Kinetics of dextran-independent α-(1→3)-glucan synthesis by Streptococcus sobrinus glucosyltransferase I.

Glucosyltransferase (GTF)-I from cariogenic Streptococcus sobrinus elongates the α-(1→3)-linked glucose polymer branches on the primer dextran bound to the C-terminal glucan-binding domain. We investigated the GTF-I-catalyzed glucan synthesis reaction in the absence of the primer dextran. The time course of saccharide production during dextran-independent glucan synthesis from sucrose was analyzed.

[Suppression of experimental inflammation by anti-fungal agent liranaftate in mice].

To evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of the thiocarbamate antifungal agent liranaftate, the edema and the neutrophil accumulation detected by the activity of neutrophil marker enzyme, myeloperoxidase (MPO), were examined following application of liranaftate to mouse ears with inflammation induced by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA). Topical 20 microl administration of liranaftate in a dose-range between 1-4% suppressed the increase in ear thickness 6 hr after PMA application dose-dependently. Similarly, it decreased the weight increase of an ear section after 24 hr dose-dependently.

Suppression of anti-Candida activity of macrophages by a quorum-sensing molecule, farnesol, through induction of oxidative stress.

Farnesol is well known as a quorum-sensing molecule of Candida albicans. To assess the pathological function of farnesol, its effects on macrophage viability and functions including growth inhibitory activities against C. albicans were examined in vitro.

Prevalence and risk factors of urinary incontinence and its influence on the quality of life of Japanese women.

Urinary incontinence is a common problem as women age. The aims of this study were to assess the prevalence and risk factors of urinary incontinence and their impact on the quality of life of working Japanese women. In this cross-sectional study, 975 women completed the Urogenital Distress Inventory-6, the Short Form (SF)-36 Health Survey, and the King's Health Questionnaire.

[Volunteers' recognition of problems in meal distribution service and their expectation for information concerning health and welfare in less-favoured areas].

Objective: This study aimed to clarify problems perceived by volunteers of a meal distribution service (MDS) in Less-Favoured Areas and the content of information expected to be provided by the administration and social welfare council.

Methods: We chose three municipalities (A, B, and C) with a population of less than 4,000 and an elderly population rate of 25% or higher. Volunteers involved in MDS in the municipalities were 28, 11, and 22 people in A, B, and C, respectively.