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Morphological data on the development of the human perihypoglossal nuclei (PHN) are scarce. This study describes the morphology of the human PHN from mid-gestation to the perinatal period.Ten brains were collected from infants aged 21-43 postmenstrual weeks (PW). Serial sections were cut and stained using the Klüver-Barrera method. Morphometric parameters [volume, neuronal numerical density (Nv) and total number (Nt), and neuronal profile area (PA)] were analyzed from microscopic observations.Four PHN [nucleus of Roller (RO), interfascicular nucleus (IF), intercalated nucleus (IC), and prepositus nucleus (PR)] were identified at 21 PW. Medium-sized to large, oval, or polygonal neurons were concentrated in the ventral nuclei (RO and IF) and localized regions near the IC-PR transition of the dorsal nuclei (IC and PR). Small to large neurons of various shapes were scattered across the dorsal nuclei. The PR showed rostrocaudal differences in the neuronal cytoarchitecture. The volume of each nucleus increased between 21 and 43 PW, with a typical exponential increase for the dorsal nuclei. The Nv in each nucleus exponentially decreased, whereas the Nt was almost stable. The median PA linearly increased for every nucleus, and the increasing rates were greater for the ventral nuclei than those for the dorsal nuclei.The dorsal and ventral PHN are identifiable at mid-gestation. The topographic relationships of the four nuclei are conserved until the perinatal period. The characteristic neuronal cytoarchitecture of each group is rapidly formed by 28-30 PW.

Introduction The human hypoglossal nucleus (nXII) was morphologically examined from mid-gestation to the perinatal period. Materials/methods Serial brain sections from 6 preterm and 4 perinatal infants aged 21–43 postmenstrual weeks (PW) were stained with the Kluver–Barrera method. Following microscopic observation, morphometric parameters (volume, neuronal number, and neuronal profile area [PA]) were analysed. Results Two types of neurons, motor and non-motor neurons, were observed at 21 PW. The motor neurons were distributed into clusters, which were not completely separated. The non-motor neurons were dispersed among the motor neurons. Myelination of the hypoglossal nerve roots was noted at 21 PW, when degenerated neurons were sporadically encountered. To a lesser extent, they were seen until 35 PW. The nXII volume increased exponentially with age. Conversely, the neuronal numerical density decreased exponentially, while the total number remained relatively stable. The neuronal PA increased gradually, with a greater rate of increase measured in the caudal part. Conclusions In the human nXII, motor and non-motor neurons are distinguishable from mid-gestation. Then, while the nXII expands exponentially in volume, the two types of neurons change in number and PA almost in parallel during the second half of gestation. Natural neuronal death may also occur.

Background The cytoarchitecturally defined Edinger–Westphal nucleus (EW) is now referred to by many investigators as the centrally-projecting EW (EWcp) in humans. Although the mature structure is well-characterized, there have been few reports describing the precise morphology of this nucleus during the second half of gestation. Subjects/Design Eleven brains were examined from preterm infants, aged 20–39 postmenstrual weeks, who died of various causes. After fixation, the brains were embedded in celloidin and serial sections of 30-μm thickness were cut in the horizontal plane. Sections were stained using the Kluver–Barrera method. In addition to microscopic observations, computerized 3D reconstruction and morphometry were performed. Results From 21 weeks, the EWcp had a distinctive, complex 3D structure comprising two or three parts. The dorsal part was arcuate, half encircling the oculomotor somatic nuclei (OSN). The rostral part was the most voluminous, ventral to the rostral OSN, extending anteriorly. The caudal part was the smallest, and was composed of several neuronal groups near the ventral tip of the OSN. In three cases, the caudal part was absent. It could also be joined to the rostral part, forming a ventral part. The total volume of the EWcp increased exponentially with age, and the ventral part grew more rapidly than the dorsal part. The mean neuronal profile area increased linearly with age, and the rate of increase was almost equal between the dorsal and ventral parts. Conclusions This study suggests that a distinctive, complex, two- or three-part 3D structure of the EWcp is preserved after mid-gestation, and that the ventral part of the EWcp may expand in volume more rapidly than the dorsal part.

Introduction This study described the prenatal development of the accessory olivary nuclei (AO) in humans. Materials/methods Serial brain sections from ten pre- and full term infants aged 21–43 postmenstrual weeks (PW) were stained using the Kluver–Barrera method. A computerized 3D-reconstruction technique and morphometry were adopted for the study. Results The medial AO (MAO) and dorsal AO (DAO) were identified at 21 PW. The dorsal cap was clearly differentiated from the main body (MB) of the MAO in neuronal cytoarchitecture. Pyknotic neurons were diffusely observed in the AO at 21 PW and were most concentrated in the MB. These neurons became infrequent from 28 PW onward. Neuronal nests existed in clusters between the AO and the medial lemniscus at 21 PW, which reduced progressively in size and number with age. The 3D-reconstructions showed that the AO are separated into caudal and rostral parts, and that this separation is achieved by mid-gestation in the DAO. Nuclear volume increased exponentially with age in the AO, although the rate of increase was half that of the principal nucleus (PO). Neuronal numerical density decreased rapidly 21–28 PW. The total neuronal number showed a weak correlation with age. The mean neuronal profile area increased linearly with age. Conclusion The human AO are separated into caudal and rostral parts in the fetal period. The nuclear volume and neuronal profile areas increase with age, although the rate of this increase is lower than in the PO. Natural neuronal death may occur at mid-gestation in the AO.

Introduction The lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) is the major relay center of the visual pathway in humans. There are few quantitative data on the morphology of LGN in prenatal infants. In this study, using serial brain sections, the author investigated the morphology of this nucleus during the second half of fetal period. Material and methods Eleven human brains were obtained at routine autopsy from preterm infants aged 20–39 postmenstrual weeks. After fixation, the brain was embedded en bloc in celloidin and cut serially at 30 μm in the horizontal plane. The sections were stained at regular intervals using the Kluver–Barrera method. Results At 20–21 weeks, the long axis of LGN declined obliquely from the vertical to horizontal plane, while a deep groove was noted on the ventro-lateral surface of the superior half. At this time, an arcuate cell-sparse zone appeared in the dorso-medial region, indicating the beginning of lamination. From 25 weeks onwards, the magnocellular and parvocellular layers were distinguishable, and the characteristic six-layered structure was recognized. The magnocellular layer covered most of the dorsal surface, and parts of the medial, lateral, and inferior surfaces but not the ventral and superior surfaces. Nuclear volume increased exponentially with age during 20–39 weeks, while the mean neuronal profile area increased linearly during 25–39 weeks. Conclusion Human LGN develops a deep groove on the ventro-lateral surface at around mid-gestation, when the initial lamination is recognized in the prospective magnocellular layer. Thereafter, the nuclear volume increases with age in an exponential function.

Summary Background Precise anatomical data on the development of human oculomotor somatic nuclei (OSN) remain rare. Design/subjects This study describes the histology of human OSN in 11 preterm and full-term infants aged 20–43 postmenstrual weeks who died of various causes. Celloidin-embedded serial sections were stained with the Kluver–Barrera and other conventional methods including silver impregnation. To evaluate the growth of OSN quantitatively, the author estimated the nuclear volume and the average neuronal area on morphometry. Results Four subnuclei were identified at 20–21 weeks: the fascicular, principal, dorsal median, and ventral median nucleus. Early tigroid Nissl bodies appeared in presumed motoneurons by 27–28 weeks, then resembled adult Nissl bodies at birth. On silver impregnation, the oculomotor nerve roots, crossed or uncrossed fibers at the midline, and a plexus of efferent or afferent axons in the neuropil were observed at 20–21 weeks. Then, the plexus was elaborated to form a perineuronal net of thin axon terminals by 28–29 weeks. The nuclear volume of OSN exponentially increased with age over 20–43 weeks, while the average of neuronal profile areas linearly increased in each subnucleus; the coefficient of regression was largest in the principal nucleus, and the regression lines nearly overlapped among the other subnuclei. Statistical analysis confirmed that the average neuronal area was largest in the principal nucleus in older cases. Conclusion This study suggests that four subnuclei can be distinguished in human OSN by mid gestation, and that the principal nucleus may be different in neuronal cytoarchitecture from the others.

Introduction This study describes the prenatal development of the principal inferior olivary nucleus (PO) in humans. Material/methods Ten brains were obtained from preterm infants aged 21–43 postmenstrual weeks (PW). After fixation, the brains were processed into 30-μm serial sections, which were stained using the Kluver–Barrera method. Results At mid-gestation, the dorsal and ventral lamellae were distinguishable. The dorsal lamella (DL) was composed of ballooned and folded portions, with many neurons peripherally gathered in the ballooned portion, and neurons densely packed in the folded portion. Clusters of pyknotic neurons were observed in the lateral portion of the PO at 21PW. The PO acquired thin complicated folds by 28–29 PW. Then, it regained the width of a nuclear band, and further elaborated the folds. The 3D-reconstruction models showed that the basic pattern of folding like in adults was attained at 28−29PW, and that the rostro-medial region of DL was microgyric. The nuclear volume increased exponentially with age. The total surface area increased progressively, while the surface density varied in a biphasic manner, wherein it increased initially and then decreased. The neuronal profile area increased uniformly. The total neuronal number increased uniformly, while the numerical density decreased rapidly during 21–29 PW. Conclusion After mid-gestation, the period of 21–29 PW may be critical, because the PO undergoes extensive folding after massive neuronal death.

We describe a rare case of an acardiac twin (acardius anceps) with advanced brain development. Complete serial sections of the brain were made for microscopic observation and volumetric analysis. The cerebral surface showed unusual gyri and sulci with absence of the right olfactory bulb. Cortical lamination was almost normal, except for the insula where polymicrogyria and leptomeningeal neuroglial heterotopia were seen. The latter was also observed in the basal forebrain. Partial agenesis of the corpus callosum was noted with a very thick left cingulate gyrus. The anterior commissure did not cross the midline. Subcortical structures including basal ganglia, diencephalon, and brainstem/cerebellum appeared grossly normal, but hypo- or dysplasic changes were observed in some regions. The ventricles were enlarged and the left internal carotid artery was absent. In addition, porencephalic foci were located in the right temporal and parietal lobes. On comparative volumetry, the total brain was normal, but brain structures showed variable volumetric changes, with higher volume in the ventricles, diencephalon, and archi-/paleopallium, and lower volume in the periventricular germinal layer, basal ganglia, cerebral cortex, and brainstem/cerebellum. These observations showed that brain development can proceed nearly normally in acardia if blood flow is relatively preserved.

The concentrations of PCB congeners in the blubber and liver of mother Steller sea lions ( Eumetopias jubatus ; SSLs) and their fetuses from the coast of Hokkaido, Japan in 2008, 2010 and 2012 were analyzed by HRGC–HRMS, in order to elucidate PCB congener profiles and maternal-to-fetal transfer of PCBs in SSLs. ΣPCBs in the fetuses were 1400 ± 660 (the mean ± SD) ng/g-fat in the blubber and 570 ± 320 ng/g-fat in the liver, respectively. There was a concern that SSLs had been contaminated by PCBs during the fetal period. The concentrations of the major congeners in the blubber and liver were a correlation between the fetus and mother (blubber: r = 0.9934, liver: r = 0.9160; P ≦ 0.05). The results indicated that PCBs in the fetuses came from the mothers. #177 and #199 showed no correlations between the fetus and the mother in the blubber and liver. This indicated a selective capture by some natural protector such as the placenta.

The concentrations of PCB congeners in the blubber and liver of male and female Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus; SSLs) collected from the Shakotan Peninsula and the Nemuro Strait, Hokkaido, Japan in 2008 and 2010 were measured by HRGC-HRMS, in order to express the concentration profiles in SSLs at these regions. #153 predominated in both organs, followed by #138, #99 and #118. In males, #28 and #31 were concentrated particularly in the blubber, while #177 and #199 were accumulated specifically in the liver. The differences in these concentration profiles might be expressed by the differences in the organs and their functions. The concentrations of #99, #118, #138, #153, and #180 in the blubber appeared to correspond significantly with the differences between genders. The details of the surveys on PCB congeners in SSLs could clarify the differences in the residue levels of individual congeners for organs and genders.

There is a strong need for the development of relatively rapid and low-cost bioassays for the determination of dioxins (polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, dibenzofurans, and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls) in environmental and food samples. In this study, we applied a bioassay system using highly sensitive DR-EcoScreen cells (DR-cell assay) to the determination of low levels of dioxins in ambient air samples. The dioxins from 80 ambient air samples were extracted, purified by cleanup procedure, and applied to both DR-cell assay and high-resolution gas chromatography/high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRGC-HRMS) analysis. Interestingly, the toxic equivalents (TEQ) values obtained from the DR-cell assay were closely correlated with those from the HRGC-HRMS analysis (r2 = 0.957). Although the cell-based TEQ values were relatively (3.66-fold) higher than the TEQ values from the HRGC-HRMS analysis, this discrepancy was thought to be due to the difference between the toxic equivalency factor (TEF) and the relative potency (DR-REP) determined for individual dioxins. Therefore, we multiplied the TEQ values from the DR-cell assay by a conversion coefficient (0.273, the reciprocal of 3.66) and could approximate the values from the HRGC-HRMS analysis. These results clearly suggest at the DR-cell assay might be a promising method for the rapid and low-cost screening of dioxins in ambient air samples.

Morphology of the human parvocellular red nucleus (RNp) was investigated in 14 fetuses aged from 12 to 39 weeks of gestation (WG). The brains were processed into celloidin-embedded serial sections. At 12 WG, the anlage of RNp was observed as an ovoid mass of immature neurons clustering into some groups. Lobular appearance in cross-sectional images was conspicuous during the early stages (12–23 WG), particularly at rostral levels. The fasciculus retroflexus of Meynert was seen as a prominent bundle of fibers surrounded by the most rostral part of RNp. Two types of neurons were identified: large and small neurons. Large neurons were earlier observed at 16 WG, and had a polygonal or multipolar perikaryon with abundant Nissl bodies from 28 WG onwards. Small neurons later appeared among large neurons at 21 WG, and had a triangular or ovoid perikaryon with scanty Nissl bodies. The volume of RNp showed an exponential increase with age during 20–39 WG. The mean of neuronal perikaryonal areas showed a linear increase with age in both types during 16–39 WG, although the degree of change was much greater in large neurons than small neurons. The current study has clearly demonstrated the presence of two neuronal populations and their differential growth in developing human RNp.

ポリ塩化ビフェニル（PCB）の全コンジェナー分析によって得られる詳細なパターン情報に基づき，主成分分析とクラスター分析及び3種のケミカルマスバランス法（CMB8，Mr-CMB，Fr-CMB）を用いて環境中のPCB汚染由来の推定を試みた．主成分分析及びクラスター分析では4種のカネクロール（KC300，KC400，KC500，KC600）及び燃焼由来試料の同定とコンジェナーパターンの特徴付けを行った．次にこの結果を踏まえCMB8，Mr-CMB及びFr-CMBにより種々の環境試料におけるPCBの各汚染由来の寄与率を算出し，それぞれのCMBの解析結果の比較及び評価を行った．その結果，おおむねそれぞれの寄与率推定結果は一致し，また，対象試料の特徴を適切に示していた．

The development of the human magnocellular red nucleus (RNm) was studied in 20 fetuses at 12-39 weeks of gestation (WG). With microscopic observation on serial sections of the brain, we measured the profile area of a neuronal cell body. At 12WG, several islands of immature cells of the RNm appeared dorsal to the parvocellular red nucleus (RNp). At 16WG, the RNm was detected ventral to the RNp as a cluster of semilunar shape, consisting of basophilic neurons of various sizes. During 18-23WG, the neurons were dispersed dorsal to the RNp. They were isolated or aggregated as small clusters among the myelinated oculomotor nerve roots. Twenty-eight WG onwards, the neurons were widely distributed ventrolateral to the superior cerebellar peduncle and around the caudal pole of the RNp. Measurement of the profile area revealed that the average size of overall neurons increased almost linearly with the gestational age, and that two populations (large and small neurons) were clearly distinguished on the histogram from 33WG onwards. The relative position of the RNm to the RNp may vary among the individuals, especially in earlier fetal stage. This study suggests that the differentiation and maturation of neuronal cytoarchitecture of the RNm may gradually and monotonously progress during the later half of gestation.

Chemistry and sulfur isotopes are analyzed for a series of rocks in the chert-dominant sequence around the stratiform manganese ore deposit of the Noda-Tamagawa mine in the northern Kitakami Terrane, northeast Japan. The sequence is litholog-ically classified into six units in ascending order: lower bedded chert, lower black shale, massive chert, manganese ore, upper black shale, and upper bedded chert. The rocks around the manganese ore deposit exhibit anomalous enrichment in Ni (max. 337 ppm), Zn (102) and U (30) in the upper part of lower bedded chert, Mo (122), Tl (79) and Pb (33) in the lower black shale, MnO, Cu (786) and Co (62) in the manganese ore, and As (247) and Sb (17) in the upper black shale. The aluminum-normalized profiles reveal zonal enrichment of redox-sensitive elements around the manganese bed: Zn-Ni-Fe-Mo-U(-Co), Tl-Pb(-Mo), Mn-Fe-Cu-V-Cr-Co(-Zn) and As-Sb in ascending order. The uppermost part of the lower bedded chert and black shale exhibit negative Ce/Ce* values, whereas the massive chert, manganese ore and lower part of the upper bedded chert display positive values. The isotopic δ34S values are 0±6 % in the lower part of the lower bedded chert, -19 to -42 % in the upper part of the lower bedded chert, -36 to -42 % in the lower black shale, -28 to -35 % in the massive chert, manganese ore and upper black shale, and -23±5 % in the upper bedded chert. Thus, there is a marked negative shift in δ34S values in the lower bedded chert, and an upward-increasing trend in δ34S through the manganese ore horizon. The present data provide evidence for a change in the paleoceanographic environmental resulting from inflow of oxic deepwater into the stagnant anoxic ocean floor below the manganese ore horizon. This event is likely to have triggered the precipitation of manganese oxyhydroxides. The redistribution of redox-sensitive elements through the formation of metalliferous black shale and manganese carbonate ore may have occurred in association with bacterial decomposition of organic matter during early diagenesis of initial manganese oxyhydroxides.

The photodegradation behavior of a straight asphalt was investigated using a new method "photodegradation test of asphalt binder using pressed thin film samples". Although the photodegradation caused by outdoor exposure is limited to the near surface, the results confirmed that the degree of degradation during 1 to 2 months is more severe than that by the pressure aging vessel (PAV) test, which is designed to simulate the degradation that will occur in the asphalt pavement over 5 to 10 service years., Le comportement à la photodégradation d'un asphalte sans additif a été étudié en utilisant une nouvelle méthode, « essai de photodégradation d'échantillons de minces couches pressées de liant routier ». Bien que la photodégradation engendrée par l'exposition aux éléments soit peu profonde, les résultats ont confirmé que le niveau de dégradation durant 1 à 2 mois est plus élevé que celui indiqué par l’essai de vieillissement PAV (pressure aging vessel) qui est conçu pour simuler la dégradation du revêtement en asphalte durant une période de 5 à 10 ans.

Forty-four women who had undergone cementless total hip arthroplasty (THA) were selected for determination of the optimum dosage of etidronate in the treatment of stress shielding after surgery. Patients were 55-86 years of age. The patients were randomized into three groups. The control group (n = 17) was not treated with osteoactive drugs. The low-dose group (n = 12) and the high-dose group (n = 15) received 200 mg or 400 mg etidronate daily for 2 weeks, followed by 12 weeks of calcium supplementation of 500 mg/day. These patients received four cycles of therapy over 1 year postoperatively. Periprosthetic bone mineral density (BMD) was measured with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry at 3 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months. At 12 months, bone loss in the low-dose and high-dose groups was significantly lower compared with the control group in Gruen zones 1 and 7. There were additional significant differences with regard to bone loss between the control group and the high-dose group in zones 2, 4, and 6. Our data suggest that high dosages are more effective in reducing postoperative bone loss after cementless THA.

Aggregate pop-out is one of the major damages of porous asphalt pavement. As for the causes of pop-out damage, initial performance of modified binders such as shear strength and brittleness at low temperature must be an important factor, but the author focus on the deterioration of modified binders due to ultra-violet rays (UV) in this study. The results of Cantabro-loss after UV irradiation showed that accelerated UV aging induced the aggregate pop-out damage of porous asphalt mixtures. Binder properties after UV irradiation also showed the increase of Fraas Breaking Point and oxygen containing functional group. Furthermore, it was confirmed that there is a good correlation between the increase of oxygen containing functional group and Fraas Breaking Point.

Focusing on sunlight that has severe effects on the degradation of asphalt pavement during service, this study examined the relationships between the film thickness of asphalt and the states of photodegradation. The results confirmed that thinner films had a higher modulus of elasticity, lower viscosity, and increased production of carbonyl groups, which is an indicator of oxidative degradation. The degree of degradation rapidly increased especially at thicknesses below 200 μm. The wavelength dependence of spectral photodegradation was also examined. Visual observations and the carbonyl index confirmed that ultraviolet irradiation in the range of 300 to 400 nm caused severe photodegradation of asphalt. Carbon black blocked light near the surface of the asphalt layer, where the damage caused by light is most severe. Addition of carbon black helps to prevent photodegradation by ultraviolet irradiation in the wavelength range of 300 to 400 nm., アスファルト舗装の供用中の劣化現象に影響の大きい光に注目し，この劣化におけるアスファルト単体の膜厚の影響を調査した。その結果，膜厚が薄くなるにつれて，特に200 μm以下の領域で，弾性率の増大や粘性の喪失，また酸化劣化を示すカルボニル基生成の増大など，劣化の程度が急激に著しくなることが確認された。また，分光劣化試験による波長依存性を調査した結果，外観変化やカルボニル指数の挙動より，アスファルトの光による劣化には波長範囲300～400 nmの紫外線の影響が大きいことを明らかにした。さらに，遮光性フィラーとして知られるカーボンブラックは，光による劣化の著しいアスファルト層の表面付近で機能し，波長300～400 nmの紫外線による劣化を抑える効果のあることが見出された。

Carbon black, used as a reinforcing filler for rubber materials, was evaluated for asphalt binders in pavements. Carbon black added to straight asphalt within 20 wt% caused an increase in the elastic modulus and a decrease in the viscosity of the asphalt, especially at temperatures higher than room temperature. Addition of carbon black raised the maximum service temperature of asphalt in the category of the binder performance grade according to the SHRP (Strategic Highway Research Program) specifications. On the other hand, addition of carbon black also increased the failure strain at low temperatures. Furthermore, addition of carbon black reduced the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of asphalt to closer to that of aggregates. In asphalt mixtures, tensile stress occurs at the boundary between asphalt and aggregate with decreasing temperature due to the CTE difference. Addition of carbon black reduced this stress. Carbon black addition to asphalt has the potential to improve both deformation resistance in the high temperature region and crack resistance in the low temperature region, which were empirically considered to be contradictory. Therefore, carbon black is an effective filler for improving the durability of asphalt pavements.

The components of asphalt binders were separately irradiated with ultraviolet (UV) rays to examine the aging mechanism. The results confirmed that saturates are converted to resins and asphaltenes, resulting in oxygen-containing functional groups, i.e. carbonyl group. The observation also suggested that aromatics are converted to resins and asphaltenes by a different mechanism from saturates. Carbon black, which is extensively used as a weatherproofing filler in the field of plastics, prevented UV conversion of saturates to form carbonyl groups. Furthermore, addition of carbon black to asphalt binder reduced the rise in Fraass brittle point caused by UV irradiation because carbon black suppressed the associated chemical deterioration of asphalt binders. Carbon black also increased the failure strain and stress due to the reinforcing effects. Carbon black was effective for both alleviation of chemical deterioration by UV irradiation and improvement of mechanical properties such as anti-cracking. Therefore, addition of carbon black will improve the durability of asphalt materials and asphalt pavements.

Using an aging test method, “UV Aging test by pressed thin film samples”, a straight asphalt and a modified asphalt type-II binder were examined for their aging behavior. The results confirmed that this method is effective to simulate the outdoor exposure test, and ultraviolet-rays radiation is a severe factor to the surface compared with the conditions of the Pressure Aging Vessel test.Furthermore, addition of carbon black showed the tendency to prevent from changing in the chemical fraction by aging, and to restrain the producing of carbonyl group by ultraviolet-rays radiation. Therefore, carbon black will improve the durability of asphalt materials.

Objective Rapidly destructive osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip is an uncommon subset of OA that affects mainly elderly women. Previous studies indicate that elevated levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are produced within the tissue of patients with the condition. In the present study, we sought to determine whether serum and plasma levels of MMPs and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are also elevated. Methods Blood samples were obtained from 16 patients with rapidly destructive hip OA and from 20 patients with OA before total hip arthroplasty was performed. Synovial specimens were obtained during surgery. Synovial fibroblasts that had migrated sufficiently from explants were subcultured in vitro for 72 hours after confluency, and harvested supernatants were collected. Blood, tissue samples, and fibroblasts were assayed for MMPs 1, 2, 3, and 9, and TIMPs 1 and 2 by sandwich enzyme immunoassay. Results In blood samples, the levels of MMP-3 and MMP-9 in the group with rapidly destructive hip OA were significantly higher than the normal range and were also significantly higher than those in the OA group. In tissue samples, the levels of MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-9, and TIMP-1 in the group with rapidly destructive hip OA were significantly higher than those in the OA group. Conclusion The results of this study show that serum and plasma levels of MMP-3 and MMP-9 are significantly increased in patients with rapidly destructive hip OA. Significantly large amounts of these MMPs produced in synovial tissues within the hip joint could contribute in part to elevation of blood levels. Detection of increased levels of MMP-3 and MMP-9 in patients with painful, disabling hip OA may be of diagnostic value for rapidly destructive hip OA.

Brain abnormalities were described in a patient who had experienced Sjogren-Larsson syndrome (SLS) with typical clinical signs. Examination of the brain revealed (1) accumulation of peculiar lipoid substances stained lightly with periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) in the subpial, subependymal, and perivascular glial layers, the subpial and perivascular spaces, and the white matter of the cerebrum and brainstem; (2) proliferation of perivascular macrophages containing lipofuscin-like pigments; (3) dense distribution of round or ellipsoid small bodies stained strongly with PAS in the subpial, subependymal, and perivascular glial layers and the white matter; (4) appearance of spheroid bodies in the neuropil of relay nuclei (the lateral geniculate body, pontine nuclei, inferior olivary nucleus, posterior funicular nucleus, and dentate nucleus) and the white matter; and (5) reduction of myelinated nerve fibers in the cerebral and cerebellar white matter. Six-layered neuronal cytoarchitecture was preserved in the cerebral neocortex, except for the insula where pyramidal neurons were arranged at random. The exact mechanisms remain unclear, but it is suggested that peculiar lipoid substances may accumulate in the specific regions of the brain and that neuronal and astrocytic processes may be primarily affected in SLS.

We present an autopsy case of Larsen-like syndrome with unusually severe neurologic complications. The patient, a 3-year-old girl, manifested severe psychomotor retardation, tetraplegia, and intractable partial seizures as well as multiple joint dislocations with other skeletal deformities, minor external anomalies, and laryngotracheomalacia. Neuropathological examination of the brain revealed (1) cortical dysgenesis in the bilateral perisylvian region; (2) protrusions of the brain parenchyma into the subarachnoid space, (3) abnormal arrangement of olivary neurons, (4) dilation of the lateral ventricles with subventricular gliosis and multiple glial nodules, (5) hypoplasia of the cerebral white matter with subcortical astrocytosis, and (6) necrotic change in Sommer sector of the hippocampus. There were no microscopic abnormalities in the mesenchymal tissue of the brain (i.e., vascular walls and the meninges). Cortical dysgenesis in the perisylvian region was characterized by a zonal heterotopia of pyramidal and granule neurons in the molecular layer, which clinically may be closely related to intractable partial seizures in the orofacial area. Findings 1, 2, and 3 may represent a disturbance of neuroblast migration, speculated to have occurred during the latest stage of migration (around 20-25 weeks gestation). There are few published reports describing the combination of Larsen-like syndrome and brain dysplasia. Correlation of brain dysplasia with congenital skeletal abnormalities is unclear in our patient. We speculate that systemic hypoxic-ischemic insults during the second half of gestation and/or some genetic factors might be possible causes of brain dysplasia.

Background: The abducens nucleus directly innervates the lateral rectus muscle and plays a role in controlling conjugate horizontal eye movements. Although the neuronal cytoarchitecture of the abducens nucleus has been extensively investigated in various species of vertebrates, few studies have been undertaken in humans, especially in fetuses or neonates. Design/Subjects: We examined 12 human brains from preterm infants aged 20–43postmenstrual weeks to document the histology and morphometry of the abducens nucleus. The brain was processed into celloidin-embedded serial sections stained with the Kluver–Barrera and other conventional methods. Results: The nucleus was identified as a mass of cells as early as 20weeks. Its neurons were clearly distinguished from glial cells due to droplet-like, clear nuclei containing prominent nucleoli and surrounded by a basophilic perikaryon. Neurons of various sizes and shapes were intermingled within the nucleus, although larger neurons were located towards the center of the nucleus. Immature granular or reticular Nissl bodies were seen at 20–21weeks. Tigroid, coarse Nissl bodies appeared around 28–29weeks in larger neurons, although in smaller neurons Nissl bodies were dispersed or concentrated peripherally. Morphometric results were: (1) the nuclear volume exponentially increased with age between 20 and 43weeks; (2) the histograms of neuronal profile areas showed a non-normal distribution trailing toward the right and widening with age; (3) the geometric average of neuronal profile areas increased linearly with age. Conclusion: Our study suggests that the human abducens nucleus enlarges more quickly toward the end of gestation, and comprises heterogeneous groups of neurons.

There is a strong need for the development of relatively rapid and low-cost bioassays for the determination of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs), and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dl-PCBs) in environmental and food samples. In this study, we applied a reporter gene assay using DR-EcoScreen cells (DR-cell assay), which is highly sensitive to dioxins, to the determination of PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs in fish and seafood samples. The PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs were extracted from homogenated samples (10 g) of 30 fish and shellfish, purified by clean-up procedure using a multilayered silica gel column and an alumina column, and applied to DR-cell assay. Interestingly, the bioanalytical equivalent (BEQ) values obtained from the DR-cell assay [

Summary Background The trochlear nucleus, the smallest of the extraoculomotor nuclei, is unique or even curious, because the nerve roots emerge dorsally from the superior medullary velum after decussation. Little information is available on the developmental anatomy of this nucleus in humans. Design/subjects We examined serial brain sections from 10 premature infants aged 20–39 weeks of gestation to document the histology and morphometry. Results The trochlear nucleus was composed of three parts: the rostral tip, the main body, and the caudal division. The rostral tip was a rostral continuation of the main body, being closely related to the oculomotor nucleus; the main body was enveloped by a fibrous capsule; the caudal division was a small separate cluster of neurons in the medial longitudinal fasciculus or the root fibers with individual variations. Tigroid Nissl bodies first appeared at 28 weeks in presumed motoneurons. Various sizes of motoneurons were recognized; medium-sized to small motoneurons were preferentially accumulated in the rostral tip. Among the motoneurons, presumed non-motor neurons were infrequently scattered. Morphometric analysis showed that the nuclear volume exponentially increased with age, about 15 fold over 20–39 weeks, while the average profile area of the neurons linearly increased. Statistical analysis confirmed that cell area was smallest in the rostral tip among the three parts. Conclusion Although the sample number is small in this study, it suggests that the human trochlear nucleus can be divided into three parts, and that the overall growth may be accelerated at about 30 weeks of gestation.

Morphology of the human parvocellular red nucleus (RNp) was investigated in 14 fetuses aged from 12 to 39 weeks of gestation (WG). The brains were processed into celloidin-embedded serial sections. At 12 WG, the anlage of RNp was observed as an ovoid mass of immature neurons clustering into some groups. Lobular appearance in cross-sectional images was conspicuous during the early stages (12-23 WG), particularly at rostral levels. The fasciculus retroflexus of Meynert was seen as a prominent bundle of fibers surrounded by the most rostral part of RNp. Two types of neurons were identified: large and small neurons. Large neurons were earlier observed at 16 WG, and had a polygonal or multipolar perikaryon with abundant Nissl bodies from 28 WG onwards. Small neurons later appeared among large neurons at 21 WG, and had a triangular or ovoid perikaryon with scanty Nissl bodies. The volume of RNp showed an exponential increase with age during 20-39 WG. The mean of neuronal perikaryonal areas showed a linear increase with age in both types during 16-39 WG, although the degree of change was much greater in large neurons than small neurons. The current study has clearly demonstrated the presence of two neuronal populations and their differential growth in developing human RNp.

We previously reported the effects of cyclic therapy with etidronate (CTE) on periprosthetic bone mineral density (BMD) after cementless total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study aimed to evaluate the effects of withdrawal and intervention of CTE after cementless THA. The control group consisted of 24 patients without osteoactive drugs. Sixteen patients continued on CTE (i.e., 400 mg/day oral etidronate for 2 weeks followed by 12 weeks of 500 mg/day calcium lactate, repeated every 14 weeks) for the first 12 months followed by no treatment for 18 months (early-etidronate group). Fifteen patients received no treatment for the first 18 months followed by CTE for 12 months (late-etidronate group). Periprosthetic BMD in seven regions of interest based on the zones of Gruen et al. was measured with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry at 3 weeks, 6, 12, 18, 24, and 30 months postoperatively. At 12 months after operation (off therapy point in the early-etidronate group), postoperative decreases of BMD in the early-etidronate group were significantly smaller than those in the control group in zones 1, 2, 5, 6, and 7 and those in the late-etidronate group in zones 1, 5, 6, and 7 (P < 0.05 for each). In the early-etidronate group, significant decreases in BMD were found during months 12–30 (off therapy period) after withdrawal of CTE in zones 1 and 7 (P < 0.05 for each). In the late-etidronate group, BMD increased significantly in zones 4 and 6 (P < 0.05 for each) during months 18–30 (on therapy period) after intervention trial, while in the controls, BMD decreased significantly in zone 3 (P < 0.05) over this period. At the final follow-up (30 months), BMD loss in zone 7 was significantly less in the early-etidronate group than in the other groups (P < 0.05). BMD changes in the early-etidronate group and late-etidronate group were associated with changes in biochemical bone markers.

Proximal bone resorption around the femoral stem is one of the major complications of cementless total hip arthroplasty (THA). The potential complications resulting from proximal bone resorption include femoral fracture and late stem loosening. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of cyclic therapy with etidronate on periprosthetic bone mineral density (BMD) after cementless THA. Fifty-two patients who had undergone cementless THA were randomized for this study. Group A consisted of 30 hips in 29 patients without osteoactive drugs. Group B consisted of 23 hips in 23 patients with cyclic therapy with etidronate (i.e., 400 mg/day of oral etidronate for 2 weeks followed by 12 weeks of 500 mg/day of calcium lactate and repeated every 14 weeks), one of whom was excluded from the study because of side effects attributed to the drug. Periprosthetic BMD in seven regions of interest based on the zones of Gruen et al. (Clin. Orthop. 141 (1979), 17-27) was measured with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) at 3 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively. The postoperative decreases of BMD in group B were significantly lower than those in group A in zones 1 and 7 (P0.05 and P0.05, respectively) at 6 months and in zones 1, 2, 6, and 7 (P0.05, P0.05, P0.05, and P0.001, respectively) at 12 months. The BMD change appeared to be stabilized at 6 months in all zones in group B, while in group A there was a progressive decrease of average BMD (6.1%) in zone 7 between 6 months and 12 months. These findings suggested that cyclic therapy with etidronate may help to reduce the resorptive changes in the proximal part of the femur after cementless THA. Further follow-up study with larger populations will be required to define the potential efficacy of intermittent cyclic etidronate therapy on postoperative bone loss.

The neuropathological findings in an autopsy case of thanatophoric dysplasia (TD) with serial sections of the brain are described here. This patient was a female infant, born at 33 weeks gestation, who died on day 1. Skeletal anomalies, consisting of short limbs, a small thorax, short ribs, thick cortical vertebral body substance and sternum substance, and hypoplastic lungs, were compatible with typical phenotypic features of TD. The brain weighed 370 g, showing a cloverleaf megalencephaly. A computerized 3-D reconstruction technique visualized clearly abnormal deep sulci arranged perpendicular to the neuraxis on the inferior surface of the temporal lobe, and peculiar configurational changes of the lateral ventricle. In particular, the inferior horn showed an unusual complex form. Dysgenetic changes were largely located in the anterior temporal lobe as follows: cortical polymicrogyria; leptomeningeal heterotopia with discontinuity of the subpial basement membrane; serpentine arrangement of pyramidal cells of the cornu ammonis (CA)1 of the hippocampus; hypoplastic dentate gyrus; hyperplasia of the amygdaloid body; and heterotopic nodules of neuroblasts or glioblasts in the periventricular white matter. Apart from the temporal lobe, the cerebral pia mater showed unusual fusion of two facing sheets in a sulcus and ectopia of nerve cells, and the cerebellar vermis was small. The findings observed here indicate that overgrowth and lack of growth can coexist in the TD brain, suggesting that some interaction(s) between the mesenchyme and the nervous tissue may play a role in normal differentiation of these two cell lines.

Background: Total hip arthroplasty changes the levels of stress within the proximal part of the femur, and the femur remodels adjacent to the prosthesis. The stem size and the initial bone-mineral density around the distal portion of the stem affect postoperative bone-remodeling after the insertion of a fully porous-coated metal-cancellous prosthesis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of the extent of porous coating of this prosthesis on femoral bone-remodeling. Methods: A longitudinal examination of sixty-one hips in fifty-four patients was performed. Thirty-one hips in twenty-seven patients with a fully porous-coated stem (Group A) and thirty hips in twenty-seven patients with a proximally porous-coated stem (Group B) were followed for twenty-four to thirty months. Periprosthetic bone-mineral density was measured with dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry at specific intervals after the operation. Results: In both groups, the greatest loss of bone-mineral density, compared with the initial (three-week) value, was approximately 20 percent in zone 7 at twelve to eighteen months. In other zones, bone-remodeling appeared to cease by twelve months. At the last follow-up evaluation, the loss of bone-mineral density in the distal and middle regions in Group A was significantly greater than that in Group B (p < 0.01 for zone 3 and p < 0.05 for zone 6). In contrast, with the numbers available, there were no significant differences in loss of bone-mineral density in the proximal regions (zones 1 and 7) between the two groups at any follow-up period. Conclusions: The extent of porous coating affects bone-remodeling in the distal periprosthetic region rather than in the proximal region. The results in the present report are specific to the particular implants that were studied.

4 hemodialysis patients with failed bipolar hip prostheses underwent 6 revision arthroplasties. Their average age was 55 years, the average duration of hemodialysis was 14 years and the average interval from the primary arthroplasty to revision was 7 years. The interface membranes revealed amyloid deposits in all specimens. There were few polyethylene wear particles, and cement debris or foreign body reactions were rare. It appears that amyloid may cause osteolysis and early prosthetic loosening.

SUMMARY Anatomical development of the human mesencephalic trigeminal nucleus was assessed quantitatively and qualitatively, using serial sections of brains, with the help of a computer-assisted image-analyser. Five fetuses at 16, 18, 21, 23 and 27 weeks of gestation; five neonates at 30, 32, 33, 35 and 40 weeks of gestation; a two-month-old infant and a 63-year-old adult were studied. Morphometric analyses of the mesencephalic trigeminal nucleus revealed that orocaudal columnar length and neuronal areas gradually increased with gestational age. Diversity of neuronal areas appeared after 32 weeks of gestation, but neuronal numbers and shapes showed little change throughout prenatal and postnatal life. ReSUMe Developpement du noyau trigemine mesencephalique humain: etude morphometrique Le developpement anatomique du noyau trigemine mesencephalique humain fut apprecie quantitativement et qualitativement a l'aide de sections seriees du cerveau, en utilisant un analyseur d'images assiste par ordinateur. Cinq foetus a 16, 18, 21, 23 et 27 semaines de gestation; cinq nouveaux-nes a 30, 32, 33, 35 et 40 semaines de gestation; un nourrisson de deux mois et un adulte de 63 ans ont ete etudies. Les analyses morphometriques du noyau trigemine mesencephalique ont revele que la longueur colonnaire orocaudale et les aires neuronales s'accroissaient progressivement avec l'âge de gestation. La diversite des aires neuronales apparaissait apres 32 semaines de gestation mais le nombre de neurones presentait tres peu de modifications au cours de la vie pre-natale et post-natale. ZUSAMMENFASSUNG Entwicklung des mesenzephalen Trigeminuskerns beim Menschen: eine morphometrische Studie Anhand von Serienschnitten des Gehirns wurde die anatomische Entwicklung des mesenzephalen Trigeminuskerns beim Menschen qualitativ mit Hilfe einer komputergestutzten Bildauswertung untersucht. Es wurden funf Feten mit einem Gestationsalter von 16, 18, 21, 23 und 27 Wochen, funf Neugeborene im Gestationsalter von 30, 32, 33, 35 und 40 Wochen, ein zwei Monate alter Saugling und ein 63-jahriger Erwachsener untersucht. Die morphometrischen Analysen des mesenzephalen Trigeminuskerns ergaben, daβ die orocaudale Schenkellange und die neuronalen Bereiche mit dem Gestationsalter zunehmen. Die Differenzierung der neuronalen Bereiche begann nach der 32. Gestationswoche, aber die Zahl und Form der Neurone anderten sich wahrend des pra und postnatalen Lebens kaum. RESUMEN Desarrollo del nucleo trigemino mesencefalico humano: estudio morfologico El desarrollo anatomico del nucleo trigemino mesencefalico humano fue evaluado cuantitativamente y cualitativamente utilizando secciones seriadas de cerebros, con la a ayuda de un analizador de imagenes asistido por und computadora. Cinco fetos de 16, 18, 21, 23 y 27 semanas de gestacion; cinco recien nacidos de 30, 32, 33, 35 y 40 semanas de gestacion; un lactante de dos meses de edad y un adulto de 63 afios, fueron objeto de estudio. El analisis morfologico del nucleo trigemino mesencefalico revelo que la longitud columnar orocaudal y las areas neuronales aumentaban gradualmente con la edad gestacional. Una diversidad de areas neuronales aparecia despues de las 32 semanas de gestacion pero el numero de neuronas y sus formas mostraban pocos cambios a lo largo de la vida pre- y postnatal.

ウンシュウミカン幼木園においてアゲハ卵の空間分布を経時的に調査し,母蝶の産卵行動の観察に基づいて空間分布の成立過程を明らかにした。ほ場に飛来した母蝶は,ジクザグまたは直線的に一方向に移行しながら産卵し,途中ですでに訪問した木にもどることはまれであった。しかし,ほ場に侵入直後には同一の木に続けて産卵する習性を有すること,および環境に異質性が存在したために,多数個体による産卵の累積結果である卵の空間分布は周年集中的であった。環境の異質性をもたらした要因の1つは,木毎の新葉数の違いであった。木当り新葉数の変動係数は萠芽初期に大きく,展葉がすすむとともに低下した。このため,春芽の展葉期には,時間の経過にともなって卵の分布集中度は低下した。しかし,夏・秋芽の展葉期には準新葉が環境を一様化していたと考えられ,分布の集中度はどの時期も低かった。調査結果の考察に基づいて,より広いミカン園におけるアゲハ卵の空間分布の特性を予測した。

The morphometric development of the human cerebellar nuclei was examined in 9 fetuses (16–40 weeks of gestation; WG) an infant (2 months old) and 2 adults (16 and 63 years old). With the morphological observation of serial sections of the brain containing the cerebellar nuclei, the authors measured sections to get several morphometric parameters: the volume of nuclear column and number, packing density and cell body area of neurons. Each nucleus (dentate emboliform, globose and fastigial nucleus) was recognized even at 16 WG. Nerve cells containing Nissl bodies were observed in all nuclei after 23 WG. Degenerative changes were detected in some neurons for every nucleus at 21 and 23 WG. Three stages were observed in the developmental course of nuclear volume and neuronal packing density: the primary or undifferentiated stage at 16 WG, the secondary stage with variability at 21–32 WG and the tertiary stage with monotonous increase (nuclear volume) or gradual decrease (neuronal packing density) after 35 WG. No significant correlation between neuronal number and gestational age was noticed for every nucleus. The analysis of cell body area (neuronal size) demonstrated that the dentate neurons developed after the intermediate or fastigial neurons. It is concluded that there is a critical period between slightly before 20 WG and slightly after 30 WG, matched with the secondary stage in the development of the cerebellar nuclei.

In the previous paper, sliding wear properties of oxide ceramics was evaluted using an indentation fracture model in which the effect of roughness at the frictional surface was assessed. This model was tested for non-oxide ceramics at various vertical load, and the transition of wear properties was studied with a pin-on-disk tester using SiC, Al2O3 and ZrO2 as pin, and SiC, Si3N4 and Al2O3 as disk. Wear increased by more than ten times depending on the combination of pin and disk materials. When the frictional surface was smoothed by the increased vertical load, the wear was independent of the load. To explain this phenomenon, an equation was derived to estimate quantitatively the effect of a roughness at the frictional surface on wear. Hence, the wear transition was estimated for the sliding surface, of which roughness depends on the vertical load. However, the effect of material combination on the wear was not able to be explained by this equation completely. This result suggested that the transition of wear by material combination was took place by the changed wear mechanism.

Using the simple thin layer polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, serum alkaline phosphatase could be separated 5 isozyme bands in various digestive diseases, consisting of 54 cases of gastric cancer, 11 of colonic cancer, 12 of hepatoma, 4 of cholangioma, 14 of pancreatic cancer, 81 of benign hepatobilliary diseases, 13 of cancers of other organs and 61 of control. The obtained results were as follows: 1) The electrophoretic analysis of serum alkaline phosphatase showed the specific band remaining at the origin, already reported as "alkaline phosphatase O", in primary and metastatic cancer of the liver and cholelithiasis. On the contrary, alkaline phosphatase O was never found in gastric and colonic cancer without cholelithiasis. On the contrary, alkaline phosphatase O was never found in gastric and colonic cancer without cancerous metastasis to the liver, and it was also inclined to be positive with the progress of liver metastasis among them. 2) Intestinal alkaline phosphatase was usually found in higher frequency in blood group B and O than in the others, and it was apt to disappear in gastric or colonic cancer with an exacerbation of its cancerous lesions. 3) Heat-stable alkaline phosphatase was found in 10% of gastric or colonic cancer, all of which were histologically proved to be well differentiated adenocarcinoma.