Search

The 13 C CP/MAS NMR spectra of isotactic, syndiotactic and atactic poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) gels were measured in order to clarify the structure of the immobile component of PVA gel. In the 13 C CP/MAS NMR spectra, the three CH carbon peaks I, II and III (at about 77, 71 and 65 ppm) were clearly observed, which originate from the formation of strong intermolecular or intramolecular hydrogen bonds between hydroxyl groups like solid PVA. It has been assigned that these peaks originate from the crosslinked region in the gel state. On the basis of the experimental results, intermolecular hydrogen bonds play an important role in the formation of the crosslinked-region in the gel state. Further, the effect of PVA's tacticity on the amount of the crosslinked regions by intermolecular interactions was discussed. In addition, molecular motion in the immobile and mobile region of PVA gel was discussed through the observation of 13 C spin-lattice relaxation time T 1 .

Neurons in the nucleus laminaris (NL) of birds detect the coincidence of binaural excitatory inputs from the nucleus magnocellularis (NM) on both sides and process the interaural time differences (ITDs) for sound localization. Sustained inhibition from the superior olivary nucleus is known to control the gain of coincidence detection, which allows the sensitivity of NL neurons to ITD tolerate strong-intensity sound. Here, we found a phasic inhibition in chicken brain slices that follows the ipsilateral NM inputs after a short time delay, sharpens coincidence detection, and may enhance ITD sensitivity in low-frequency NL neurons. GABA-positive small neurons are distributed in and near the NL. These neurons generate IPSCs in NL neurons when photoactivated by a caged glutamate compound, suggesting that these GABAergic neurons are interneurons that mediate phasic inhibition. These IPSCs have fast decay kinetics that is attributable to the α1-subunit of the GABAAreceptor, the expression of which dominates in the low-frequency region of the NL. Model simulations demonstrate that phasic IPSCs narrow the time window of coincidence detection and increase the contrast of ITD-tuning during low-level, low-frequency excitatory input. Furthermore, cooperation of the phasic and sustained inhibitions effectively increases the contrast of ITD-tuning over a wide range of excitatory input levels. We propose that the complementary interaction between phasic and sustained inhibitions is the neural mechanism that regulates ITD sensitivity for low-frequency sound in the NL.

Background context In vivo three-dimensional kinematics of the thoracic spine in trunk lateral bending with an intact rib cage and soft tissues has not been well documented. There is no quantitative data in the literature for lateral bending in consecutive thoracic spinal segments, and there has not been consensus on the patterns of coupled motion with lateral bending. Purpose To demonstrate segmental ranges of motion (ROMs) in lateral bending and coupled motions of the thoracic spine. Study design In vivo three-dimensional biomechanics study of the thoracic spine. Patient sample Fifteen healthy male volunteers. Outcome measures Computed analysis by using voxel-based registration. Methods Participants underwent computed tomography of the thoracic spine in three supine positions: neutral, right maximum lateral bending, and left maximum lateral bending. The relative motions of vertebrae were calculated by automatically superimposing an image of vertebrae in a neutral position over images in bending positions, using voxel-based registration. Mean values of lateral bending were compared among the upper (T1–T2 to T3–T4), the middle-upper (T4–T5 to T6–T7), the middle-lower (T7–T8 to T9–T10), and the lower (T10–T11 to T12–L1) parts of the spine. Results At lateral bending, the mean ROM (±standard deviation) of T1 with respect to L1 was 15.6°±6.3° for lateral bending and 6.2°±4.8° for coupled axial rotation in the same direction as lateral bending. The mean lateral bending of each spinal segment with respect to the inferior adjacent vertebra was 1.4°±1.3° at T1–T2, 1.3°±1.2° at T2–T3, 1.4°±1.3° at T3–T4, 0.9°±0.9° at T4–T5, 0.8°±1.0° at T5–T6, 1.1°±1.1° at T6–T7, 1.7°±1.2° at T7–T8, 1.3°±1.2° at T8–T9, 1.6°±0.7° at T9–T10, 1.8°±0.8° at T10–T11, 2.3°±1.0° at T11–T12, and 2.2°±0.8° at T12–L1. The smallest and the largest amounts of lateral bending were observed in the middle-upper and the lower parts, respectively. There was no significant difference in lateral bending between the upper and the middle-lower parts. Coupled axial rotation of each segment was generally observed in the same direction as lateral bending. However, high variability was found at the T2–T3 to T5–T6 segments. Coupled flexion was observed at the upper and middle parts, and coupled extension was observed at the lower part. Conclusions This study revealed in vivo three-dimensional motions of consecutive thoracic spinal segments in trunk lateral bending. The thoracolumbar segments significantly contributed to lateral bending. Coupled axial rotation generally occurred in the same direction with lateral bending. However, more variability was observed in the direction of coupled axial rotation at T2–T3 to T5–T6 segments in the supine position. These results are useful for understanding normal kinematics of the thoracic spine.

For epitaxial growth of various materials, high quality substrates are indispensable since in many cases, the quality of epitaxial layers largely depend on that of substrates. Japan Energy is a company who is leading the development of these substrates in the field of electronic materials.

We have isolated a novel inward rectifier K+ channel predominantly expressed in glial cells of the central nervous system. Its amino acid sequence exhibited 53% identity with ROMK1 and approximately 40% identity with other inward rectifier K+ channels. Xenopus oocytes injected with cRNA derived from this clone expressed a K+ current, which showed classical inward rectifier K+ channel characteristics. Intracellular Mg.ATP was required to sustain channel activity in excised membrane patches, which is consistent with a Walker type-A ATP-binding domain on this clone. We designate this new clone as KAB-2 (the second type of inward rectifying K+ channel with an ATP-binding domain). In situ hybridization showed KAB-2 mRNA to be expressed predominantly in glial cells of the cerebellum and forebrain. This is the first description of the cloning of a glial cell inward rectifier potassium channel, which may be responsible for K+ buffering action of glial cells in the brain.

In this study, dynamics of a fixed-pitch co-axial rotor unmanned helicopter is modeled, and fundamental motion analysis is performed using derived model. The unmanned helicopter is considered as a rigid body system consists of 2 rigid bodies, and multi-body dynamics modeling technique named velocity transformation method is used for deriving the equation of motion. Force and torque terms applied to the helicopter are obtained by using aerodynamics of co-axial rotors including aerodynamic interference between upper and lower rotor. Finally, the motion analysis using the model is performed to establish the relation between the motion and the mechanical specification of fixed-pitch co-axial rotor unmanned helicopter.

The uncovertebral joints are peculiar but clinically important anatomical structures of the cervical vertebrae. In the aged or degenerative cervical spine, osteophytes arising from an uncovertebral joint can cause cervical radiculopathy, often necessitating decompression surgery. Although these joints are believed to bear some relationship to head rotation, how the uncovertebral joints work during head rotation remains unclear. The purpose of this study is to elucidate 3D motion of the uncovertebral joints during head rotation.Study participants were 10 healthy volunteers who underwent 3D MRI of the cervical spine in 11 positions during head rotation: neutral (0°) and 15° increments to maximal head rotation on each side (left and right). Relative motions of the cervical spine were calculated by automatically superimposing a segmented 3D MR image of the vertebra in the neutral position over images of each position using the volume registration method. The 3D intervertebral motions of all 10 volunteers were standardized, and the 3D motion of uncovertebral joints was visualized on animations using data for the standardized motion. Inferred contact areas of uncovertebral joints were also calculated using a proximity mapping technique.The 3D animation of uncovertebral joints during head rotation showed that the joints alternate between contact and separation. Inferred contact areas of uncovertebral joints were situated directly lateral at the middle cervical spine and dorsolateral at the lower cervical spine. With increasing angle of rotation, inferred contact areas increased in the middle cervical spine, whereas areas in the lower cervical spine slightly decreased.In this study, the 3D motions of uncovertebral joints during head rotation were depicted precisely for the first time.

A new microbial metabolite, cytosporone S (1) was isolated from a fermentation broth of the fungus Trichoderma sp. FKI-6626. Its chemical structure was determined primarily by NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. Compound 1 showed antimicrobial activity against several Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungi.

Study Design. In vivo 3-dimensional (3D) study of the thoracic spine. Objective. To demonstrate axial rotations (ARs) and coupled motions of the thoracic spine. Summary of Background Data. In vivo 3D kinematics of the thoracic spine in trunk rotation with intact thorax and soft tissues has not been well-known. Summary of Background Data. There were no quantitative data of AR in the consecutive thoracic spinal segments. Patterns of coupled motion with AR have been controversial. Methods. Thirteen healthy volunteers underwent 3D computed tomography of the thoracic spine in 3 positions; neutral, right, and left maximum trunk rotation. Relative motions of vertebrae were calculated by automatically superimposing the vertebrae in a neutral position over images in rotational positions, using voxel-based registration. Motions were represented with 6 degrees of freedom by Euler angles and translations on the local coordinate system. Results. Mean (±SD) relative rotational angles of T1 with respect to L1 to 1 side were 24.9° ± 4.9° in maximum trunk rotation. AR of each thoracic segment with respect to the inferior adjacent vertebra to 1 side was 1.2° ± 0.8° at T1–T2, 1.6° ± 0.7° at T2–T3, 1.4° ± 0.9° at T3–T4, 1.6° ± 0.8° at T4–T5, 1.8° ± 0.7° at T5–T6, 1.9° ± 0.6° at T6–T7, 2.3° ± 0.7° at T7–T8, 2.5° ± 0.8° at T8–T9, 2.7° ± 0.6° at T9–T10, 2.6° ± 0.8° at T10–T11, 1.3° ± 0.7° at T11–T12, and 0.5° ± 0.4° at T12–L1. Significantly larger segmental AR was observed at the middle thoracic segments (T6–T11) than at the upper (T1–T6) and lower (T11–L1) segments. At the upper thoracic segments, coupled lateral bending with AR was observed in the same direction as AR. However, at the middle and lower thoracic segments, coupled lateral bending occurred both in the same and opposite directions. Conclusion. In vivo 3D ARs and coupled motions of the consecutive thoracic spinal segments in trunk rotation were investigated accurately for the first time.

We investigated the effect of clot activators carried over from the serum tube on major coagulation tests during phlebotomy. First, blood specimens from 30 normal subjects were mixed with small amounts of fluid containing clot activators, and their effects on various coagulation tests were determined. Only the value of fibrin monomer complex displayed a remarkable change when thrombin-containing fluid was added to the blood specimens. Subsequently, 100 paired blood specimens (taken from 75 healthy volunteers and 25 patients taking warfarin) were collected in coagulation tubes before and after the serum tube using standard phlebotomy procedures. Various coagulation tests were performed to determine the effect of contamination of thrombin-containing blood on coagulation parameters. Differences between the 2 tubes were minimal but significant for some of the coagulation tests. Therefore, we conclude that the effect of clot activators in the serum tube on coagulation tests is minimal when standard phlebotomy procedures are used.

Mechanisms by which immunodepressants (Cyclosporine, CsA; FK 506, FK; Azanthioprine, AZA) ameliorate warm ischemic injury of the liver were examined. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to 60-min of normothermic liver ischemia. Animals were assigned to one of four groups: group I, control with vehicle treatment; groups II, III, and IV, treatment with CsA (10 mg/kg), FK (1 mg/kg), and AZA (1 mg/kg), respectively. The immunosuppressive agents were given per os for 4 consecutive days prior to the induction of hepatic ischemia. In addition to a survival study, plasma levels of endotoxin, serum activities of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF), plasma levels of phosphatidylcholine hydroperoxide (PCOOH) as a lipid peroxide, and serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were investigated in blood samples collected from the suprahepatic vena cava. A 7-day survival period was significantly higher in the immunosuppressed animals. Serum TNF levels were elevated and peaked at 3 h following reperfusion. When, the peak values were compared, the animals given immunodepressants had significantly lower levels of TNF (217.0 +/- 40.6 pg/ml for group I, 67.6 +/- 13.7 for group II, 87.9 +/- 28.3 for group III and 89.1 +/- 19.9 for group IV; Mean +/- SEM). Plasma PCOOH levels were also elevated following reperfusion, but with no statistical difference among the groups. Our data suggest that immunodepressants ameliorate warm ischemia/reperfusion injury through modulation of TNF production and not through a diminution of lipid peroxidative injury.

We examined the hepatoprotective effect of a prostaglandin (PG)I2 analogue by analyzing the endogenous release of prostanoid from the pig liver. Fourteen female pigs underwent 1 hr complete hepatic vascular exclusion (HVE); the portal and vena caval circulation was actively decompressed. The animals were divided into one of two groups (n = 7, each) according to pretreatment with the prostacyclin analogue (OP 2507, OP) administered via a mesenteric vein branch for 30 min at a rate of 2 micrograms/kg/min immediately prior to HVE. The plasma levels of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), 6-keto-prostaglandin F1-alpha (6-keto-PGF1 alpha), and thromboxane B2 (TXB2), from the blood samples from the aorta, the hepatic vein, and the portal vein were serially compared for 60 min after the restoration of blood flow. Other parameters included 7-day survival rate, serum biochemistry, and endotoxin assay. A significant improvement in 7-day survival rate (6/7 vs. 1/7 for the control, P < 0.02) was observed in the OP-treated animals, associated with amelioration of serum transaminase activities but with no differences in plasma endotoxin levels. The reperfused liver progressively and substantially released PGE2 but did not generate other prostanoids (TXB2 and 6-keto-PGF1 alpha). OP pretherapy substantially suppressed hepatic generation of the PGE2 postreflow, correlating with serum transaminase levels (rs = 0.80; P < 0.01, at 60 min). We conclude that the PGI2 analogue ameliorates hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury by down-regulating PGE2 production from the reperfused liver.

Vast majority of hiatal hernias of the esophagus are sliding type, and other types are rarely encountered. This paper presents an extremely rare case of hiatal hernia of the esophagus with prolapsed gastric vestibule associating with gastric volvulus. An 81-year-old woman was seen at the hospital because of shortness of breath on excercise. She had evacuated tarry stool. Anemia was noted. Upper gastrointestinal series revealed a paraesophageal type hiatal hernia in which a portion from the body to vestibule of the stomach was axially twisted by 180 degree to prolapse, and an associated sliding hernia. A possible risk of acute strangulation was considered and the patient was operated on by Nissen procedure. Intraoperative findings included that gastric volvulus and paraesophageal hernia were repositioned and only the sliding hernia still existed. It was inferred that the repositioning might be attributed to general anesthesia. Postoperative course was uneventful. Any recurrence of hernia has not been found.

Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) is a progressive disease that causes cervical myelopathy. Because 2D evaluation of ossification growth with plain lateral radiographs has limitations, the authors developed a unique technique to measure ossification progression and volume increase by using multidetector CT scanning.The authors used serial thin-slice volume data obtained by multidetector CT scanning in 5 patients. The mean patient age was 63 years, and the mean follow-up duration was 3.1 years. First, a 3D model of OPLL was semiautomatically segmented at a specific threshold. Then, a preoperative model of OPLL was superimposed on a postoperative model using voxel-based registration of the vertebral bodies. Progression and volume increase were measured using a digital viewer that was developed by the authors. Progression was visualized using a color-coded contour on the surface of the OPLL model.All patients had progression of 0.5 mm or greater. The mean values concerning OPLL growth were as follows: maximum progression length, 4.7 mm; progression rate, 1.5 mm/year; volume increase, 1622 mm(3); volume expansion rate, 37%; and volume increase rate, 484 mm(3)/year. The accuracy of superimposition by voxel-based registration, defined as closeness to the true value, was less than 0.31 mm. For intraobserver reproducibility of the volume measurement, the mean intraclass correlation coefficient, root mean square error, and coefficient of variation were 0.987, 16.0 mm(3), and 1.7%, respectively.Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament progresses even after surgery. Three-dimensional evaluation with the aid of CT scans is a useful and reliable method for assessing that growth.

Four 1,6-anhydro-β-D-galactopyranoses having benzoyl derivatives in position 2 and benzyl derivatives in positions 3 and 4 were synthesized and polymerized. (1→6)-β-D-Galactopyranan oligosaccharide derivatives (DPn

With the completion of the determination of its entire genome sequence, one of the next major targets of Bacillus subtilis genomics is to clarify the whole gene regulatory network. To this end, the results of systematic experiments should be compared with the rich source of individual experimental results accumulated so far. Thus, we constructed a database of the upstream regulatory information of B.subtilis (DBTBS). The current version was constructed by surveying 291 references and contains information on 90 binding factors and 403 promoters. For each promoter, all of its known cis-elements are listed according to their positions, while these cis-elements are aligned to illustrate their consensus sequence for each transcription factor. All probable transcription factors coded in the genome were classified with the Pfam motifs. Using this database, we compared the character of B.subtilis promoters with that of Escherichia coli promoters. Our database is accessible at http://elmo.ims.u-tokyo.ac.jp/dbtbs/.

Previously we identified aminooxy compounds as auxin biosynthesis inhibitors. One of the compounds, aminooxyacetic acid (AOA) inhibited indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) biosynthesis in rice and tomato. Here, we found that AOA induced auxin over-accumulation in Arabidopsis. The results suggest that auxin-related metabolic pathways are divergent among these plant species.

Porcine liver esterase (PLE)- or rabbit liver esterase (RLE)-catalyzed hydrolysis of the pro-S ester group of diethyl α-alkyl-α-(benzyloxycarbonylamino)malonates 2a-c afforded (R)-ethyl α-alkyl-α-(benzyloxycarbonylamino)malonates 3a-c each in excellent enatiomeric excess. Enantiodivergent reductions of these acid esters 3a-c readily furnished both the corresponding enantiomeric α-substituted serines (R)- and (S)- 5a-c .

Diastereoselective aldol-type reactions of ethyl (5 S )-3,6-diethoxy-2,5-dihydro-5-isopropyl-2-pyrazinecarboxylate (5 S )- 3 with achiral aldehydes 8a – d was investigated by using Sn(OSO 2 CF 3 ) 2 – N -ethylpiperizine and MgBr 2 –triethylamine. The reaction with Sn(II) between (5 S )- 3 and aliphatic aldehydes 8a , b proved to be quite different from that with Mg(II). On the other hand, Sn(II)- or Mg(II)-mediated aldol-type reactions of (5 S )- 3 with benzaldehyde 8c and 3-methyl-2-butenal 8d each afforded the same diastereomer as the major product. These aldol products were each converted to the corresponding α-substituted serines 6 and 7 as enantiomerically pure compounds.

Diastereoselective alkylation of ethyl (5 S )-3,6-diethoxy-2,5-dihydro-5-isopropyl-2-pyrazinecarboxylate (5 S )- 3 with alkyl halides was investigated by using NaH and n -BuLi. These alkylated products (2 R ,5 S )- 4b – d were converted to the corresponding α-alkylated serines ( S )- 6b – d .

The enantioselective aldol-type reaction of ethyl 3,6-diethoxy-2,5-dihydro-2-pyrazinecarboxylate ( 1 ) with achiral aldehydes 2a-d was investigated by employing Sn(OSO 2 CF 3 ) 2 -triethylamine in the presence of (−)-sparteine. Not only a stoichiometric amount, but also 0.3 mol equiv. of (−)-sparteine promoted the highly enantioselective aldol-type reaction.

Despite its importance in plant growth and development, the auxin biosynthetic pathway has remained elusive. In this study, we analyzed hormone series transcriptome data from AtGenExpress in Arabidopsis and found that aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG) had the strongest anti-auxin activity. We also identified other effective compounds such as L-amino-oxyphenylpropionic acid (AOPP) through additional screening. These inhibitors shared characteristics in that they inhibited pyridoxal enzymes and/or aminotransferases. They reduced endogenous IAA levels in both monocots and dicots. L-AOPP inhibited root development of Arabidopsis in main root elongation, gravitropism, root skewing and root hair formation. This inhibition was generally recovered after exogenous IAA treatment, and the recovery was almost completely to the level of non-inhibited seedlings. The compounds inhibited conversion from tryptophan to indole-3-pyruvic acid in enzyme extracts from Arabidopsis and wheat. Our data collectively suggest that the inhibitors directly blocked auxin biosynthesis, and that the major target site was tryptophan aminotransferase. This enzyme probably makes up one of the major biosynthesis pathways conserved among higher plants. Each inhibitor, however, demonstrated a different action spectrum in shoot and root of rice and tomato, indicating diversity in biosynthesis pathways between organs and species. Our results provide novel insights into auxin biosynthesis and action, and uncover structural characteristics of auxin biosynthesis inhibitors.

We here report the existence of 6 additional isoforms of the NMDA receptor generated via alternative splicing by molecular analysis of cDNA clones isolated from a rat forebrain cDNA library. These isoforms possess the structures with an insertion at the extracellular amino-terminal region or deletions at two different extracellular carboxyl-terminal regions, or those formed by combinations of the above insertion and deletions. One of the deletions results in the generation of a new carboxyl-terminal sequence. All these isoforms possess the ability to induce electrophysiological responses to NMDA and respond to various antagonists selective to the NMDA receptor in the Xenopus oocyte expression system. In addition, a truncated form of the NMDA receptor also exists that contains only the extreme amino-terminal sequence of this protein molecule. These data indicate that the NMDA receptor consists of heterogeneous molecules that differ in the extracellular sequence of the amino- and carboxyl-terminal regions.

Three cDNA clones, mGluR2, mGluR3, and mGluR4, were isolated from a rat brain cDNA library by cross-hybridization with the cDNA for a metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR1). The cloned receptors show considerable sequence similarity with mGluR1 and possess a large extracellular domain preceding the seven putative membrane-spanning segments. mGluR2 is expressed in some particular neuronal cells different from those expressing mGluR1 and mediates an efficient inhibition of forskolin-stimulated cAMP formation in cDNA-transfected cells. The mGluRs thus form a novel family of G protein-coupled receptors that differ in their signal transduction and expression patterns.

The idea of unbalanced load flow calculation was proposed many years ago. At that time, however, the needs for such techniques was not urgent. Modern power system networks are comprised of long untransposed transmission lines. Therefore, for some kinds of analysis, it is now almost impossible to treat a system as though it were a symmetrical network. The aims of most previous studies were oriented to solve voltage/current imbalance in local or small systems, as local imbalance was a serious concern. This is still an important issue, but more recently needs have become concentrated on practical bulk power systems, since principal EHV lines are entirely untransposed. In this paper, the development of practical unbalanced load program and practical experience with it are reported. This program was developed for steady-state analysis of large-scale practical networks under many possible unbalanced conditions. The Newton-Raphson method in polar coordinates is used, since fast and moderate convergent characteristics are suitable for solving solutions. The program was applied to practical case studies. The models contain all of the 500-kV and most of the 275-kV overhead transmission lines in TEPCO. Since the density of the Jacobian matrix is higher than in single-phase load flows, the number of nonzero elements is extremely large. Convergent characteristics are excellent in all cases. The fear of numerical instability has been allayed.

This paper presents fault detection and isolation (FDI) of dead reckoning and an external sensor (laser range sensor, LRS) on mobile robots in a multi-robot team. Each robot in the team monitors states (fault or fault-free) of the in-vehicle sensors by comparing velocity estimates obtained using its own two velocity providers: dead reckoning and laser-based scan matching. When the robot detects a fault, it compares two position estimates and identifies the faulty component (dead reckoning or LRS). The position estimates by each robot are obtained based on laser scan images captured by its own LRS and a leader robot's LRS. Each robot in a multi-robot team is equipped with a small number of sensors; however, there exist a large number of sensors in the entire team. Our FDI is thus designed based on hardware redundancy approach. It requires neither fault models nor dynamic models. Experimental results validate the effectiveness of our FDI method.

Background: The present study investigated whether administration of controlled release matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) plasmid DNA prevents left ventricular (LV) remodeling in a rat chronic myocardial infarction (MI) model. Methods and Results: Rats with a moderate-sized MI were randomized to 2 groups: injection of phosphate buffered saline (PBS) containing microspheres into the peri-infarct area (MI group, n=14) and injection of cationized gelatin microspheres incorporating MMP-1 plasmid DNA (MI+MMP-1 group, 50 μg MMP-1/20 μl; n=14). As a control group (n=14), rats received neither the coronary artery ligation nor the injection of PBS. Echocardiography, cardiac catheterization and histological studies were performed. At 2 and 4 weeks after the treatment, the MI+MMP-1 group had smaller LV end-diastolic and end-systolic dimensions, better fractional area change and smaller akinetic areas than the MI group. The LV end-systolic elastance and time constant of isovolumic relaxation were also better in the MI+MMP-1 group compared with the MI group 4 weeks after the treatment. Fibrosis evaluated with Masson's trichrome staining was less in the MI+MMP-1 group than the MI group. Conclusions: Gelatin microspheres for the controlled release of MMP-1 plasmid DNA are promising for improving cardiac remodeling and function when they are administered during the chronic phase of MI. (Circ J 2009; 73: 2315-2321)

We isolated eight chlorosulfolipids (1-8) from the chrysophyta Ochromonas danica (IAM CS-2), including five new chlorosulfolipids (2-5, 8). The planar structures of all the compounds were elucidated by 1D and 2D NMR and ESI-MS/MS analyses. We determined the relative configuration of seven chlorosulfolipids (1-7), including the most commonly known chlorosulfolipid, 2,2,11,13,15,16-hexachlorodocosane-1,14-disulfate (1), by J-based configuration analysis (JBCA). The absolute configuration of each compound was determined using a modified Mosher's method after chemical degradation. 2,2,11,13,15,16-Hexachloro-14-docosanol-1-sulfate (2) was the most toxic to brine shrimp (Artemia salina) larvae (LC(50) 0.27 microg/mL). Compounds 1 and 4-8 were less toxic (LC(50) 2.2-6.9 microg/mL). Compound 3 was not toxic at 30 microg/mL.

A complementary DNA encoding the rat NMDA receptor has been cloned and characterized. The single protein encoded by the cDNA forms a receptor-channel complex that has electrophysiological and pharmacological properties characteristic of the NMDA receptor. This protein has a significant sequence similarity to the AMPA/kainate receptors and contains four putative transmembrane segments following a large extracellular domain. The NMDA receptor messenger RNA is expressed in neuronal cells throughout the brain regions, particularly in the hippocampus, cerebral cortex and cerebellum.

The tube representation of three dimensional trajectories using 4th order B-splines and quintic splines is presented. Lines or curves have been used to display trajectories such as streamline, electric force line, and various trajectories of moving objects. A still picture, depicted by using this tube models, is able to express a shape of the trajectory, velocity, acceleration, and various attributes in a three dimensional manner, because a tube has a finite volume and it can assign local variables such as size, tortuosity, color, and texture. This representation is useful to analyze various object motions comprehensively.

The oxidation of manganese(II) in a benzoylacetonate and a dibenzoylmethanate complex in water-saturated organic solvents by dissolved atmospheric oxygen was measured. The rate of oxidation in carbon tetrachloride and toluene was higher: dibenzoylmethane>acetylacetone>benzoylacetone. When the ligand was the same, it was higher in toluene than in carbon tetrachloride, but was very low in 4-methyl-2-pentanone. Such an oxidation also occurred in the organic phase of solvent extraction systems with these β-diketones. For this reason the extraction was enhanced very much when the two phases were agitated for a long time.

Regeneration of cardiac pacemakers is an important target of cardiac regeneration. Previously, we developed a novel embryonic stem (ES) cell differentiation system that could trace cardiovascular differentiation processes at the cellular level. In the present study, we examine expressions and functions of ion channels in ES cell-derived cardiomyocytes during their differentiation and identify ion channels that confer their automaticity. ES cell-derived Flk1+ mesoderm cells give rise to spontaneously beating cardiomyocytes on OP9 stroma cells. Spontaneously beating colonies observed at day 9.5 of Flk1+ cell culture (Flk-d9.5) were significantly decreased at Flk-d23.5. Expressions of ion channels in pacemaker cells hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN)1 and -4 and voltage-gated calcium channel (Cav)3.1 and -3.2 were significantly decreased in purified cardiomyocytes at Flk-d23.5 compared with at Flk-d9.5, whereas expression of an atrial and ventricular ion channel, inward rectifier potassium channel (Kir)2.1, did not change. Blockade of HCNs and Cav ion channels significantly inhibited beating rates of cardiomyocyte colonies. Electrophysiological studies demonstrated that spontaneously beating cardiomyocytes at Flk-d9.5 showed almost similar features to those of the native mouse sinoatrial node except for relatively deep maximal diastolic potential and faster maximal upstroke velocity. Although ∼60% of myocytes at Flk-d23.5 revealed almost the same properties as those at Flk-d9.5, ∼40% of myocytes showed loss of HCN and decreased Cav3 currents and ceased spontaneous beating, with no remarkable increase of Kir2.1. Thus, HCN and Cav3 ion channels should be responsible for the maintenance of automaticity in ES cell-derived cardiomyocytes. Controlled regulation of these ion channels should be required to generate complete biological pacemakers.Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.

Recently, PFOS was reported to be ubiquitously detected in the environment, as well as in human serum, raising concerns regarding its health risks. We investigated the effects of PFOS on action potentials and currents in cultured rat cerebellar Purkinje cells using whole-cell patch-clamp recording. In current-clamp experiments, PFOS significantly decreased the action potential frequency during current injection, the maximum rate of fall and the threshold of action potential, and negatively shifted the resting membrane potential at doses over 30microM. In voltage-clamp experiments, PFOS shifted the half-activation and inactivation voltages of I(Ca), I(Na), and I(K) toward hyperpolarization at 30microM. I(HCN1) expressed in Xenopus oocytes was similarly affected. Incorporation of PFOS into the cell membrane probably increased the surface negative charge density, thereby reducing the transmembrane potential gradient and resulting in hyperpolarizing shifts of both the activation and inactivation of ionic channels. These findings indicate that PFOS may exhibit neurotoxicity.

Neurons initiate spikes in the axon initial segment or at the first node in the axon. However, it is not yet understood how the site of spike initiation affects neuronal activity and function. In nucleus laminaris of birds, neurons behave as coincidence detectors for sound source localization and encode interaural time differences (ITDs) separately at each characteristic frequency (CF). Here we show, in nucleus laminaris of the chick, that the site of spike initiation in the axon is arranged at a distance from the soma, so as to achieve the highest ITD sensitivity at each CF. Na+ channels were not found in the soma of high-CF (2.5-3.3 kHz) and middle-CF (1.0-2.5 kHz) neurons but were clustered within a short segment of the axon separated by 20-50 microm from the soma; in low-CF (0.4-1.0 kHz) neurons they were clustered in a longer stretch of the axon closer to the soma. Thus, neurons initiate spikes at a more remote site as the CF of neurons increases. Consequently, the somatic amplitudes of both orthodromic and antidromic spikes were small in high-CF and middle-CF neurons and were large in low-CF neurons. Computer simulation showed that the geometry of the initiation site was optimized to reduce the threshold of spike generation and to increase the ITD sensitivity at each CF. Especially in high-CF neurons, a distant localization of the spike initiation site improved the ITD sensitivity because of electrical isolation of the initiation site from the soma and dendrites, and because of reduction of Na+-channel inactivation by attenuating the temporal summation of synaptic potentials through the low-pass filtering along the axon.

The new phytosphingosine-type ceramide asteriaceramide A (1) and glucocerebroside asteriacerebroside G (2), together with two known cerebrosides, asteriacerebrosides A and B, were isolated from lipophilic fractions of the whole bodies of the Northern Pacific starfish Asterias amurensis Lutken. The water-soluble fraction afforded two known asterosaponins, glycoside B(2) and asterosaponin-1. The structures of 1 and 2 were determined on the basis of chemical and spectroscopic evidence as (2S,3S,4R,13Z)-2-[(2'R)-2-hydroxyhexadecanoylamino]-13-docosene-1,3,4-triol (1) and 1-O-(beta-d-glucopyranosyl)-(2S,3R,4E,13Z)-2-[(2'R)-2-hydroxytetradecanoylamino]-4,13-docosadiene-1,3-diol (2). Compounds 1, 2, and asteriacerebrosides A and B promoted plant growth in sprouts of Brassica campestris.

STUDY DESIGN Kinematics of the cervical spine during lateral bending were investigated using a novel system of three-dimensional motion analysis. OBJECTIVES To demonstrate in vivo intervertebral coupled motions of the cervical spine during lateral bending of the neck. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA No previous studies have successfully documented in vivo three-dimensional intervertebral motions of the cervical spine during lateral bending. METHODS Twelve healthy volunteers underwent three-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the cervical spine in 7 positions with 10 degrees increments of lateral bending. Relative motions of the cervical spine were calculated automatically by superimposing a segmented three-dimensional-MRI of the vertebra in the neutral position over images of each position using volume registration. RESULTS Mean maximum lateral bending of the cervical spine to one side was 1.6 degrees to 5.7 degrees at each level. Coupled axial rotation opposite to lateral bending was observed in the upper cervical levels (Oc-C1, 0.2 degrees ; C1-C2, 17.1 degrees ), while in the subaxial cervical levels, it was observed in the same direction as lateral bending except for at C7-T1. Coupled flexion-extension motion was small at all vertebral levels (

This paper proposes an on-chip differential- transmission-line (DTL) interconnect to reduce delay and power consumption in long global interconnects. The DTL interconnect can transmit signals at near light-of-speed with small power dissipation of Tx. The proposed DTL interconnect consists of Tx, DTL and Rx, and an asymmetric Tx is employed to reduce offset delay in Tx. In the measurement result, 5 Gbps signal transmission can be achieved through 3 mm-length interconnect, and delay and total power consumption are 140 ps and 6.5 mW, respectively. A 180 nm standard CMOS process was utilized. Figure of merit (FoM) for on-chip interconnects is proposed to evaluate delay and power consumption. The proposed DTL interconnect is compared with the conventional RC, DTL and optical interconnects, and it achieves the highest FoM at more than 5 mm length.

Coincidence detection of bilateral acoustic signals in nucleus laminaris (NL) is the first step in azimuthal sound source localization in birds. Here, we demonstrate graded expression of hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) cation channels along the tonotopic axis of NL and its role in the regulation of coincidence detection. Expression of HCN1 and HCN2, but not HCN3 or HCN4, was detected in NL. Based on measurement of both subtype mRNA and protein, HCN1 varied along the tonotopic axis and was minimal in high-characteristic frequency (CF) neurons. In contrast, HCN2 was evenly distributed. The resting conductance was larger and the steady-state activation curve ofIhwas more positive in neurons of middle to low CF than those of high CF, consistent with the predominance of HCN1 channels in these neurons. Application of 8-Br-cAMP or noradrenaline generated a depolarizing shift of theIhvoltage activation curve. This shift was larger in neurons of high CF than in those of middle CF. The shift in the activation voltage ofIhdepolarized the resting membrane, accelerated the EPSP time course, and significantly improved the coincidence detection in neurons of high CF, suggesting thatIhmay improve the localization of sound sources.

Object. Although conducting cervical laminoplasty in patients with multisegmental cord compression provides good neurological results, it is not without shortcomings, including C-5 palsy, axial neck pain, and undesirable radiologically detectable changes. Postoperative kyphosis and segmental instability can cause neurological problems and are believed mainly to result from neck muscle disruption. The authors developed a new laminoplasty technique, with the aim of preserving optimal muscle function. Methods. The present technique is a modification of unilateral open-door laminoplasty. By using an ultrasonic osteotome in small gaps of muscle bellies, a gutter is made without disrupting muscles, spinous processes, or their connections on the hinged side. Ceramic spacers are then positioned between elevated laminae and lateral masses at C-3, C-5, and C-7 on the opened side, which is exposed in a conventional manner. This new procedure was used to treat 37 consecutive patients with compression myelopathy. Postoperative computerized tomography (CT) scanning revealed a significant difference in a cross-sectional area of muscles between the hinged and opened side. The mean follow-up period was 40.2 months (range 24–54 months). Changes in alignment were observed in only one patient, and vertebral slippage developed in two. Performed at regular intervals, CT scanning demonstrated that the elevated laminae remained in situ throughout the study period. Conclusions. In using the present unilateral open-door laminoplasty technique, deep extensor muscles are left intact along with their junctions to spinous processes on the hinged side. Radiologically documented changes were minimal because the preserved muscles functioned normally immediately after the operation.

Here, we report the properties of a FRET-based calcium indicator protein. We constructed a tandem fusion protein, named F2C, of ECFP and EYFP combined with calpain-sensitive sequences of {alpha}-spectrin, with N-terminal palmitoylation signal of GAP-43. It was previously reported that calpain cleaved a similar ECFP-EYFP fusion protein linked by a calpain-sensitive sequence of {alpha}-spectrin (fodrin). Unexpectedly, F2C was not cleaved by calpain, but demonstrated properties of a Ca{sup 2+} indicator when transiently infected in Purkinje cells of rat primary cerebellar culture or in the brainstem neurons infected in vivo using Sindbis virus encoding F2C. The emission ratio of 480 nm/535 nm was repeatedly increased when the intracellular Ca{sup 2+} concentration ([Ca{sup 2+}]{sub i}) was raised. F2C had a Ca{sup 2+} sensitivity with an apparent dissociation constant (K {sub d} for Ca{sup 2+}) of 150 nM, and demonstrated kinetics that paralleled Fura-2 when [Ca{sup 2+}]{sub i} was measured simultaneously. These properties of F2C are useful to be a Ca{sup 2+} indicator.

Study Design. A retrospective study was conducted. Objective. To compare the long-term outcomes after laminoplasty and anterior spinal fusion (ASF) for cervical myelopathy secondary to disc herniation. Summary of Background Data. There have been no reports of long-term comparative studies of laminoplasty and ASF for cervical myelopathy due to disc herniation. Methods. Of 21 patients who underwent ASF only between 1984 and 1987, 15 were followed up. Of 22 patients who underwent laminoplasty only between 1987 and 1994, 18 were followed up. There were no significant differences in preoperative prognostic factors between the 2 groups. Average follow-up was 15 years in the ASF group and 10 years in the laminoplasty group. Neurologic and radiologic results were examined. Results. Laminoplasty and ASF provided equal neurologic improvement. In the ASF group, additional surgery was required for bone graft complications in 2 patients and for adjacent spondylosis in 1. In the laminoplasty group, one patient had C5 palsy, and intractable axial pain developed in 5 patients after surgery, but no patients needed additional surgery. Conclusions. Because the 2 procedures provided the same neurologic improvement, the risks of bone graft complication with ASF must be weighed against the risks of chronic neck pain associated with laminoplasty for determining the best technique. Therefore, because our present surgical strategy for cervical myelopathy due to disc herniation, laminoplasty is the procedure of choice except for a patient with single level disc herniation without developmental canal stenosis, who is considered to be a good candidate for ASF.

Three-dimensional intervertebral motions of the subaxial cervical spine during head rotation were investigated in healthy volunteers using three-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).To document intervertebral coupled motions of the subaxial cervical spine during rotation.In vivo three-dimensional kinematics of the subaxial cervical spine in rotation have not previously been well described, since they are too complicated to follow using conventional radiography or computed tomography techniques.Ten healthy volunteers underwent three-dimensional MRI of the cervical spine in 11 positions with 15 degrees increments during head rotation using a 1.0-T imager. Relative motions of the subaxial cervical spine were calculated by automatically superimposing a segmented three-dimensional MRI of the vertebra in the neutral position over images of each position using volume registration. Three-dimensional motions of adjacent vertebrae were represented with 6 df (6 degrees of freedoms) by Euler angles and translations on the coordinate system defined by Panjabi, then visualized in animations using surface bone models.Mean axial rotation of the subaxial cervical spine in maximum head rotation (69.5 degrees ) was 2.2 degrees at C2-C3, 4.5 degrees at C3-C4, 4.6 degrees at C4-C5, 4.0 degrees at C5-C6, 1.6 degrees at C6-C7, and 1.5 degrees at C7-T1. Coupled lateral bending with axial rotation was observed in the same direction as axial rotation at all levels (C2-C3, 3.6 degrees ; C3-C4, 5.4 degrees; C4-C5, 5.0 degrees ; C5-C6, 5.3 degrees ; C6-C7, 4.9 degrees ; C7-T1, 1.2 degrees ). Coupled extension with axial rotation occurred in the middle cervical region (C2-C3, 1.4 degrees ; C3-C4, 2.3 degrees ; C4-C5, 1.5 degrees ), while in the lower cervical region, flexion was coupled with axial rotation (C5-C6, 0.9 degrees ; C6-C7, 2.4 degrees ; C7-T1, 3.0 degrees ).We investigated intervertebral motions of the subaxial cervical spine during head rotation using a three-dimensional imaging system, and obtained the first accurate depictions of in vivo coupled motion. These findings will be helpful as the basis for understanding abnormal conditions.

Background Actions of volatile anesthetics on ligand-gated ion channels, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptors, have been studied extensively. However, actions on other types of channels, such as K+ channels, are poorly understood. The authors previously showed that a Ca2+-activated K+ channel, IK, is sensitive to halothane, whereas SK1, another Ca2+-activated K+ channel, is insensitive. To explore how halothane acts on Ca2+-activated K+ channels, chimeras between IK and SK1 were constructed, and halothane sensitivity was analyzed. Methods IK, SK1, and chimera channels were expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes. Currents of expressed channels were measured in the presence of 10 microm Ca2+ by excised patch clamp analysis. Time constants of inhibition by halothane were compared between inside-out and outside-out patch configurations. Results Currents from chimera channels possessing the pore domain derived from IK were inhibited by halothane, whereas those possessing the SK1 pore domain were insensitive. Time constants of inhibition by halothane were significantly smaller in the outside-out patches than in the inside-out patches of both wild-type IK and a chimera with pore domain of IK. Conclusions It is suggested that halothane interacts with the extracellular part of the ionic pore of IK. Whether this type of interaction is involved in the mechanism of anesthetic actions on ligand-gated ion channels warrants further investigation.