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Este estudio examina la educación ambiental relacionada con el cambio climático que poseen los docentes de la Universidad Nacional de Asunción y propone medidas que puedan contribuir con el desarrollo sostenible. Se utiliza una investigación con enfoque cualitativo, con un diseño no experimental y del tipo descriptivo. Como instrumento de recolección de datos se emplea la técnica de entrevistas personales semiestructuradas, basadas en un cuestionario. Se identifica que la población de estudio cuenta con una percepción adecuada del cambio climático. Sin embargo, se evidencia que los miembros de dicha población poseen medianos niveles de conocimientos sobre las informaciones científicas que sustentan la temática. Por tanto, se observa la necesidad de fortalecer dichos conocimientos para evitar barreras en el momento de transmitir las ciencias a los estudiantes. Por otra parte, poseen una actitud positiva para contribuir con el cuidado del medioambiente. Asimismo, perciben la necesidad de que se introduzcan algunas propuestas pedagógicas que promuevan una mejor comprensión de la temática y favorezcan la formación de los futuros profesionales con valor de sostenibilidad.

Cells from strain GE09T, isolated from an artificially immersed nanofibrous cellulose plate in the deep sea, were Gram-stain-negative, motile, aerobic cells that could grow with cellulose as their only nutrient. Strain GE09T was placed among members of Cellvibrionaceae , in the Gammaproteobacteria , with Marinagarivorans algicola Z1T, a marine degrader of agar, as the closest relative (97.4 % similarity). The average nucleotide identity and digital DNA–DNA hybridization values between GE09T and M. algicola Z1T were 72.5 and 21.2 %, respectively. Strain GE09T degraded cellulose, xylan and pectin, but not starch, chitin and agar. The different carbohydrate-active enzymes encoded in the genomes of strain GE09T and M. algicola Z1T highlights their differences in terms of target energy sources and reflects their isolation environments. The major cellular fatty acids of strain GE09T were C18 : 1 ω7c, C16 : 0 and C16 : 1 ω7c. The polar lipid profile showed phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine. The major respiratory quinone was Q-8. Based on these distinct taxonomic characteristics, strain GE09T represents a new species in the genus Marinagarivorans , for which we propose the name Marinagarivorans cellulosilyticus sp. nov. (type strain GE09T=DSM 113420T=JCM 35003T).

A sulphate-reducing magnetotactic bacterium, designated strain FSS-1T, was isolated from sediments and freshwater of Suwa Pond located in Hidaka, Saitama, Japan. Strain FSS-1T was a motile, Gram-negative and curved rod-shaped bacterium that synthesizes bullet-shaped magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles in each cell. Strain FSS-1T was able to grow in the range of pH 6.5–8.0 (optimum, pH 7.0), 22–34 °C (optimum, 28 °C) and with 0–8.0 g l−1 NaCl (optimum, 0–2.0 g l−1 NaCl). Strain FSS-1T grew well in the presence of 50 µM ferric quinate as an iron source. The major fatty acids were anteiso-C15 : 0, iso-C15 : 0 and anteiso-C17 : 0. The major menaquinone was MK-7 (H2). Strain FSS-1T contained desulfoviridin, cytochrome c 3 and catalase, but did not contain oxidase. Strain FSS-1T used fumarate, lactate, pyruvate, malate, formate/acetate, succinate, tartrate, ethanol, 1-propanol, peptone, soytone and yeast extract as electron donors, while the strain used sulphate, thiosulphate and fumarate as electron acceptors. Fumarate was fermented in the absence of electron acceptors. Analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence showed that strain FSS-1T is a member of the genus Fundidesulfovibrio . The gene sequence showed 96.7, 95.0, 92.0, 91.2 and 91.4% similarities to the most closely related members of the genera Fundidesulfovibrio putealis B7-43T, Fundidesulfovibrio butyratiphilus BSYT, Desulfolutivibrio sulfoxidireducens DSM 107105T, Desulfolutivibrio sulfodismutans ThAc01T and Solidesulfovibrio magneticus RS-1T, respectively. The DNA G+C content of strain FSS-1T was 67.5 mol%. The average nucleotide identity value between strain FSS-1T and F. putealis B7-43T was 80.7 %. Therefore, strain FSS-1T represents a novel species within the genus Fundidesulfovibrio , for which the name Fundidesulfovibrio magnetotacticus sp. nov. is proposed (=JCM 32405T=DSM 110007T).

A novel, obligately anaerobic bacterium (strain SURF-ANA1T) was isolated from deep continental subsurface fluids at a depth of 1500 m below surface in the former Homestake Gold Mine (now Sanford Underground Research Facility, in Lead, South Dakota, USA). Cells of strain SURF-ANA1Twere Gram-negative, helical, non-spore-forming and were 0.25–0.55×5.0–75.0 µm with a wavelength of 0.5–0.62 µm. Strain SURF-ANA1Tgrew at 15–50 °C (optimally at 40 °C), at pH 4.8–9.0 (pH 7.2) and in 1.0–40.0 g l−1NaCl (10 g l−1NaCl). The strain grew chemoheterotrophically with hydrogen or mono-, di- and polysaccharides as electron donors. The major cellular fatty acids in order of decreasing abundance (comprising >5% of total) were 10-methyl C16:0, iso-C15:0, C18:2and C18:0dimethyl acetal (DMA) and C20:0methylene-nonadecanoic acid. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence of strain SURF-ANA1Tindicated a closest relationship with the recently characterizedRectinema cohabitans(99%). Despite high sequence identity, because of its distinct physiology, morphology and fatty acid profile, strain SURF-ANA1Tis considered to represent a novel species within the genusRectinema, for which the nameRectinema subterraneumsp. nov. is proposed. To our knowledge, this is the first report of an isolate within the phylumSpirochaetesfrom the deep (>100 m) terrestrial subsurface. The GenBank/EMBL/DDBJ accession numbers for the 16S rRNA gene and genomic sequences of strain SURF-ANA1Tare KU359248 and GCF 009768935.1, respectively. The type strain ofRectinema subterraneumis SURF-ANA1T(=ATCC TSD-67=JCM 32656).

Intravenous administration of magnesium with a short hydration regimen is recommended for patients receiving high-dose cisplatin to protect against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. However, the optimal dose of magnesium supplementation has not been clarified. The aim of this trial was to investigate the safety and efficacy of a short hydration regimen with 20 mEq of magnesium supplementation for lung cancer patients receiving cisplatin-based chemotherapy. The key eligibility criteria included cytologically or histologically diagnosed lung cancer, candidacy for cisplatin-based (≥ 60 mg/m2) chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy, no prior chemotherapy, aged 20–75 years, and adequate renal function. Cisplatin was administered with pre-hydration with 20 mEq of magnesium sulfate. Mannitol was administered just before cisplatin infusion to enforce diuresis. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients who underwent cisplatin-based chemotherapy with a short hydration regimen with 20 mEq of magnesium supplementation without a grade 2 or higher elevation in creatinine. Forty patients with a median age of 66 years (range 35–74) were prospectively enrolled. Median baseline creatinine was 0.71 mg/dL. Median dose of cisplatin in the first cycle was 80 mg/m2. In the first cycle, no patients developed grade 2 creatinine toxicity. During the treatment period, one patient developed grade 2 creatinine elevation; thus, the proportion of patients without a grade 2 or higher elevation in creatinine was 97.5% (95% confidence interval 86.8–99.9). A short hydration regimen with 20 mEq of magnesium supplementation is safe and feasible for patients with lung cancer receiving cisplatin-based chemotherapy.

A novel slow-growing, facultatively anaerobic, filamentous bacterium, strain MO-CFX2T, was isolated from a methanogenic microbial community in a continuous-flow bioreactor that was established from subseafloor sediment collected off the Shimokita Peninsula of Japan. Cells were multicellular filamentous, non-motile and Gram-stain-negative. The filaments were generally more than 20 µm (up to approximately 200 µm) long and 0.5–0.6 µm wide. Cells possessed pili-like structures on the cell surface and a multilayer structure in the cytoplasm. Growth of the strain was observed at 20–37 °C (optimum, 30 °C), pH 5.5–8.0 (pH 6.5–7.0), and 0–30 g l−1 NaCl (5 g l−1 NaCl). Under optimum growth conditions, doubling time and maximum cell density were estimated to be approximately 19 days and ~105 cells ml−1, respectively. Strain MO-CFX2T grew chemoorganotrophically on a limited range of organic substrates in anaerobic conditions. The major cellular fatty acids were saturated C16 : 0 (47.9 %) and C18 : 0 (36.9 %), and unsaturated C18 : 1ω9c (6.0 %) and C16 : 1ω7 (5.1 %). The G+C content of genomic DNA was 63.2 mol%. 16S rRNA gene-based phylogenetic analysis showed that strain MO-CFX2T shares a notably low sequence identity with its closest relatives, which were Thermanaerothrix daxensis GNS-1T and Thermomarinilinea lacunifontana SW7T (both 85.8 % sequence identity). Based on these phenotypic and genomic properties, we propose the name Aggregatilinea lenta gen. nov., sp. nov. for strain MO-CFX2T (=KCTC 15625T, =JCM 32065T). In addition, we also propose the associated family and order as Aggregatilineaceae fam. nov. and Aggregatilineales ord. nov., respectively.

A novel hydrogenotrophic methanogen, strain HHBT, was isolated from a deep-sea hydrothermal vent chimney sample collected from Beebe Vent Field at the Mid-Cayman Spreading Center, Caribbean Sea. The cells were non-motile regular to irregular cocci possessing several flagella. The novel isolate grew at 60–80 °C, pH 5.0–7.4 and with 1–4 % of NaCl (w/v). The isolate utilized H2/CO2 as the only substrates for growth and methane production. The results of phylogenetic analyses of both 16S rRNA and mcrA gene sequences and comparative genome analysis indicated that HHBT represented a member of the order Methanococcales , and was closely related to the members of the genera Methanothermococcus and Methanotorris . The most closely related species were Methanothermococcus okinawensis IH1T and Methanotorris igneus Kol 5T in comparison of 16S rRNA gene sequences (each with 93 % identity), and Methanotorris formicicus Mc-S-70T in the case of deduced amino acid sequence similarity of mcrA genes (92 % similarity). The ANI and AAI values between HHBT and the members of the genera Methanothermococcus and Methanotorris were 69–72 % and 66–70 %, respectively. Although many of the morphological and physiological characteristics were quite similar between HHBT and the species of the genera Methanothermococcus and Methanotorris , they were distinguishable by the differences in susceptibility to antibiotics, formate utilization, growth temperature and NaCl ranges. On the basis of these phenotypic, phylogenetic and genomic properties, we propose that strain HHBT represents a novel species, of a novel genus, Methanofervidicoccus abyssi gen. nov., sp. nov. The type strain is HHBT (=JCM 32161T=DSM 105918T).

AIM To investigate the real-world efficacy and safety of sofosbuvir/ribavirin (SOF/RBV) therapy for Japanese patients with genotype 2 hepatitis C virus (GT2-HCV). METHODS A total of 182 patients with GT2-HCV infection who received SOF/RBV therapy for 12 wk at our hospital were enrolled. The patients comprised 122 men and 60 women (age range: 17-84 years; mean age ± SD: 60.1 ± 12.1 years). Relationships between virological response and clinical data were examined by logistic regression analyses. RESULTS The proportions of patients with liver cirrhosis and history of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were 29.0% and 17.3%, respectively. The proportion of patients with prior interferon (IFN)-based therapy was 25.6%. SOF/RBV therapy rapidly decreased HCV RNA levels. Several patients required RBV dose reduction because of anemia or fatigue. Four patients discontinued the therapy. The rates of sustained virological response at 12 wk after the end of treatment were 87.9% (intention to treat: 160/182) and 94.1% (per protocol: 159/169). Multivariate analyses showed that history of HCC or IFN-based therapy independently reduced the efficacy of SOF/RBV therapy. CONCLUSION SOF/RBV therapy for GT2-HCV is safe, highly tolerated, and effective. History of HCC or IFN-based therapy independently reduces the efficacy of this treatment.

The patient was an 81-year-old woman. At age 73, she developed difficulties in climbing stairs and swallowing, and became unable to open bottles at age 74. She had been walking with a cane since age 76. Accidental chest X-ray findings showed bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy at age 78. Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) was elevated. Lymphocyte proliferation was prominent in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Sarcoidosis was suspected, but she was followed without treatment due to lack of respiratory symptoms. She became unable to walk without assistance at age 80 and visited our hospital with a complaint of gait disturbance at age 81. Moderate diffuse muscle atrophy in extremities was evident. Muscle weakness of finger flexion and knee extension were remarkable. The muscle involvement pattern was similar to sporadic inclusion body myositis (sIBM). However, radiographically, rectus femoris and semitendinosus muscles are selectively preserved. This radiogaphic finding was consistent with chronic sarcoid myopathy (CSM). We reached a final diagnosis of CSM based on the presence of granulomas in the muscle biopsy specimen, BHL in fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography, the previous finding of elevated ACE, and bronchoscopy results. In conclusion, CSM is a treatable disease and should thus be differentiated from sIBM. This should not be done solely based on clinical findings, but instead, muscle biopsy should be performed. Moreover, muscle selectivity may be useful in distinguishing between CSM and sIBM.

A novel, anaerobic bacterium, strain MO-SEDIT, was isolated from a methanogenic microbial community, which was originally obtained from marine subsurface sediments collected from off the Shimokita Peninsula of Japan. Cells were Gram-stain-negative, non-motile, non-spore-forming rods, 0.4–1.4 μm long by 0.4–0.6 μm wide. The cells also formed long filaments of up to about 11 μm. The strain grew on amino acids (i.e. valine, leucine, isoleucine, methionine, glycine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, lysine and arginine), pyruvate and melezitose in the presence of yeast extract. Growth was observed at 4–37 °C (optimally at 30 °C), at pH 6.0 and 8.5 (optimally at 7.0–7.5) and in 0–60 g l− 1 NaCl (optimally 20 g NaCl l− 1). The G+C content of the DNA was 32.0 mol%. The polar lipids of strain MO-SEDIT were phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidyl lipids and unknown lipids. The major cellular fatty acids (>10 % of the total) were C14 : 0, C16 : 1ω9 and C16 : 0 dimethyl aldehyde. Comparative sequence analysis of the 16S rRNA gene showed that strain MO-SEDIT was affiliated with the genus Sedimentibacter within the phylum Firmicutes. It was related most closely to the type strain of Sedimentibacter saalensis (94 % sequence similarity). Based on the phenotypic and genetic characteristics, strain MO-SEDIT is considered to represent a novel species of the genus Sedimentibacter, for which the name Sedimentibacter acidaminivorans sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is MO-SEDIT ( = JCM 17293T = DSM 24004T).

There are individual differences in the frequency of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) in cancer patients. We investigated the individual variability in susceptibility to CINV with focus on both behavioral factors and genetic factors in Japanese cancer patients. We performed a prospective study to investigate the association between patient attributes (backgrounds and habits as well as gene polymorphisms) and anorexia, nausea, or vomiting in 55 Japanese cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy at Nagoya University Hospital. We found that gender (female), use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, susceptibility to motion sickness, and anxiety were associated with the frequency of CINV. Gene polymorphisms of rs1076560 (dopamine D2 receptor gene), rs6766410 (serotonin 5-HT3C receptor gene) and rs4680 (catechol-O-methyltransferase gene) were also associated. Our data suggest that these attributes may thus be risk factors for CINV. Our results provide novel information that can be used to predict the incidence of CINV in Japanese patients undergoing chemotherapy; this can help provide a substantial improvement in supportive care for patients with different types of cancer.

Polyvinyl-alcohol-degrading bacteria were isolated from the fruit of a grape in Yokosuka, Japan. The isolated strain, Zumi 37T, was a Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped, motile, non-spore-forming and strictly aerobic chemo-organotroph, showing optimal growth at pH 7.5, 30 °C and 0.1 % (w/v) NaCl. The major respiratory quinone was Q-8. The predominant fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0, C16 : 0 and C16 : 1ω7c. The major polyamines were homospermidine and putrescine. The predominant polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine. The DNA G+C content of the novel strain was 64.2 mol%. 16S rRNA gene sequence comparison revealed that strain Zumi 37T belongs to the family Sinobacteraceae within the class Gammaproteobacteria . Steroidobacter denitrificans DSM 18526T was the most closely related species with a validly published name, with 98.0 % similarity based on 16S rRNA gene sequence comparison (and showed less than 87.5 % sequence similarity to members of the genera Alkanibacter , Fontimonas , Hydrocarboniphaga , Nevskia and Solimonas with known 16S rRNA gene sequences). Phenotypes for growth under aerobic conditions and on complex media and major fatty acid composition, differed greatly from those of with comparatively high 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity. Based on phylogenetic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic evidence, it is proposed that strain Zumi 37T represents a novel species in a new genus for which the name Povalibacter uvarum gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of the type species is Zumi 37T ( = JCM 18749T = DSM 26723T).

Although the mechanisms responsible for acute liver failure (ALF) have not yet been fully elucidated, studies have indicated that intrahepatic macrophage activation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of ALF through intrahepatic microcirculatory disorder and consequent parenchymal cell death. Intrahepatic microcirculatory disorder has been demonstrated in animal models using intravital microscopy; however, the limitations of this method include simultaneously evaluating blood flow and the surrounding pathological changes. Therefore, in this study, we devised a novel method involving tetramethylrhodamine isothiocyanate (TRITC)-dextran administration for the pathological assessment of hepatic microcirculation. In addition, we aimed to elucidate the mechanisms through which intrahepatic microcirculatory disorder progresses with relation to activated macrophages. ALF was induced in Wistar rats by exposure to lipopolysaccharide and D-galactosamine. Intrahepatic microcirculation and microcirculatory disorder in zone 3 (pericentral zone) of the livers of rats with ALF was observed. Immunohistochemical examinations in conjunction with TRITC-dextran images revealed that the macrophages were mainly distributed in zone 2 (intermediate zone), while cleaved caspase-3-positive hepatocytes, pimonidazole and hypoxia-inducible factor 1-α were abundant in zone 3. We also found that 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase (NOX)4-positive cells were predominantly located in the zone 3 parenchyma. The majority of apoptotic hepatocytes in zone 3 were co-localized with NOX4. Our results revealed that the apoptotic cells in zone 3 were a result of hypoxic conditions induced by intrahepatic microcirculatory disorder, and were not induced by activated macrophages. The increased levels of oxidative stress in zone 3 may contribute to the progression of hepatocyte apoptosis.

A moderately halophilic, slightly acidophilic, aerobic bacterium, designated strain YTM-1T, was isolated from the body surface of Malacocottus gibber. Cells were Gram-stain-negative, short rods or cocci, approximately 0.9–1.1 µm long and 1.0–1.8 µm wide. Strain YTM-1T was able to grow with 1–30 % NaCl (optimum, 7.5–10 %, w/v), at 4–30 °C (optimum, 20–25 °C) and at pH 3.8–9.5 (optimum, pH 5.0–5.5). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities showed that strain YTM-1T belonged to the genus Salinisphaera with low similarity values to the type strains of recognized species of this genus (T consisted of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine, three unknown phospholipids and one unknown lipid. The predominant isoprenoid quinone was Q-8. The major fatty acids were C19 : 0ω8c cyclo, C18 : 1ω7c, C16 : 1ω5c and C16 : 0. The DNA G+C content of strain YTM-1T was 67.3 mol%. These phylogenetic, physiological and chemotaxonomic data indicated that strain YTM-1T represents a novel species of the genus Salinisphaera , for which the name Salinisphaera japonica sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is YTM-1T ( = JCM 18087T = CECT 8012T). An emended description of the genus Salinisphaera is also proposed.

A facultatively anaerobic organoheterotroph, designated JAM-BA0302T, was isolated from a deep subseafloor sediment at a depth of 247.1 m below the seafloor off the Shimokita Peninsula of Japan in the north-western Pacific Ocean (Site C9001 , water depth 1180 m). Cells of strain JAM-BA0302T showed gliding motility and were thin, long rods with peritrichous fimbriae-like structures. Growth occurred at 4–37 °C (optimum 30 °C; doubling time 8 h), at pH 5.4–8.3 (optimum pH 7.5) and with 5–60 g NaCl l−1 (optimum 20–25 g l−1). The isolate utilized proteinaceous substrates such as yeast extract, tryptone, casein and Casamino acids with O2 respiration or fermentation. Strain JAM-BA0302T was a piezotolerant bacterium that could grow at pressures as high as 25 MPa under aerobic conditions and 10 MPa under anaerobic conditions. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 43.2 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain JAM-BA0302T was most closely related to yet-undescribed strains recently isolated from various marine sedimentary environments (>99.6 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity) and was moderately related to Sunxiuqinia elliptica DQHS-4T, isolated from a sea cucumber farm sediment (95.5 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity) within the Bacteroidetes . The phylogenetic analysis suggested that the isolate should belong to the genus Sunxiuqinia . However, low DNA–DNA relatedness (. We propose here a novel species of the genus Sunxiuqinia , with the name Sunxiuqinia faeciviva sp. nov. The type strain is JAM-BA0302T ( = JCM 15547T = NCIMB 14481T).

A novel marine thermophilic and heterotrophic Anaerolineae bacterium in the phylum Chloroflexi, strain SW7 T , was isolated from an in situ colonization system deployed in the main hydrothermal vent of the Taketomi submarine hot spring field located on the southern part of Yaeyama Archipelago, Japan. The microbial community associated with the hydrothermal vent was predominated by thermophilic heterotrophs such as Thermococcaceae and Anaerolineae, and the next dominant population was thermophilic sulfur oxidizers. Both aerobic and anaerobic hydrogenotrophs including methanogens were detected as minor populations. During the culture-dependent viable count analysis in this study, an Anaerolineae strain SW7 T was isolated from an enrichment culture at a high dilution rate. Strain SW7 T was an obligately anaerobic heterotroph that grew with fermentation and had non-motile thin rods 3.5–16.5 µm in length and 0.2 µm in width constituting multicellular filaments. Growth was observed between 37–65°C (optimum 60°C), pH 5.5–7.3 (optimum pH 6.0), and 0.5–3.5% (w/v) NaCl concentration (optimum 1.0%). Based on the physiological and phylogenetic features of a new isolate, we propose a new species representing a novel genus Thermomarinilinea: the type strain of Thermomarinilinea lacunofontalis sp. nov., is SW7 T (=JCM15506 T =KCTC5908 T ).

Background: Nedaplatin (NDP)-related hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) trigger adverse clinical events. Prediction and prevention of NDP-HSRs are thus essential to minimize the risk and maximize the benefit of NDP therapy. However, the incidence of NDP-HSRs and the associated risk factors remain unclear. Methods: We retrospectively examined patients who received NDP monotherapy between April 2011 and July 2015 in Nagoya University Hospital. HSRs severity was defined according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 4 (CTCAE ver.4). Risk factors for NDP-HSRs were determined using multivariate logistic regression. Results: Of 111 patients who received NDP monotherapy, 90 (81%) were female; median age was 59 years (range, 29–78 years). Eighty-eight patients had gynecological cancer and 20 suffered from head and neck cancer. Eight of 111 patients (7.2%) experienced NDP-HSRs, six of which developed in the second NDP cycle. However, all patients with NDP-HSRs were treated with carboplatin (CBDCA) for more than three cycles. Grade 3 and 4 HSRs developed in 2 patients. NDP-HSRs were significantly associated with a history of CBDCA-HSRs (odds ratio 37.5, 95% confidence interval 5.38–262, p < 0.001) and with the interval between NDP administration and the previous platinum treatment (odds ratio 13.9, 95% confidence interval 1.23–158, p = 0.034). Conclusion: The risk of NDP-HSRs increases in patients with a history of CBDCA-HSRs and in those administered NDP for more than 6 months after previous platinum treatment. Such individuals must be closely monitored if given NDP, even if they are expected to benefit from the treatment.

A moderately psychrophilic, aerobic, hydrogen- and sulfur-oxidizing bacterium, designated strain MAS2T, was isolated from a tank containing coastal seawater from Tokyo Bay and a block of beef tallow added as organic material. Growth occurred under aerobic chemolithoautotrophic conditions in the presence of molecular hydrogen, thiosulfate, tetrathionate, elemental sulfur or sulfide as the sole energy source and bicarbonate as a carbon source. The isolate represented a Gram-staining-negative rod with a single polar flagellum and grew in artificial seawater medium with thiosulfate at 2–40 °C (optimum 30 °C). The isolate grew in media with thiosulfate at Na+ concentrations between 30 and 1380 mM (optimum 270 mM). MAS2T possessed C16 : 0, C16 : 1 and C18 : 1 as the major fatty acids. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 39.6 mol%. The 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity analysis showed that the isolate represented a member of the genus Thiomicrospira within the class Gammaproteobacteria and was most closely related to Thiomicrospira frisia JB-A2T. On the basis of phenotypic and molecular properties, the isolate represents a novel species of the genus Thiomicrospira , for which the name Thiomicrospira hydrogeniphila sp. nov. is proposed (type strain, MAS2T=JCM 30760T=DSM 100274T).

A novel iron-oxidizing chemolithoautotrophic bacterium, strain ET2T, was isolated from a deep-sea sediment in a hydrothermal field of the Bayonnaise knoll of the Izu-Ogasawara arc. Cells were bean-shaped, curved short rods. Growth was observed at a temperature range of 15-30 °C (optimum 25 °C, doubling time 24 h) and a pH range of 5.8-7.0 (optimum pH 6.4) in the presence of NaCl at a range of 1.0-4.0 % (optimum 2.75 %). The isolate was a microaerophilic, strict chemolithoautotroph capable of growing using ferrous iron and molecular oxygen (O2) as the sole electron donor and acceptor, respectively; carbon dioxide as the sole carbon source; and either ammonium or nitrate as the sole nitrogen source. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence indicated that the new isolate was related to the only previously isolated Mariprofundus species, M. ferrooxydans. Although relatively high 16S rRNA gene similarity (95 %) was found between the new isolate and M. ferrooxydans, the isolate was distinct in terms of cellular fatty acid composition, genomic DNA G+C content and cell morphology. Furthermore, genomic comparison between ET2T and M. ferrooxydans PV-1 indicated that the genomic dissimilarity of these strains met the standard for species-level differentiation. On the basis of its physiological and molecular characteristics, strain ET2T (= KCTC 15556T = JCM 30585 T) represents a novel species of Mariprofundus, for which the name Mariprofundus micogutta is proposed. We also propose the subordinate taxa Mariprofundales ord. nov. and Zetaproteobacteria classis nov. in the phylum Proteobacteria.

A novel, facultatively anaerobic bacterium (strain JAM-BA0501T) was isolated from a deep subseafloor sediment sample at a depth of 247 m below seafloor off the Shimokita Peninsula of Japan in the north-western Pacific Ocean (Site C9001, 1180 m water depth). Cells of strain JAM-BA0501T were Gram-negative, filamentous, non-spore-forming and motile on solid medium by gliding. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence of strain JAM-BA0501T indicated a distant relationship to strains representing genera within the order Bacteroidales , such as Alkaliflexus imshenetskii Z-7010T (91.1 % similarity), Marinilabilia salmonicolor ATCC 19041T (86.2 %) and Anaerophaga thermohalophila Fru22T (89.3 %). The new isolate produced isoprenoid quinones with menaquinone MK-7 as the major component, and the predominant fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0 and anteiso-C15 : 0. The DNA G+C content of the isolate was 42.9 mol%. Based on its taxonomic distinctiveness, strain JAM-BA0501T is considered to represent a novel species of a new genus within the family Marinilabiliaceae , for which the name Geofilum rubicundum gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Geofilum rubicundum is JAM-BA0501T ( = JCM 15548T = NCIMB 14482T).

A novel chemolithoautotrophic hydrogen-oxidizing and sulfur-reducing bacterium, strain 496Chim(T), was isolated from a deep-sea hydrothermal vent chimney collected from the hydrothermal field at the summit of Nikko Seamount field, in the Mariana Arc. Cells were rods or curved rods, motile by means of a single polar flagellum. Growth was observed between 15 and 45 °C (optimum 37 °C; doubling time, 2.1 h) and between pH 5.3 and 8.0 (optimum pH 6.0). The isolate was a strictly anaerobic, obligate chemolithoautotroph capable of growth using molecular hydrogen as the sole energy source, carbon dioxide as the sole carbon source, ammonium or nitrate as the sole nitrogen source, and elemental sulfur as the electron acceptor. The G+C content of genomic DNA was 35 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that the new isolate belonged to the class Epsilonproteobacteria, but the isolate was distantly related to the previously described Epsilonproteobacteria species potentially at the genus level (90 %). On the basis of its physiological and molecular characteristics, strain 496Chim(T) (=DSM 22050(Τ) = JCM 15747(Τ) = NBRC 105224(Τ)) represents the sole species of a new genus, Thiofractor, for which the name Thiofractor thiocaminus is proposed.

A novel methane-oxidizing bacterium, strain HTM55T, was isolated from subsurface hot aquifer water from a Japanese gold mine. Strain HTM55T was a Gram-negative, aerobic, motile, coccoid bacterium with a single polar flagellum and the distinctive intracytoplasmic membrane arrangement of a type I methanotroph. Strain HTM55T was a moderately thermophilic, obligate methanotroph that grew on methane and methanol at 37–65 °C (optimum 55–60 °C). The isolate grew at pH 5.2–7.5 (optimum 5.8–6.3) and with 0–1 % NaCl (optimum 0–0.3 %). The ribulose monophosphate pathway was operative for carbon assimilation. The DNA G+C content was 54.4 mol% and the major fatty acids were C16 : 0 (52.0 %) and C18 : 1ω7c (34.8 %). Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence indicated that strain HTM55T was closely related to Methylothermus thermalis MYHTT (99.2 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity), which is within the class Gammaproteobacteria. However, DNA–DNA relatedness between strain HTM55T and Methylothermus thermalis MYHTT was ≤39 %. On the basis of distinct phylogenetic, chemotaxonomic and physiological characteristics, strain HTM55T represents a novel species of the genus Methylothermus, for which the name Methylothermus subterraneus sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is HTM55T ( = JCM 13664T = DSM 19750T).

Strain YSM-79T was isolated from commercial salt made from seawater in Yonaguni island, Okinawa, Japan. The strain is an aerobic, Gram-negative, chemo-organotrophic and extremely halophilic archaeon. Cells are short rods that lyse in distilled water. Growth occurs at 1.5–5.3 M NaCl (optimum 2.5–3.0 M), pH 5.0–8.8 (optimum pH 5.2–6.3) and 20–55 °C (optimum 40 °C). Mg2+ is required for growth, with maximum growth at 200–300 mM Mg2+. Polar lipid analysis revealed the presence of phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerophosphate methyl ester, sulfated diglycosyl diether-1 and five unidentified glycolipids. The G+C content of the DNA was 64 mol%. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, strain YSM-79T was determined to be a member of the family Halobacteriaceae, with the closest related genus being Halobacterium (94 % sequence identity). In addition, the rpoB′ gene sequence of strain YSM-79T had Halobacteriaceae. The results of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and phylogenetic analysis suggested that strain YSM-79T should be placed in a new genus, Salarchaeum gen. nov., as a representative of Salarchaeum japonicum sp. nov. The type strain is YSM-79T ( = JCM 16327T = CECT 7563T).

A novel methane-producing archaeon, strain SMSPT, was isolated from an anaerobic, propionate-degrading enrichment culture that was originally obtained from granular sludge in a mesophilic upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor used to treat a beer brewery effluent. Cells were non-motile, blunt-ended, straight rods, 1.0–2.6 μm long by 0.5 μm wide; cells were sometimes up to 7 μm long. Asymmetrical cell division was observed in rod-shaped cells. Coccoid cells (0.5–1.0 μm in diameter) were also observed in mid- to late-exponential phase cultures. Growth was observed between 10 and 40 °C (optimum, 30–33 °C) and pH 7.0 and 7.6 (optimum, pH 7.4). The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 56.2 mol%. The strain utilized formate and hydrogen for growth and methane production. Based on comparative sequence analyses of the 16S rRNA and mcrA (encoding the alpha subunit of methyl-coenzyme M reductase, a key enzyme in the methane-producing pathway) genes, strain SMSPT was affiliated with group E1/E2 within the order Methanomicrobiales. The closest relative based on both 16S rRNA and mcrA gene sequences was Methanoregula boonei 6A8T (96.3 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, 85.4 % deduced McrA amino acid sequence similarity). The percentage of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity indicates that strain SMSPT and Methanoregula boonei 6A8T represent different species within the same genus. This is supported by our findings of shared phenotypic properties, including cell morphology and growth temperature range, and phenotypic differences in substrate usage and pH range. Based on these genetic and phenotypic properties, we propose that strain SMSPT represents a novel species of the genus Methanoregula, for which we propose the name Methanoregula formicica sp. nov., with the type strain SMSPT (=NBRC 105244T =DSM 22288T).

Although the mechanism involved in acute liver failure (ALF) has not yet been clarified, microcirculatory disturbance in the liver appears to play a pivotal role in the progression of this disease. To confirm the existence of hepatic hypoxic conditions, we evaluated the amounts of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in hepatocytes, since its production increases under low oxygen concentrations. Histological examination was performed in 7 patients with ALF. All 7 patients underwent a liver biopsy during the acute phase of ALF, and 4 of them underwent a second biopsy during the recovery phase. The obtained samples were immunohistochemically stained with anti-LDH5 and anti-CD-68 antibodies. As controls, we examined samples from patients with acute hepatitis, chronic hepatitis and liver cirrhosis. The production of LDH by hepatocytes and the number of CD-68 positive macrophages were markedly increased at the acute phase of ALF, and both of these effects abruptly decreased during the recovery phase. By contrast, most of the samples from the patients with chronic hepatitis and acute hepatitis showed slightly any increase in LDH staining. In cirrhotic patients, partially elevated LDH production was observed mainly around the central vein, but the staining intensity was less compared to that in ALF patients. Our findings indicate that hepatic hypoxic conditions exist in ALF at the acute phase and seem to closely correlate with macrophage overactivation in the liver. We speculate that microcirculatory disturbance may be a key process in the development and progression of ALF.

Strain YSM-123T was isolated from commercial salt made from Japanese seawater in Niigata prefecture. Optimal NaCl and Mg2+ concentrations for growth were 4.0–4.5 M and 5 mM, respectively. The isolate was a mesophilic and slightly alkaliphilic haloarchaeon, whose optimal growth temperature and pH were 37 °C and pH 8.0–9.0. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis suggested that strain YSM-123T is a member of the phylogenetic group defined by the family Halobacteriaceae, but there were low similarities to type strains of other genera of this family (≤90 %); for example, Halococcus (similarity Halostagnicola (Natronolimnobius (Halobiforma (Haloterrigena (Halovivax (Natrialba (Natronobacterium (Natronococcus (T should be placed in a new genus and species, Natronoarchaeum mannanilyticum gen. nov., sp. nov. The type strain of Natronoarchaeum mannanilyticum is strain YSM-123T (=JCM 16328T =CECT 7565T).

Two novel species were isolated from the sediment adjacent to sperm whale carcasses off Kagoshima, Japan, at a depth of about 230 m. The isolated strains, JAMM 1866(T), JAMM 1548 and JAMM 1525(T), were Gram-negative, rod-shaped, non-spore-forming and motile by means of a single polar or bipolar flagellum. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences of strains JAMM 1866(T) and JAMM 1548 indicated a relationship to the symbiotic bacterial clone R21 of Osedax japonicus (100 % sequence similarity) and all three isolates were closely related to Amphritea atlantica (97.7-97.8 % similarity) within the class Gammaproteobacteria. The novel isolates were able to produce isoprenoid quinone Q-8 as the major component. The predominant fatty acids were C(16 : 0), C(16 : 1) and C(18 : 1), with C(12 : 1) 3-OH present in smaller amounts. The DNA G+C contents of the three isolated strains were about 47 mol%. Based on differences in taxonomic characteristics, the three isolated strains represent two novel species of the genus Amphritea for which the names Amphritea japonica sp. nov. (type strain JAMM 1866(T)=JCM 14782(T)=ATCC BAA-1530(T); reference strain JAMM 1548) and Amphritea balenae sp. nov. (type strain JAMM 1525(T)=JCM 14781(T)=ATCC BAA-1529(T)) are proposed.

A high-alkaline, salt-activated alginate lyase is produced by Agarivorans sp. JAM-A1m from a deep-sea sediment off Cape Nomamisaki on Kyushu Island, Japan. Purified to homogeneity, as judged by SDS-PAGE, the enzyme (A1m) had a molecular mass of approximately 31 kDa. The optimal pH was around 10 in glycine-NaOH buffer, and the activity was increased to 1.8 times by adding 0.2 M NaCl. However, when the optimal pH in the presence of 0.2 M NaCl was shifted to pH 9.0, the activity was more than 10 times compared with that at pH 9 in the absence of NaCl. A1m showed the optimal temperature at around 30 degrees C and was stable to incubation between pH 6 and 9. The enzyme degraded favorably mannuronate-guluronate and guluronate-rich fragments in alginate. Shotgun cloning and sequencing of the gene for A1m revealed a 930-bp open reading frame, which encoded a mature enzyme of 289 amino acids (32,295 Da) belonging to polysaccharide lyase family 7. The deduced amino acid sequence showed the highest similarity to that of a Klebsiella enzyme, with only 54% identity.

Four novel species of psychrotrophic bacteria were isolated from sediment adjacent to sperm whale carcasses off Kagoshima, Japan, at a depth of 228-250 m. Cells of the five isolated strains, JAMM 0394(T), JAMM 0404(T), JAMM 0415(T), JAMM 0700 and JAMM 0738(T), were Gram-negative, rod-shaped, non-sporulating and motile by means of a single polar flagellum. The novel strains were able to produce isoprenoid quinone Q-8 as the major component. The predominant fatty acids were C(16 : 0) and C(16 : 1). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that the novel strains represent a separate lineage within the genus Psychromonas. The G+C contents of the novel strains were 38.8-42.8 mol%. DNA-DNA hybridization values between these strains and reference strains of the genus Psychromonas were significantly lower than that generally accepted as the threshold for the phylogenetic definition of species. The names Psychromonas japonica sp. nov. (type strain JAMM 0394(T)=JCM 14783(T)=ATCC BAA-1525(T)), Psychromonas aquimarina sp. nov. (type strain JAMM 0404(T)=JCM 14784(T)=ATCC BAA-1526(T)), Psychromonas macrocephali sp. nov. (two strains, type strain JAMM 0415(T)=JCM 14785(T)=ATCC BAA-1527(T)) and Psychromonas ossibalaenae sp. nov. (type strain JAMM 0738(T)=JCM 14786(T)=ATCC BAA-1528(T)) are proposed.

Nine agar-degrading strains, designated JAMB A3T, JAMB A7, JAMB A24, JAMB A33, JAMB A94T, JAMM 0654, JAMM 0793, JAMM 1327 and JAMM 1340, were isolated from deep-sea sediment in Suruga Bay and Sagami Bay and off Kagoshima, Japan. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, the strains were found to be closely affiliated with members of the genera Microbulbifer and Thalassomonas. The hybridization values for DNA-DNA relatedness between two of these strains and Microbulbifer reference strains were significantly lower than that accepted as the phylogenetic definition of a species. On the basis of their distinct taxonomic characteristics, six of the isolated strains represent two novel species of the genus Microbulbifer, for which the names Microbulbifer agarilyticus sp. nov. (type strain JAMB A3T =JCM 14708T =DSM 19200T) and Microbulbifer thermotolerans sp. nov. (type strain JAMB A94T =JCM 14709T =DSM 19189T) are proposed.

A novel thermophilic, sulfur-reducing chemolithoautotroph, strain ABI70S6(T), was isolated from a deep-sea hydrothermal field at the Yonaguni Knoll IV, Southern Okinawa Trough. Cells of strain ABI70S6(T) were motile rods, 0.9-2.0 microm in length and 0.4-0.8 microm in width. Strain ABI70S6(T) was an obligately anaerobic chemolithotroph, exhibiting hydrogen oxidation coupled with sulfur reduction. Growth was observed at 55-78 degrees C (optimum, 70 degrees C), pH 5.0-7.5 (optimum, pH 5.5-6.0) and 0.5-4.5 % NaCl (optimum, 3.0 % NaCl). H(2) and elemental sulfur were utilized as electron donor and acceptor, respectively. The major fatty acids were C(16 : 0) (40.0 %) and C(20 : 1) (60.0 %). The G+C content of genomic DNA was 44.2 mol%. The physiological attributes of strain ABI70S6(T) are similar to those of species of genera within the family Desulfurobacteriaceae, most of which are thermophilic and chemolithoautotrophic sulfur reducers. However, 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities between the novel isolate and type strains of all species within the family Desulfurobacteriaceae were87 %, which is close to the similarities found between the novel isolate and members of the family Thermodesulfobacteriaceae (85 %). Based on physiological and phylogenetic features of the novel isolate, it is proposed that it represents a novel species in a novel genus, Thermosulfidibacter takaii gen. nov., sp. nov., within the phylum Aquificae. The type strain of T. takaii is ABI70S6(T) (=JCM 13301(T)=DSM 17441(T)).

A novel extremely thermophilic sulfur-oxidizing bacterium, strain LS12-2(T), was isolated from a deep-sea hydrothermal field at the Yonaguni Knoll IV, Southern Okinawa Trough. Cells of strain LS12-2(T) were motile rods, 1.5-4.0 microm in length and 0.4-0.5 microm in width. Strain LS12-2(T) was an obligate chemolithoautotroph that could utilize elemental sulfur or thiosulfate as an electron donor and nitrate or oxygen as an electron acceptor. Growth was observed at 65-85 degrees C (optimum 70-75 degrees C), pH 5.8-8.3 (optimum pH 6.9-7.5), 1.0-4.0 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum 2.5 %) and 1.0-7.0 % O(2) in the gas phase (optimum 3.0 %). Fatty acids detected were C(16 : 0) (8.0 %), C(18 : 0) (9.0 %), C(18 : 1) (62.5 %) and C(20 : 1) (20.5 %). The genomic DNA G+C content was 51.3 mol%. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that strain LS12-2(T) belonged to the genus Hydrogenivirga. Based on physiological and phylogenetic characteristics of the isolate, it is proposed that this strain represents a novel species in the genus Hydrogenivirga, Hydrogenivirga okinawensis sp. nov. The type strain of Hydrogenivirga okinawensis is LS12-2(T) (=JCM 13302(T)=DSM 17378(T)).

A psychrotolerant, obligately alkaliphilic, collagenolytic enzyme-producing bacterium, strain AC40T, was isolated from a deep-sea sediment off Torishima Island, Japan, at a depth of 4026 m. Phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that this bacterium was closely related to members of the genus Alkalimonas, with highest sequence similarity (97.9 %) to Alkalimonas delamerensis 1E1T. DNA–DNA hybridization experiments of strain AC40T with A. delamerensis 1E1T revealed a level of relatedness of less than 30 %. Cells of strain AC40T were strictly aerobic, rod-shaped, Gram-negative and motile by means of a single polar flagellum. The organism grew over a range of temperatures from 5 to 37 °C and at initial pH values between 7.0 and 10.5. Optimal growth was observed at 33 °C and at pH 8.5–10.0. Cellular fatty acids of strain AC40T were predominantly saturated and mono-unsaturated straight-chain components (C16 : 0 and C18 : 1). The major isoprenoid quinone was Q-8. The G+C content of the DNA was 49.3 mol%. Phylogenetic characteristics, physiological properties and DNA–DNA hybridization data indicate that strain AC40T represents a novel species of the genus Alkalimonas, for which the name Alkalimonas collagenimarina sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is AC40T (=JCM 14267T=NCIMB 14266T).

本研究は, がん性疼痛マネジメントにおける患者の主体性と医療者の役割遂行について,「痛み計」の使用頻度をもとに, その効果を検討した. オピオイド使用中のがん患者10名は2週間, 随時「痛み計」に主観的な疼痛の強さを記録し, そのデータをグラフ化して患者と医療スタッフが共有した. その後, 患者と家族, 医療スタッフに質問紙調査を行った. その結果, 1日の入力回数の中央値は4.5回で, 質問項目の「入力しようと思った時は毎回入力した」「グラフを見た頻度」「グラフをもとに医師と話し合った」「他の患者にも勧めたい」「治療に参加しているという実感がある」と相関した. また, 医療スタッフは入力回数が多い患者に対し, 「痛み計のデータは疼痛アセスメトに役立った」「疼痛コントロールに関する患者の満足度は向上した」を高く評価した. 以上, がん性疼痛マネジメントを促進する痛み計の効果が示唆された. Palliat Care Res 2007;2(2):223-230

Novel thermophilic bacteria, designated strains VW1 and MM1T, were isolated from hydrothermal fluid and microbial mat samples, respectively, collected from a shallow marine hydrothermal system (water depth 22 m) occurring in coral reefs off Taketomi Island, Okinawa, Japan. Cells of the two novel strains were motile rods with a single polar flagellum in the exponential growth phase. In a medium that included elemental sulfur, cells of the two strains became non-motile with oval to spherical cell shapes. For both strains, growth occurred at between 30 and 60 °C (optimum temperature of 50–55 °C; 60–80 min doubling time) and between pH 5.5 and 7.1 (optimum pH 6.0). The isolates were microaerobic chemolithoautotrophs capable of using thiosulfate or tetrathionate as the sole energy source, O2 as the sole electron acceptor and CO2 as the sole carbon source. Organic substrates, such as yeast extract and tryptone, inhibited growth of both strains. The G+C contents of genomic DNA were 51.3 and 49.5 mol% for strains VW1 and MM1T, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that the two strains were closely related to each other (99.9 % sequence similarity) and were distantly related to other previously described genera within the Gammaproteobacteria. The novel isolates could also be differentiated from other gammaproteobacterial genera on the basis of their physiological properties. It is suggested that the novel isolates represent the type species of a new genus, for which the name Sulfurivirga caldicuralii gen. nov., sp. nov. (type strain MM1T=JCM 13439T=DSM 17737T) is proposed.

Six strains representing three novel species were isolated from deep-sea sediment in Suruga Bay, Japan, at a depth of 2406–2409 m. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, the isolated strains, c931T, c941T, d943, c952, d954 and c959T, are closely affiliated with members of the genus Shewanella. The hybridization values for DNA–DNA relatedness between these strains and Shewanella reference strains were significantly lower than that which is accepted as the phylogenetic definition of a species. On the basis of their distinct taxonomic characteristics, the isolated strains represent three novel Shewanella species, for which the names Shewanella kaireitica sp. nov. (three strains, type strain c931T=JCM 11836T=DSM 17170T), Shewanella abyssi sp. nov. (two strains, type strain c941T=JCM 13041T=DSM 17171T) and Shewanella surugensis sp. nov. (type strain c959T=JCM 11835T=DSM 17177T) are proposed.

本研究の目的は, 患者が簡便な操作で随時, 主観的な痛みの強さを記録できる「痛み計」を開発し, 臨床における有用性を確認することである. 「痛み計」(23cm x 6cm x 2cm,160g)は, 0-10 Numeric Rating Scale (NRS)を採用した11個の押しボタンを有し, 患者が疼痛に相当する数値のボタンを押すとその数値と日時を記憶する. 「痛み計」をパソコンに接続すると, 痛みの強さをグラフとして印刷できる. 研究方法は事例検討である. 大学病院に入院中でがん性疼痛のある患者1例に14日間, 痛み計の使用を依頼した. 印刷したグラフは患者と医療スタッフに渡した. その結果, 以下の点が示唆された. 1.0-10NRSを用いたことにより, 患者は痛みを円滑に表現できた. 2.操作を簡便にしたことにより, 患者は随時, 入力できた. 3.1日の痛みの推移をグラフで出力したことは, 疼痛アセスメントに有効であった.

An agar-degrading Thalassomonas bacterium, strain JAMB-A33, was isolated from the sediment off Noma Point, Japan, at a depth of 230 m. A novel alpha-agarase from the isolate was purified to homogeneity from cultures containing agar as a carbon source. The molecular mass of the purified enzyme, designated as agaraseA33, was 85 kDa on both SDS-PAGE and gel-filtration chromatography, suggesting that it is a monomer. The optimal pH and temperature for activity were about 8.5 and 45 degrees C, respectively. The enzyme had a specific activity of 40.7 U/mg protein. The pattern of agarose hydrolysis showed that the enzyme is an endo-type alpha-agarase, and the final main product was agarotetraose. The enzyme degraded not only agarose but also agarohexaose, neoagarohexaose, and porphyran.

Novel alkaliphilic, mesophilic bacteria were isolated from subseafloor alkaline serpentine mud from the Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) Hole 1200D at a serpentine mud volcano, South Chamorro Seamount in the Mariana Forearc. The cells of type strain ODP1200D-1.5T were motile rods with a single polar flagellum. Growth was observed between 10 and 45-50 degrees C (optimum temperature: 30-35 degrees C, 45-min doubling time), between pH 6.5 and 10.8-11.4 (optimum: pH 8.5-9.0), and between NaCl concentrations of 0 and 21% (w/v) (optimum NaCl concentration: 2.5-3.5%). The isolate was a facultatively anaerobic heterotroph utilizing various complex substrates, hydrocarbons, carbohydrates, organic acids, and amino acids. Nitrate or fumarate could serve as an electron acceptor to support growth under anaerobic conditions. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 57.5 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that the isolate belonged to the genus Marinobacter and was the most closely related to M. aquaeolei strain VT8T and M. hydrocarbonoclasticus strain SP.17T, while DNA-DNA hybridization demonstrated that the new isolate could be genetically differentiated from the previously described species of Marinobacter. Based on the physiological and molecular properties of the new isolate, we propose the name Marinobacter alkaliphilus sp. nov., type strain: ODP1200D-1.5T (JCM12291T and ATCC BAA-889T).

An anaerobic, psychrophilic bacterium, strain MO-SPC2T, was isolated from a methanogenic microbial community in a continuous-flow bioreactor that was established from subseafloor sediments collected from off the Shimokita Peninsula of Japan in the north-western Pacific Ocean. Cells were pleomorphic: spherical, annular, curved rod, helical and coccoid cell morphologies were observed. Motility only occurred in helical cells. Strain MO-SPC2T grew at 0–17 °C (optimally at 9 °C), at pH 6.0–8.0 (optimally at pH 6.8–7.2) and in 20–40 g NaCl l−1 (optimally at 20–30 NaCl l−1). The strain grew chemo-organotrophically with mono-, di- and polysaccharides. The major end products of glucose fermentation were acetate, ethanol, hydrogen and carbon dioxide. The abundant polar lipids of strain MO-SPC2T were phosphatidylglycolipids, phospholipids and glycolipids. The major cellular fatty acids were C14 : 0, C16 : 0 and C16 : 1ω9. Isoprenoid quinones were not detected. The G+C content of the DNA was 32.3 mol%. 16S rRNA gene-based phylogenetic analysis showed that strain MO-SPC2T was affiliated with the genus Sphaerochaeta within the phylum Spirochaetes , and its closest relatives were Sphaerochaeta pleomorpha GrapesT (88.4 % sequence identity), Sphaerochaeta globosa BuddyT (86.7 %) and Sphaerochaeta coccoides SPN1T (85.4 %). Based on phenotypic characteristics and phylogenetic traits, strain MO-SPC2T is considered to represent a novel species of the genus Sphaerochaeta , for which the name Sphaerochaeta multiformis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is MO-SPC2T ( = JCM 17281T = DSM 23952T). An emended description of the genus Sphaerochaeta is also proposed.

A novel methane-oxidizing bacterium, strain IT-9T, was isolated from a shallow submarine hydrothermal system occurring in a coral reef in Japan. Strain IT-9T was a Gram-negative, aerobic, motile, coccoid or oval-shaped bacterium with the distinctive intracytoplasmic membrane arrangement of a type I methanotroph. Strain IT-9T was a moderately thermophilic, obligate methanotroph that grew on methane and methanol at 30–55 °C (optimum 45–50 °C). The strain possessed the particulate methane monooxygenase (pMMO). The ribulose monophosphate pathway was operative for carbon assimilation. NaCl was required for growth within a concentration range of 1–5 % (optimum 3 %). The hao gene encoding hydroxylamine oxidoreductase (HAO) involved in nitrification was detected by a PCR experiment. The major phospholipid fatty acids were C16 : 0 and C18 : 1ω7c. The major isoprenoid quinone was Q-8. The DNA G+C content was 66.0 mol%. The 16S rRNA gene sequence of strain IT-9T was only moderately related to the sequences of members of the closest genera Methylohalobius (94.1 % similarity) and Methylothermus (91.7–91.9 % similarity); however, those sequences formed a deeply branching monophyletic group within the order Methylococcales . Phylogenies based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, deduced partial PmoA sequences and deduced partial Hao sequences and physiological and chemotaxonomic characteristics revealed that strain IT-9T represents a novel species of a new genus, for which the name Methylomarinovum caldicuralii gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Methylomarinovum caldicuralii is IT-9T ( = JCM 13666T = DSM 19749T). In addition, we propose a new family, Methylothermaceae fam. nov., in the order Methylococcales , to accommodate the genera Methylothermus , Methylohalobius and Methylomarinovum. The genera Methylothermus and Methylohalobius have been recognized as being distinct from other genera in the methane-oxidizing order Methylococcales in the class Gammaproteobacteria . These genera form a distinctive monophyletic lineage within the order on the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence phylogeny. This seems consistent with their distinctive physiological traits; the genus Methylothermus includes the most thermophilic species, and the genus Methylohalobius includes the most halophilic species, within the order. Although these two genera include only three species at the time of writing, similar sequences of 16S rRNA genes and pmoA genes encoding pMMO have been detected in a geothermal area or deep-sea hydrothermal vent fields by studies using culture-independent techniques. This suggests that unknown methanotrophs of this lineage inhabit various extreme environments.

A polyvinyl-alcohol-degrading marine bacterium was isolated from plastic rope litter found in Tokyo Bay, Japan. The isolated strain, Zumi 95T, was a Gram-reaction-negative, non-spore-forming and facultatively anaerobic chemo-organotroph. The major respiratory quinone was Q-10. The predominant fatty acids were C18 : 1ω7c and C16 : 0. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, the isolated strain was closely affiliated with members of the genus Thalassospira in the class Alphaproteobacteria . The DNA G+C content of the novel strain was 55.1 mol%. The hybridization values for DNA–DNA relatedness between this strain and four reference strains representing species of the genus Thalassospira were significantly lower than that accepted as the phylogenetic definition of a species. On the basis of differences in taxonomic characteristics, the isolated strain represents a novel species of the genus Thalassospira for which the name Thalassospira povalilytica sp. nov. (type strain Zumi 95T = JCM 18746T = DSM 26719T) is proposed.

A novel, anaerobic filamentous bacterium, strain MO-CFX1T, was isolated from a methanogenic community, which was originally established from subseafloor sediments collected from off the Shimokita Peninsula, Japan. Cells were non-spore-forming, non-motile, Gram-stain-negative and filamentous. The filaments were longer than 10 µm and 130–150 nm in width. Growth of the strain was observed at 10–37 °C (optimum 25–30 °C), at pH 5.5–8.5 (optimum pH 7.0) and in 0–50 g NaCl l−1(optimum 15 g NaCl l−1). The strain was able to grow with a number of carbohydrates in the presence of yeast extract. The major cellular fatty acids were monounsaturated C18 : 1ω9, C16 : 1ω7 and saturated C18 : 0and C16 : 0. The intact polar lipids of the strain were dominated by diacylglyceride and sphingolipid core lipid structures with monoglycosidic, mixed phosphomonoglycosidic and fatty-acid-modified monoglycosidic polar head groups. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 52.4 mol%. Based on the comparative 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, strain MO-CFX1Twas affiliated with the classAnaerolineaewithin the phylumChloroflexiand was most closely related toLeptolinea tardivitalisYMTK-2T(sequence identity of 91.0 %). Based on phenotypic and genetic properties of the novel isolate, we propose a novel species representing a new genusPelolinea submarinagen. nov., sp. nov., for strain MO-CFX1T( = JCM 17238T, = KCTC 5975T). This is the first formal description, to our knowledge, of an isolate of the phylumChloroflexifrom the deep-sea sedimentary environment.

Aim To investigate the factors influenced the efficacy of tolvaptan (TLV) in liver cirrhosis. Methods We retrospectively enrolled 61 consecutive patients with refractory hepatic ascites. All of them had been treated with furosemide and spironolactone before admission, and treated with TLV for 7 d in our hospital. The effect of TLV was defined by the rate of body weight loss, and the factors that influenced TLV efficacy were analyzed using multiple regression. Results Coexistent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was the only significant predictive variable that attenuated the efficacy of TLV. In stratified analysis, high doses of furosemide decreased the efficacy of TLV in patients with HCC, and increased efficacy in those without HCC. In the latter, a high Child-Pugh-Turcotte score had a positive influence and a high concentration of lactate dehydrogenase had a negative influence on the effectiveness of TLV. Conclusion Development of ascites may differ between patients with liver failure and those with HCC progression. A sufficient preceding dose of furosemide decreases diuretic effect of TLV.

Immunoglobulin light chain-associated (AL) amyloidosis is a multisystemic disorder characterized by extracellular deposition of immunoglobulin light chain produced by a proliferative plasma cell clone. Although the liver is the major organ involved in AL amyloidosis, hepatic involvement is often clinically asymptomatic and severe intrahepatic cholestasis as the primary manifestation of the disease is rare. A 60-year-old man with severe jaundice, massive ascites and highly elevated alkaline phosphatase was diagnosed with AL amyloidosis by a transjugular liver biopsy. He had undergone a yearly medical check that showed no abnormalities except for mild elevation of serum γ-glutamyltransferase at 1 year before admission. Owing to his poor condition and rapidly progressive liver and renal dysfunction, neither stem cell transplantation nor a combination of chemotherapeutic agents could be applied, and he died 1.5 months after admission. An autopsy revealed amyloid deposition in the systemic organs, and there was no evidence of multiple myeloma. Continuous elevation of γ-glutamyltransferase may be a useful marker for early diagnosis of fatal hepatic amyloidosis.

A Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, heterotrophic and salt-tolerant bacterium, designated strain LL-001T, was isolated from a deep subseafloor sediment in Japanese waters. Cells were non-motile rods and colonies were smooth, convex, circular and vermilion. The conditions for growth were 15–35 °C, pH 5.5–7.5 and 1–8 % (w/v) NaCl. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences confirmed that strain LL-001T belonged to the genus Loktanella within the family Rhodobacteraceae of the class Alphaproteobacteria . 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity between strain LL-001T and members of the genus Loktanella was 94.5–98.5 %; the highest sequence similarity was with Loktanella hongkongensis UST950701-009PT. DNA–DNA relatedness between strain LL-001T and L. hongkongensis UST950701-009PT was 41.5–43.6 %. The DNA G+C content of strain LL-001T was 69.3 mol%. On the basis of biochemical features and 16S rRNA gene sequence comparison, strain LL-001T is considered to represent a novel species of the genus Loktanella , for which the name Loktanella cinnabarina sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is LL-001T ( = JCM 18161T = CECT 8072T). The description of the genus Loktanella is also emended.

Two aerobic methane-oxidizing bacterial strains were isolated from distinct marine environments in Japan. Strains IT-4T and T2-1 were Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, motile, plump short rods or oval-shaped bacteria with a single polar flagellum and type I intracytoplasmic membranes. They were obligate methanotrophs that grew only on methane or methanol. Each strain possessed the particulate methane monooxygenase (pMMO). The ribulose monophosphate pathway was operative for carbon assimilation. The strains grew best at 37 °C, and did not grow at 45 °C. NaCl was required for growth within a concentration range of 1–8 % (w/v). The major phospholipid fatty acids were C16 : 0, C16 : 1ω7c, and C16 : 1ω5t. The major isoprenoid quinone was MQ-8. The DNA G+C content was 50.9–51.7 mol%. The 16S rRNA gene sequences of the strains showed 99.4 % similarity to each other, and DNA–DNA hybridization analysis indicated that the strains were representatives of the same species. The 16S rRNA gene sequences were highly similar to some marine environmental sequences (94.0–97.7 % similarity), but did not show similarities more than 94 % with sequences of members of other related genera, such as Methylomicrobium , Methylobacter , Methylomonas and Methylosarcina . Phylogenies based on 16S rRNA gene sequences and deduced partial PmoA sequences, and the physiological and chemotaxonomic characteristics revealed that strains IT-4T and T2-1 represent a novel species of a new genus in the family Methylococcaceae , for which the name Methylomarinum vadi gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is IT-4T ( = JCM 13665T = DSM 18976T).