to 89 months with a median of 23 months and probabilities of survival at 3 years and 5 years were 36% and 24%, respectively. The toxicity of this treatment was mostly mild to moderate, anemia (96%), leukocytopenia (89%), anorexia (81%), alopecia (67%), thrombocytopenia (44%), hematuria (38%), renal dysfunction (19%) and liver dysfunction (7%) were noticed. Severe toxicity was observed in two cases, one acute renal failure and one endotoxin shock.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that CDDP and IFM combination chemotherapy was active regimen for hormone unresponsive prostate cancer.

High proportion of missense mutations of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes in Japanese breast cancer families

Mutations in either of two recently identified genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2, are thought to be responsible for approximately two-thirds of all cases of autosomal-dominantly inherited breast cancer. To examine the nature and frequency of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations in Japanese families exhibiting a high incidence of breast cancer, we screened 78 unrelated families in this category for mutations of these two genes. Examining the entire coding sequences as well as exon-intron boundaries of both genes by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) and multiplex-SSCP analysis, we identified possible disease-causing alterations in BRCA1 among affected members of 15 families and in BRCA2 in another 14 families. In 15 of those 29 families, the affected individuals carried missense mutations, although most germline mutations reported worldwide have been deletions or nonsense mutations. Our results, indicating that missense mutations of BRCA1 and BRCA2 tend to predominate over frameshifts or nonsense mutations in Japanese breast cancer families, will contribute significantly to an understanding of mammary tumorigenesis in Japan, and will be of vital importance for future genetic testing.

Incomplete fractures in intact bilateral maxillary first molars: a case report

A case of incomplete fractures occurring bilaterally in intact maxillary first molars is described. The etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of incomplete tooth fractures are discussed. The clinical results in this case showed that early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further extension of the crack into the pulp and subsequent complete tooth fracture.

Comparison of osseointegration between hydroxyapatite-coated and uncoated threaded titanium dental implants placed into surgically-created bone defect in rabbit tibia

The purpose of this study was to compare the degree of osseointegration between hydroxyapatite (HA)-coated and uncoated threaded titanium dental implants placed into a surgically created bone defect with or without an expanded polytetrafluorethylene (ePTFE) membrane. A conventional implant site was prepared and either a HA-coated or an uncoated implant was placed in each tibia of 12 rabbits (conventional group). A bone defect approximately 3 mm in width was created on the distal end of the conventional site and either a HA-coated or an uncoated implant was placed there (bone defect group). For another group, the same procedure was performed as in the bone defect group, except the implant sites were covered with ePTFE membranes (ePTFE group). After 4 months, the rabbits were sacrificed. Specimens were prepared and examined histometrically. The results demonstrated that HA-coated threaded titanium dental implants consistently showed a greater amount of osseointegrated surface either in the conventional site or defect region with and without ePTFE membranes in this animal model. In conclusion, a HA-coated threaded titanium implant may be the choice of dental implants to establish greater osseointegration with the defect or conventional site.

[Mantle cell lymphoma associated with hyper-IgE syndrome]

A 69-year-old woman was admitted with generalized lymph node swelling and huge splenomegaly. CD5(+), Sm-IgM (+) and SmIgD (+) lymphocytes were increased in lymph nodes, spleen and bone marrow, and she was diagnosed as having mantle cell lymphoma. A diagnosis of hyper-IgE syndrome was also made, because IgE was markedly increased (174,780 u/ml) and chronic dermatitis, which was often complicated with infection, occurred repeatedly on her extremities. In this case, interleukin-4 was considered to be one of the factors involved in the hyper-IgE syndrome, because increased IgG1 and reduced IgG2 were observed. Immunological abnormality associated with the hyper-IgE syndrome seemed to contribute to the development malignant lymphoma in this case.

[Currently available classifications of lymphoid neoplasia and their clinical applicability]

Controversy and confusion in the classification of lymphoid neoplasia have long been sources of frustration as exemplifed by the statement of Rupert A. Willis in 1948, that "Nowhere in pathology has a chaos of names so clouded clear concept as in the subject of lymphoid tumors." Taxonomically, "Classifications are theories about the basis of natural order, not dull catalogues compiled only to avoid chaos." (Stephen J. Gould, 1989), but this definition can not always be applicable to the classifications of human diseases, even though they themselves are also biologic phenomena. The International Lymphoma Study Group has recently proposed "a revised European-American classification of lymphoid neoplasms", which has again resulted in the time of "the great debate". The major purpose of this article is, therefore, to assess the above classification.

Histological progression of follicular lymphoma associated with p53 mutation and rearrangement of the C-MYC gene

Follicular lymphoma is a low grade malignant lymphoma. However, some follicular lymphomas undergo histological transformation into higher grade malignant lymphomas. We recently encountered a diffuse large cell lymphoma which seemed to have progressed from a follicular lymphoma and which finally transformed into a small non-cleaved lymphoma. Each stage of the histological transformation was accompanied by increasing clinical grades of malignancy. It was suspected that in our patient a follicular lymphoma initially developed due to rearrangement of the BCL2 gene, and then underwent histological transformation into a diffuse large cell lymphoma, which was associated with p53 mutation. Subsequent rearrangement of C-MYC promoted the histological transformation of this diffuse large cell lymphoma into a small non-cleaved lymphoma. Our findings indicate that p53 mutation and rearrangement of C-MYC are involved in the histological transformation of follicular lymphomas into more advanced lymphomas.

Anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (Ki-1 lymphoma) with expression of IL-5 mRNA and eosinophilic invasion

We examined a patient with anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (Ki-1 lymphoma) showing eosinophilic invasion of the tumor tissues. The number of eosinophils in the peripheral blood changed as a function of the stage of the disease. The IL-5 gene was expressed in the tumor tissues, suggesting that the eosinophilic invasion and eosinophilia were caused by IL-5 derived from the lymphoma cells.

Anaplastic large cell lymphomas expressing the novel chimeric protein p80NPM/ALK: a distinct clinicopathologic entity

Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a subtype of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma characterized by the CD30+ large neoplastic cells and sometimes carries a t(2;5)(p23;q35). Recently, we found a novel hyperphosphorylated 80-kD protein tyrosine kinase, p80, in ALCLs with t(2;5). Subsequent cDNA cloning showed p80 to be a fusion protein of two genes, the novel tyrosine kinase gene and the nucleophosmin gene, in accordance with the sequence of the NPM/ALK gene (Morris et al, Science 263:1281, 1994). Meanwhile, the clinicopathologic features of p80-carrying ALCLs have remained unclear. Paraffin sections of 105 cases of ALCL were immunostained using anti-p80 antibody, and 30 of them were shown to express p80. Clinicopathologic comparison between p80-positive and -negative ALCLs showed that p80-positive cases occurred in a far younger patient age group (16.2 +/- 12.9 years; p80-negative cases, 51.0 +/- 22.3 years; P < .0001) and the patients showed a far better 5-year survival rate (79.8%; p80-negative group, 32.9%; P < .01). These data showed that p80-positive ALCL is a distinct entity both clinically and pathogenetically and should be differentiated from p80-negative ALCL.

Magnetic resonance imaging of subacute thyroiditis

Clinical, laboratory, and scintigraphic findings, and magnetic resonance (MR) images of three patients with subacute thyroiditis are presented in all three at the time of diagnosis. On T1-weighted images, regions of abnormality with irregular margins and slightly high intensity were demonstrated. On T2-weighted images, markedly increased intensity was shown in the same sites. On follow-up MRI in two patients after treatment, these findings had disappeared or become more normal.

[Pathology of malignant lymphomas]

Current problems relating pathology of malignant lymphomas were reviewed. Unique geopathologic features of malignant lymphomas have been increasingly made clear. Japanese lymphomas, previously reported as having relative excess of T cell lymphomas, are now proved similar to Euro-American lymphomas with regard to T/B ratio, i.e. 75% and 20% respectively, except ATLL related with HTLV-I. Instead, characteristics of Japanese lymphomas are 1) low incidence rate of overall lymphomas and 2) scarcity of Hodgkin's disease (HD) and follicular lymphomas. These differences seems to be related to the difference in HLA composition among susceptible individuals. Since HLA haplotypes regulate host's immunoreactivity through their unique molecular structures, it is possible that "narrow" cognitive molecules could trigger the autoimmune reaction and "broad" one could accept altered cell as "self", thus leading to the late-onset lymphomagenesis. Viewing the evidences that no consistent immuno-gene rearrangements were detected in significant cases of ALCL (anaplastic large cell lymphoma) and HD, it was suggested that these lymphomas derive from the precursor cell before the rearrangement of immunogenes. Thus, lymphomas could be divided into two categories, i.e. 1) pre-rearrangement lymphomas (HD and ALCL) and 2) post-rearrangement lymphomas (common NHL).

A patient with anaplastic large cell lymphoma (Ki-1 lymphoma) showing clonal integration of HTLV-1 proviral DNA

We encountered a patient with anaplastic large cell lymphoma (Ki-1 lymphoma) that originated in the stomach and showed histiocytic lymphoma-like morphology. CD43 antigen was positive, and rearrangement of TCR-beta gene was observed. The lymphoma was the T-cell type. Though no atypical lymphocytes or histological images specific to adult T-cell leukemia were observed, clonal integration of HTLV-1 proviral DNA was noted. Viruses such as HTLV-1 appear to be involved in the development of some anaplastic large cell lymphomas.

Hodgkin's disease associated with chronic myeloid leukemia. Determination of bcr-abl rearrangement in paraffin-embedded tumors using the polymerase chain reaction

A patient showing lymph node enlargement and tumors in the neck and axilla in the course of Philadelphia (Ph1) chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) was seen. There were no hematological findings suggestive of crisis. RNA was isolated from formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissue specimens for the polymerase chain reaction of bcr-abl. CML-type products were detected in the peripheral blood, but no bcr-abl products were found in the lymph nodes. These findings indicate a very rare case in which Hodgkin's disease developed during the course of CML.

Reverse interference method for measurement of hog cholera virus (HCV) and anti-HCV antibody

A new procedure was developed for the assay of the hog cholera virus (HCV) and anti-HCV antibody. Initially, the suppression effect of HCV on interferon (IFN) by HCV production was confirmed. Swine kidney cell cultures preinfected with HCV produced no IFN, even following the addition of IFN inducers. However the sensitivity of the cell to IFN was not influenced by the infection with this virus. Based on these results, a new method, named reverse interference method, was established. In this method, infective titer of HCV was determined by the appearance of cell pathogenic effects (CPE) induced by vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), which is caused by the suppression effect on the heterologous interference of GPE- strain of HCV against VSV infection in swine kidney cell cultures. This method showed nearly the same sensitivity as the END method. There was no difference in the infective titer of HCV and antibody titer against HCV as estimated by this method and the END method. The reverse interference method had advantages in rapidity and objectivity compared with the END method.