Background: Psychological stress or life events might significantly decrease neutrophil function in elderly individuals and lead to infectious diseases. However, relationships between these factors have not been examined in detail. We investigated the relationships between neutrophil function measured using the nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction test and measurements of psychological stress and life events among 81 men aged over 60 years.
Results: The numbers and scores for life events were significantly higher (p<0.01, respectively) in a group with values reflecting phagocytosis below the median than in a control group.
Conclusions: Chronic psychological stress due to life events decreases neutrophil functions among elderly men.

Objectives: In Korea, long-term care insurance has been provided to the elderly since 2008. We conducted a health survey of the elderly in a nursing home in Korea from 2007 to 2010. Since the introduction of the insurance system, many of the elderly have started using wheelchairs. We aimed to determine the effect of using wheelchairs on mental health index, serum biochemical parameters, and neutrophil function.<br> Methods: The subjects were 32 elderly persons (mean age: 74.44±5.79 years) who could walk unaided in 2007 and were not bedridden until 2010. We classified the subjects into the walking group (subjects could walk unaided or with a cane until 2010; 10 men, 9 women) and the wheelchair group (subjects required the use of a wheelchair from 2007 to 2010; 2 men, 11 women).<br> We determined stress score, stress tolerance, subjective well-being score in accordance with the Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale, and serum biochemical parameters. We also analyzed oxidant production and phagocytosis by neutrophils and estimated the balance between oxidant production and phagocytosis by correlation analysis.<br> Results: Increases in the stress tolerance of the wheelchair group in 2008 and 2009 and the subjective well-being score in 2009 in the survey were observed. However, in 2010, the stress tolerance and the subjective well-being score decreased to the levels in 2007. In 2010, the levels of serum albumin and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol of the wheelchair group were significantly lower than those of the walking group, and the balance between phagocytosis and oxidant production in the wheelchair group improved.<br>

Objective: In this study, we investigated the relationships of neutrophil functions with lifestyle factors (namely, subjective stress, exercise habits, smoking habits, alcohol-drinking habits, and self-perceived status health) and health behavior in the Chinese urban elderly.<br> Methods: We performed a health survey of the elderly aged 65 years or older living in Tianjin. The subjects were 42 males (69.1±4.1 years old) and 41 females (69.1±4.1 years old). Investigations of subjective stress, exercise habits, smoking habits, alcohol-drinking habits, and self-perceived health status were performed. The phagocytosis and superoxide productivity of neutrophils were measured by the nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction method. In addition, leukocyte count and serum total protein (TP) level were examined.<br> Results: The investigations revealed the associations of health behavior (p<0.05) and self-perceived health (p<0.10) with the balance between phagocytosis and subsequent superoxide production.<br> Conclusions: The present study revealed that there were correlations of neutrophil functions with lifestyle factors (subjective stress, exercise habits, smoking habits, alcohol-drinking habits, and self-perceived status health) and health behavior in the Chinese urban elderly.<br>

目的:中国都市部高齢者のメタボリックシンドローム(MS)の実態と日常生活歩数との関連を明らかにすることを目的とした.対象:2004年3月の研究開始時点に中国天津市南開区にあるコミュニティ病院に登録された65歳以上の地域住民高齢者9,167人のうち,200名が健診と質問票調査に参加した.2005年2月に同じ健診を実施した.質問票調査と2回の健診を受け,かつ1年間の平均歩数を測定できた90名を解析対象とした.方法:質問票調査と健診を受けた対象者全員(200名)に万歩計を配布し,1週のうち任意の3日間,起床から就寝までの1日の歩数を1年間継続して記入するよう依頼した.この総歩数を記録日数で割った1年間の1日平均歩数を今回の日常生活歩数とした.MSの診断基準は中国のCDS(Chinese Diabetes Society 2004)に従い,構成因子5因子中3因子以上該当する者をMSとした.2004年と2005年の健診で2回ともMSと診断されなかった高齢者40名を非MS群とし,2回あるいは1回MSと診断された50名をMS群とした.解析には統計ソフトSPSS11.0Jを使用した.結果:対象90名は,男性49名,女性41名,平均年齢(±SD)70.2(±4.6歳,年間の1日平均歩数(以下歩数)(±SD)は5509(±3480であった.MS群(歩数4811±2580)と非MS群(歩数6380±4226)の歩数には有意な差が認められた(p=0.043).MS構成因子に全く該当しないグループの歩数は該当数1〜4のグループより有意に多かった(p=0.004).また,肥満群(BMI≧25.0)の歩数は正常群(BMI<25.0)より有意に少なく(p=0.004),拡張期血圧(DBP)≧90mmHg群の歩数はDBP<90mmHg群より有意に少なかった(p=0.045).歩数のカットポイントを各々5000歩,6000歩,7000歩,8000歩として2カテゴリ化し,MS構成因子との関連を見たところ,6000歩以上では肥満と,8000歩では肥満および拡張期高血圧が有意な関連が認められた.性,年齢を調整した多重ロジスティック解析の結果,歩数5000以上で肥満のリスク,歩数8000以上で肥満と拡張期高血圧のリスクが有意に低かった.結論:中国高齢者で日常身体活動量の客観的指標である日常生活歩数はMSと関連があることが示された.特に1日平均歩数5000以上で肥満,8000歩以上で肥満と拡張期高血圧のリスクが低いことが示された.

Cortisol secretion after awakening, an index of hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis activity, appears to be related to psychosocial stressors, or to symptoms caused by psychosocial stressors. The relationship between the quality, duration, and magnitude of psychosocial factors and cortisol secretion is however, unclear. Therefore, the effect of episodic stress associated with writing a graduation thesis on cortisol secretion after awakening was investigated. Saliva samples were collected from 10 undergraduate students at awakening, and 30, 45, and 60 min after awakening 1 month, 2 weeks, and a few days before the thesis submission and 1 week after the submission. They also completed the Short form of Profile of Moods Scale (POMS-S) on the night before each sampling. Results indicated that cortisol levels were higher a few days before the thesis submission compared to 1 month before submission. Scores of "Fatigue" and "Tension-Anxiety" in POMS-S were also higher a few days before submission. These results suggest that episodic stress associated with writing a graduation thesis caused an increase in cortisol levels after awakening. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Cortisol secretion after awakening, an index of hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis activity, appears to be related to psychosocial stressors, or to symptoms caused by psychosocial stressors. The relationship between the quality, duration, and magnitude of psychosocial factors and cortisol secretion is however, unclear. Therefore, the effect of episodic stress associated with writing a graduation thesis on cortisol secretion after awakening was investigated. Saliva samples were collected from 10 undergraduate students at awakening, and 30, 45, and 60 min after awakening 1 month, 2 weeks, and a few days before the thesis submission and 1 week after the submission. They also completed the Short form of Profile of Moods Scale (POMS-S) on the night before each sampling. Results indicated that cortisol levels were higher a few days before the thesis submission compared to 1 month before submission. Scores of "Fatigue" and "Tension-Anxiety" in POMS-S were also higher a few days before submission. These results suggest that episodic stress associated with writing a graduation thesis caused an increase in cortisol levels after awakening. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Background: Although the number of circulating immune cells is subject to high-amplitude circadian rhythms, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Methods: To determine whether intact CLOCK protein is required for the circadian changes in peripheral blood cells, we examined circulating white (WBC) and red (RBC) blood cells in homozygous Clock mutant mice. Results: Daytime increases in total WBC and lymphocytes were suppressed and slightly phase-delayed along with plasma corticosterone levels in Clock mutant mice. The peak RBC rhythm was significantly reduced and phase-advanced in the Clock mutants. Anatomical examination revealed hemoglobin-rich, swollen red spleens in Clock mutant mice, suggesting RBC accumulation. Conclusion: Our results suggest that endogenous clock-regulated circadian corticosterone secretion from the adrenal gland is involved in the effect of a Clock mutation on daily profiles of circulating WBC. However, intact CLOCK seems unnecessary for generating the rhythm of corticosterone secretion in mice. Our results also suggest that CLOCK is involved in discharge of RBC from the spleen. © 2006 Oishi et al
licensee Biomed Central Ltd.

Background: Although the number of circulating immune cells is subject to high-amplitude circadian rhythms, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Methods: To determine whether intact CLOCK protein is required for the circadian changes in peripheral blood cells, we examined circulating white (WBC) and red (RBC) blood cells in homozygous Clock mutant mice. Results: Daytime increases in total WBC and lymphocytes were suppressed and slightly phase-delayed along with plasma corticosterone levels in Clock mutant mice. The peak RBC rhythm was significantly reduced and phase-advanced in the Clock mutants. Anatomical examination revealed hemoglobin-rich, swollen red spleens in Clock mutant mice, suggesting RBC accumulation. Conclusion: Our results suggest that endogenous clock-regulated circadian corticosterone secretion from the adrenal gland is involved in the effect of a Clock mutation on daily profiles of circulating WBC. However, intact CLOCK seems unnecessary for generating the rhythm of corticosterone secretion in mice. Our results also suggest that CLOCK is involved in discharge of RBC from the spleen. © 2006 Oishi et al
licensee Biomed Central Ltd.

To understand light-induced immune modulation in vivo, we evaluated the effect of nocturnal light exposure on splenic natural killer (NK) cell activity in rats. Nocturnal increases in the number and cytotoxic activity of NK cells were significantly suppressed under extended light exposure. Nocturnal increases in serum corticosterone levels were also suppressed by light exposure, suggesting that the light exposure-induced decrease in NK cell functions was not due to stress-induced glucocorticoid secretion in rats. These results suggest that nocturnal light exposure could profoundly affect NK cell functions perhaps through eye-brain hormonal modulation.

To understand light-induced immune modulation in vivo, we evaluated the effect of nocturnal light exposure on splenic natural killer (NK) cell activity in rats. Nocturnal increases in the number and cytotoxic activity of NK cells were significantly suppressed under extended light exposure. Nocturnal increases in serum corticosterone levels were also suppressed by light exposure, suggesting that the light exposure-induced decrease in NK cell functions was not due to stress-induced glucocorticoid secretion in rats. These results suggest that nocturnal light exposure could profoundly affect NK cell functions perhaps through eye-brain hormonal modulation.

To understand light-induced immune modulation in vivo, we evaluated the effect of nocturnal light exposure on splenic natural killer (NK) cell activity in rats. Nocturnal increases in the number and cytotoxic activity of NK cells were significantly suppressed under extended light exposure. Nocturnal increases in serum corticosterone levels were also suppressed by light exposure, suggesting that the light exposure-induced decrease in NK cell functions was not due to stress-induced glucocorticoid secretion in rats. These results suggest that nocturnal light exposure could profoundly affect NK cell functions perhaps through eye-brain hormonal modulation.

To understand light-induced immune modulation in vivo, we evaluated the effect of nocturnal light exposure on splenic natural killer (NK) cell activity in rats. Nocturnal increases in the number and cytotoxic activity of NK cells were significantly suppressed under extended light exposure. Nocturnal increases in serum corticosterone levels were also suppressed by light exposure, suggesting that the light exposure-induced decrease in NK cell functions was not due to stress-induced glucocorticoid secretion in rats. These results suggest that nocturnal light exposure could profoundly affect NK cell functions perhaps through eye-brain hormonal modulation.

The Clock gene is a core component of the cireadian clock in mammals. We show here that serum levels of triglyceride and free fatty acid were significantly lower in circadian Clock mutant ICR than in wild-type control mice, whereas total cholesterol and glucose levels did not differ. Moreover, an increase in body weight induced by a high-fat diet was attenuated in homozygous Clock mutant mice. We also found that dietary fat absorption was extremely impaired in Clock mutant mice. Circathan expressions of cholecystokinin-A (CCK-A) receptor and lipase mRNAs were damped in the pancreas of Clock mutant mice. We therefore showed that a Clock mutation attenuates obesity induced by a high-fat diet in mice with an ICR background through impaired dietary fat absorption. Our results suggest that circadian clock molecules play an important role in lipid homeostasis in mammals. (c) 2005 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The Clock gene is a core component of the cireadian clock in mammals. We show here that serum levels of triglyceride and free fatty acid were significantly lower in circadian Clock mutant ICR than in wild-type control mice, whereas total cholesterol and glucose levels did not differ. Moreover, an increase in body weight induced by a high-fat diet was attenuated in homozygous Clock mutant mice. We also found that dietary fat absorption was extremely impaired in Clock mutant mice. Circathan expressions of cholecystokinin-A (CCK-A) receptor and lipase mRNAs were damped in the pancreas of Clock mutant mice. We therefore showed that a Clock mutation attenuates obesity induced by a high-fat diet in mice with an ICR background through impaired dietary fat absorption. Our results suggest that circadian clock molecules play an important role in lipid homeostasis in mammals. (c) 2005 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Objective: Oral health is very important particularly for elderly to live happily. The purpose of this study is to clarify the relationship between lifestyle and oral health in Chinese elderly.<br>Methods: The subjects were 96 men (mean±SD: 70.1±4.9) and 92 women (70.7±5.4). Oral health status was evaluated according to the numbers of remaining, intact, treated, and untreated teeth and score in WHO's CPI code. By carrying out a questionnaire survey, we evaluated lifestyle factors, such as stress (SCLS), smoking habits, drinking habit, sleeping hours, sports, snack habit, and tooth brushing habit. Logistic regression analysis was used in analyzing the data.<br>Results: By multi-logistic regression analysis, men who smoke were more likely to have a lower CPI score than those who do not {odds ratio (OR)=4.69, 95% confidence interval (95% CI)=0.79-27.89, p<.10}. Men who brush their teeth less than once a day are less likely to have a lower CPI score than those who brush their teeth more than twice a day (OR=0.33, 95% CI=0.09-1.22, p<.10). On the other hand, women who experience much stress are more likely to have a lower CPI score than women who experience little stress (OR=5.59, 95% CI=1.29-24.15, p<.05).<br>Conclusions: The study indicated that smoking may affect oral health conditions in men, whereas stress may affect oral health conditions in women. The reduction in stress and abstinence from smoking are important in maintaining good oral health in Chinese elderly.

The Clock gene is a core component of the cireadian clock in mammals. We show here that serum levels of triglyceride and free fatty acid were significantly lower in circadian Clock mutant ICR than in wild-type control mice, whereas total cholesterol and glucose levels did not differ. Moreover, an increase in body weight induced by a high-fat diet was attenuated in homozygous Clock mutant mice. We also found that dietary fat absorption was extremely impaired in Clock mutant mice. Circathan expressions of cholecystokinin-A (CCK-A) receptor and lipase mRNAs were damped in the pancreas of Clock mutant mice. We therefore showed that a Clock mutation attenuates obesity induced by a high-fat diet in mice with an ICR background through impaired dietary fat absorption. Our results suggest that circadian clock molecules play an important role in lipid homeostasis in mammals. (c) 2005 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The Clock gene is a core component of the cireadian clock in mammals. We show here that serum levels of triglyceride and free fatty acid were significantly lower in circadian Clock mutant ICR than in wild-type control mice, whereas total cholesterol and glucose levels did not differ. Moreover, an increase in body weight induced by a high-fat diet was attenuated in homozygous Clock mutant mice. We also found that dietary fat absorption was extremely impaired in Clock mutant mice. Circathan expressions of cholecystokinin-A (CCK-A) receptor and lipase mRNAs were damped in the pancreas of Clock mutant mice. We therefore showed that a Clock mutation attenuates obesity induced by a high-fat diet in mice with an ICR background through impaired dietary fat absorption. Our results suggest that circadian clock molecules play an important role in lipid homeostasis in mammals. (c) 2005 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

In order to understand the behaviors of soluble chemical species at the confluence of the river water and water supply process, the Watarase, Tone, and Edo River System was studied in regard to the inorganic ion. This river system starts from the base of the Ashio copper mine and ends at Tokyo Bay. Along the rivers, there are 14 local municipalities in Gunma, Saitama, Ibaragi and Chiba Prefectures, as well as Tokyo . This area is center of the Kanto plain and includes the main source of water pollution from human activities . Moreover, the water of the river system is the source water for human activities in Kanto area. Also, we analyzed some chemical species to clarify water environmental status and outline the problems of water environment in research area. Water samples from 18 river sites and 42 water faucets at public facilities from Watarase, Tone, and Edo basin which include 14 local municipalities were collected and the degree of contamination was analyzed. The chemical species in river and top wa er were analyzed by ion chromatograph. Overall, it was thought that the Cl- of river water in the Watarase, Tone, Edo Basin contributed more large effect to water pollution than NO₃²- did . It was revealed the present water filtration plant procedures change the mineral balance of water. But, a good correlation in some ion elements between the river and tap water was found . For example, the correlation coefficients of Mg²+ and Ca²+ between them were 0 .912 and 0.969, respec tively. Also, it was confirmed the concentrations of Ca²+ and Na+ showed characteristic changes as the functions of location. These results may be important in the understanding of distribution behaviors of ionic chemical elements in this area.

Objectives: The chlorination of river water in purification plants is known to produce carcinogens such as trihalomethanes (THMs). We studied the river system of the Watarase, Tone, and Edo Rivers in regard to the formation of THMs. This river system starts from the base of the Ashio copper mine and ends at Tokyo Bay. Along the rivers, there are 14 local municipalities in Gunma, Saitama, Ibaragi and Chiba Prefectures, as well as Tokyo. This area is the center of the Kanto plain and includes the main sources of water pollution from human activities. We also analyzed various chemicals in river water and tap water to clarify the status of the water environment, and we outline the problems of the water environment in the research area (Fig. 1).<br>Methods: Water samples were taken from 18 river sites and 42 water faucets at public facilities in 14 local municipalities. We analyzed samples for volatile organic compounds such as THMs, by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and evaluations of chemical oxygen demand (COD) were made with reference to Japanese drinking water quality standards.<br>Results: Concentrations of THMs in the downstream tap water samples were higher than those in the samples from the upperstream. This tendency was similar to the COD of the river water samples, but no correlation between the concentration of THMs in tap water and the COD in tap water sources was found. In tap water of local government C, trichloroethylene was detected.<br>Conclusions: The current findings suggest that the present water filtration plant procedures are not sufficient to remove some hazardous chemicals from the source water. Moreover, it was confirmed that the water filtration produced THMs. Also, trichloroethylene was detected from the water environment in the research area, suggesting that pollution of the water environment continues.

CLOCK is a positive component of a transcription/ translation-based negative feedback loop of the central circadian oscillator in the suprachiasmatic nucleus in mammals. To examine CLOCK-regulated circadian transcription in peripheral tissues, we performed microarray analyses using liver RNA isolated from Clock mutant mice. We also compared expression profiles with those of Cryptochromes (Cry1 and Cry2) double knockout mice. We identified more than 100 genes that fluctuated from day to night and of which expression levels were decreased in Clock mutant mice. In Cry-deficient mice, the expression levels of most CLOCK-regulated genes were elevated to the upper range of normal oscillation. Most of the screened genes had a CLOCK/BMAL1 binding site (E box) in the 5'-flanking region. We found that CLOCK was absolutely concerned with the circadian transcription of one type of liver genes ( such as DBP, TEF, and Usp2) and partially with another ( such as mPer1, mPer2, mDec1, Nocturnin, P450 oxidoreductase, and FKBP51) because the latter were damped but remained rhythmic in the mutant mice. Our results showed that CLOCK and CRY proteins are involved in the transcriptional regulation of many circadian output genes in the mouse liver. In addition to being a core component of the negative feedback loop that drives the circadian oscillator, CLOCK also appears to be involved in various physiological functions such as cell cycle, lipid metabolism, immune functions, and proteolysis in peripheral tissues.

CLOCK is a positive component of a transcription/ translation-based negative feedback loop of the central circadian oscillator in the suprachiasmatic nucleus in mammals. To examine CLOCK-regulated circadian transcription in peripheral tissues, we performed microarray analyses using liver RNA isolated from Clock mutant mice. We also compared expression profiles with those of Cryptochromes (Cry1 and Cry2) double knockout mice. We identified more than 100 genes that fluctuated from day to night and of which expression levels were decreased in Clock mutant mice. In Cry-deficient mice, the expression levels of most CLOCK-regulated genes were elevated to the upper range of normal oscillation. Most of the screened genes had a CLOCK/BMAL1 binding site (E box) in the 5'-flanking region. We found that CLOCK was absolutely concerned with the circadian transcription of one type of liver genes ( such as DBP, TEF, and Usp2) and partially with another ( such as mPer1, mPer2, mDec1, Nocturnin, P450 oxidoreductase, and FKBP51) because the latter were damped but remained rhythmic in the mutant mice. Our results showed that CLOCK and CRY proteins are involved in the transcriptional regulation of many circadian output genes in the mouse liver. In addition to being a core component of the negative feedback loop that drives the circadian oscillator, CLOCK also appears to be involved in various physiological functions such as cell cycle, lipid metabolism, immune functions, and proteolysis in peripheral tissues.

To study the effects of different types or durations of stressors on immune functions, male Fischer rats were exposed to chronic physical (electric foot shock) or psychological (non-foot shock) stress induced in the communication box. Superoxide production by alveolar macrophages (AMs), mitogen-induced splenic lymphocyte proliferation, and splenic natural killer (NK) cell cytolysis were examined in vitro. Repeated exposure to physical stress suppressed superoxide production by AMs (-58%, p &lt; 0.05 for opsonized zymosan (OZ) and -51%, p &lt; 0.05 for phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)), although psychological stress suppressed superoxide production after 24 h of repeated exposures (-40%, p &lt; 0.05 for OZ and -47%, p &lt; 0.05 for PMA). Acute suppression of the blastic response of splenic lymphocytes was only found in the physical stress group (p &lt; 0.05), although the chronic effects were only found in the psychological stress group (p &lt; 0.05). NK cell activity was suppressed immediately after the acute physical stress (-30%, p &lt; 0.05), but no effects were found in the psychological stress group. These results underline the importance of distinguishing between physical versus psychological stressors when examining the effects of stress on immune functions.

To study the effects of different types or durations of stressors on immune functions, male Fischer rats were exposed to chronic physical (electric foot shock) or psychological (non-foot shock) stress induced in the communication box. Superoxide production by alveolar macrophages (AMs), mitogen-induced splenic lymphocyte proliferation, and splenic natural killer (NK) cell cytolysis were examined in vitro. Repeated exposure to physical stress suppressed superoxide production by AMs (-58%, p &lt; 0.05 for opsonized zymosan (OZ) and -51%, p &lt; 0.05 for phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)), although psychological stress suppressed superoxide production after 24 h of repeated exposures (-40%, p &lt; 0.05 for OZ and -47%, p &lt; 0.05 for PMA). Acute suppression of the blastic response of splenic lymphocytes was only found in the physical stress group (p &lt; 0.05), although the chronic effects were only found in the psychological stress group (p &lt; 0.05). NK cell activity was suppressed immediately after the acute physical stress (-30%, p &lt; 0.05), but no effects were found in the psychological stress group. These results underline the importance of distinguishing between physical versus psychological stressors when examining the effects of stress on immune functions.

It is known that interleukin (IL)-12 p70 promotes the differentiation of type-1 helper T (Th1) cells, which produce type-1 cytokines such as IL-2 and interferon (IFN), thereby supporting cellular immunity, whereas IL-12 p40 acts as an antagonist of IL-12 p70. In contrast, IL-4 and IL-6 promote the differentiation of Th2 cells, which produce type-2 cytokines IL-4, IL-6 and IL-10, induce humoral immunity and are involved in allergic reactions. Exhaustive exercise causes the suppression of T lymphocyte activity while asthmatic and allergic diseases are subclinically more prevalent in athletes. One of the mechanisms behind these observations might be a lower type-1 and higher type-2 cytokine balance, which we previously demonstrated to occur after exhaustive exercise. In the present study, we investigated the type-1/type-2 cytokine balance by measuring plasma concentrations of IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and IFN-gamma with microparticle-based flow cytometric technology. IL-5, IL-6 and IL-13 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). IL-12 p40 and p70 were measured separately, also by ELISA. Plasma IL-12 p40 concentration rose significantly after maximal exercise and to an even greater extent after a marathon race. Conversely, plasma IL-12 p70 could not be detected even using two different assays. The marathon race caused a marked increase in the plasma concentrations of IL-6 and IL-10. Their responses were correlated (r=0.78, p&lt;0.01), indicating that IL-6 is an inducer of IL-10, and may partly induce the type-1 &lt; type-2 cytokine balance. With the exception of one study involving maximal exercise, other studies have failed to show any change in circulating IL-12 concentration with exercise. The present study demonstrated that IL-12 p40 was present in excess of p70 especially after exercise. This may be one of the mechanisms behind several phenomena including cellular immunosuppression, an increase in the relative proportion of type-2 cytokines following exhaustive exercise, and the higher incidence of infections and allergic disorders in regularly exercising endurance athletes.

Objectives: In order to clarify the relation between stress load and inoculated tumor growth in conjunction with neutrophil functions, several kinds of stress such as physical (Ph) and psychological (Ps) stress were loaded on rats either SST-2 tumor cell inoculated or control, and the functions of their peripheral neutrophils were determined.<br>Methods: A communication box was used for stress load on rats. SST-2 cells were inoculated in to rats in the tumor-inoculation groups. Two weeks after inoculation, the tumors were removed from the backs of the rats and weighed. The functions of neutrophils in the peripheral blood collected from the tail vein, were determined by the NBT deoxidization method.<br>Results: Tumor growth was enhanced when rats were loaded with either Ph or Ps stresses, but was inhibited when tumor cells were inoculated following either Ph or Ps stresses. These results show that chronological differences of loaded stresses influence immunological functions differently. The O₂^- production from the neutrophils stimulated by NBT-treated Staphilococcus aureus was suppressed in tumor-inoculated Ph and Ps groups, more markedly in the tumor-inoculated Ph group. It is logically relevant that the size of tumors increased in these groups, predominantly in the tumor-inoculated Ph group. On the other hand, O₂^- production from the neutrophils was enhanced and tumor growth decreased in tumor-inoculated animals following either Ph or Ps stresses.<br>Conclusions: Our experiments, it revealed that the function of neutrophils is strongly enhanced by stress load and O₂^- production is inhibited by the tumor inoculation as shown in stimulation tests. Therefore, our findings suggested that neutrophils may participate in the inhibition of tumor growth.

Objective: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relation between the dose of tumor cell inoculation (especially the doses less than minimum required to evoke tumor growth) and the anti-tumor immune system, particularly lymphoblast formation and cytotoxic activity of lymphcytes. Method: We inoculated rats with various doses of SST-2 tumor cells and examined natural killer (NK) cell activity and lymphoblast formation in vitro. Result: The results showed that the cytotoxicities against SST-2 cells and lymphoblast formation of lymphocytes were enhanced by small dose inoculation of tumor cells that could not induce tumor growth. Conclusion: It was suggested that was lymphocutes play an important role as an anti-tumor immune system at small doses of tumor inoculation, which appears to reflect an early stage of tumor growth in vivo. It was also suggested that SST-2 tumor inoculation might be a useful model for studying the anti-tumor immune response in SHR rats.

Objectives: In order to evaluate the relationship of quality of life (QOL) with physical fitness, competence and stress response in the elderly population in Japan, a cross sectional field survey of elderly subjects was conducted.<br>Methods: This survey was taken in Naguri village, Saitama. The data collected included physical fitness, competence, stress response and QOL in addition to demographic variables. As for physicl fitness indexes, grip strength (GS), single leg balance with eyes closed (SLB), bar grip ping reaction time (RT), trunk flexion (RF), ten-meter walking time (WT) and vital capacity (VC) were measured. The SF-36 was used for QOL assessment.<br>Results: A total of 120 elderly subjected participated to the survey. There were 42 males (73.5±5.74 years) and 78 females (74.2±6.17 years). The associations between physical health parameters in SF-36 and WT were highly significant: physicl functioning (β=-2.96, p<0.001), role physical (β=-3.64, p<0.001), bodily pain (β=-3.27, p<0.001) and general health (β=-3.14, p=0.001). Psychological stress response had a negative correlation with social functioning (β=-0.74, p=0.024), role-emotional (β=-2.34, p<0.007) and mental health (β=-0.97, p=0.024) as determined by multiple regression analysis. The goodness-of-fit indexes of the structural equation model describing the relationships among physical fitness, competence, stress response and QOL indicated excellent fit to the data with GFI=0.95 and AGFI=0.88. Stress response showed relatively stronger influence on QOL than physical fitness or competence.<br>Conclusion: Although there were slight differences in degree of influence, physical fitness, stress response and competence were found to be clearly related to QOL in elderly subjects. To keep good QOL status, it is important to maintain good physical fitness and level of competence and to reduce stress response.

It is known that interleukin (IL)-12 p70 promotes the differentiation of type-1 helper T (Th1) cells, which produce type-1 cytokines such as IL-2 and interferon (IFN), thereby supporting cellular immunity, whereas IL-12 p40 acts as an antagonist of IL-12 p70. In contrast, IL-4 and IL-6 promote the differentiation of Th2 cells, which produce type-2 cytokines IL-4, IL-6 and IL-10, induce humoral immunity and are involved in allergic reactions. Exhaustive exercise causes the suppression of T lymphocyte activity while asthmatic and allergic diseases are subclinically more prevalent in athletes. One of the mechanisms behind these observations might be a lower type-1 and higher type-2 cytokine balance, which we previously demonstrated to occur after exhaustive exercise. In the present study, we investigated the type-1/type-2 cytokine balance by measuring plasma concentrations of IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and IFN-gamma with microparticle-based flow cytometric technology. IL-5, IL-6 and IL-13 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). IL-12 p40 and p70 were measured separately, also by ELISA. Plasma IL-12 p40 concentration rose significantly after maximal exercise and to an even greater extent after a marathon race. Conversely, plasma IL-12 p70 could not be detected even using two different assays. The marathon race caused a marked increase in the plasma concentrations of IL-6 and IL-10. Their responses were correlated (r=0.78, p&lt;0.01), indicating that IL-6 is an inducer of IL-10, and may partly induce the type-1 &lt; type-2 cytokine balance. With the exception of one study involving maximal exercise, other studies have failed to show any change in circulating IL-12 concentration with exercise. The present study demonstrated that IL-12 p40 was present in excess of p70 especially after exercise. This may be one of the mechanisms behind several phenomena including cellular immunosuppression, an increase in the relative proportion of type-2 cytokines following exhaustive exercise, and the higher incidence of infections and allergic disorders in regularly exercising endurance athletes.

We investigated the relationships between neutrophil functions and lifestyle factors in the elderly. The subjects (84 males, 73.9+/-5.8 years old; and 63 females, 70.0+/-4.6 years old) belonged to a recreational seniors club in Japan. Investigations of the subjects' stress, exercise habits, smoking habits, and alcohol-drinking habits were performed. The phagocytosis and superoxide productivity of the neutrophils were measured with a nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction test. In addition, leukocyte counts and serum total protein (TP) levels were determined. The results revealed that aging, high serum levels, and stress-coping factors (e.g., having hobbies, keeping pets, and close links with friends or family) significantly correlated with preferable neutrophil functions. In addition, significant effects of lifestyle factors on the balance between phagocytosis and subsequent superoxide production were observed. Thus, the results of the present study suggest that there are correlations between neutrophil functions and lifestyle factors in the elderly. (C) 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

We investigated the relationships between neutrophil functions and lifestyle factors in the elderly. The subjects (84 males, 73.9+/-5.8 years old; and 63 females, 70.0+/-4.6 years old) belonged to a recreational seniors club in Japan. Investigations of the subjects' stress, exercise habits, smoking habits, and alcohol-drinking habits were performed. The phagocytosis and superoxide productivity of the neutrophils were measured with a nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction test. In addition, leukocyte counts and serum total protein (TP) levels were determined. The results revealed that aging, high serum levels, and stress-coping factors (e.g., having hobbies, keeping pets, and close links with friends or family) significantly correlated with preferable neutrophil functions. In addition, significant effects of lifestyle factors on the balance between phagocytosis and subsequent superoxide production were observed. Thus, the results of the present study suggest that there are correlations between neutrophil functions and lifestyle factors in the elderly. (C) 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

We investigated the relationships between neutrophil functions and lifestyle factors in the elderly. The subjects (84 males, 73.9+/-5.8 years old; and 63 females, 70.0+/-4.6 years old) belonged to a recreational seniors club in Japan. Investigations of the subjects' stress, exercise habits, smoking habits, and alcohol-drinking habits were performed. The phagocytosis and superoxide productivity of the neutrophils were measured with a nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction test. In addition, leukocyte counts and serum total protein (TP) levels were determined. The results revealed that aging, high serum levels, and stress-coping factors (e.g., having hobbies, keeping pets, and close links with friends or family) significantly correlated with preferable neutrophil functions. In addition, significant effects of lifestyle factors on the balance between phagocytosis and subsequent superoxide production were observed. Thus, the results of the present study suggest that there are correlations between neutrophil functions and lifestyle factors in the elderly. (C) 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

We investigated the relationships between neutrophil functions and lifestyle factors in the elderly. The subjects (84 males, 73.9+/-5.8 years old; and 63 females, 70.0+/-4.6 years old) belonged to a recreational seniors club in Japan. Investigations of the subjects' stress, exercise habits, smoking habits, and alcohol-drinking habits were performed. The phagocytosis and superoxide productivity of the neutrophils were measured with a nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction test. In addition, leukocyte counts and serum total protein (TP) levels were determined. The results revealed that aging, high serum levels, and stress-coping factors (e.g., having hobbies, keeping pets, and close links with friends or family) significantly correlated with preferable neutrophil functions. In addition, significant effects of lifestyle factors on the balance between phagocytosis and subsequent superoxide production were observed. Thus, the results of the present study suggest that there are correlations between neutrophil functions and lifestyle factors in the elderly. (C) 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Objective: We studied time-related changes in splenic immunocyte population in mice after a subcutaneous injection of beryllium (Be). Material and methods: We analyzed cell populations in spleen of mice, which was injected with 50 mug of Be by a flow-cytometric assay. Results: The percentage of lymphoid cells decreased and the percentages of granulocyte-like cells and macrophage-like cells increased in the mice at the 3rd day after injection (the Be-3 group). Then, the percentages of the CD4-positive cells and the CD8-positive cells were significantly lower and the percentage of the B cells was significantly higher in the Be-3 group than in the untreated mice (the Cent group). Conclusion: The rate of CD4- and CD8-positive cells to B cells in the Be-3 group was significantly lower than that in the Cent group. Tn our previous paper, we reported that Be promoted the complement and coagulant system at 3 days after injection. These findings suggested that the activity of cellular immunity was suppressed and that of humoral immunity was enhanced at the 3rd day after the Be injection.

We performed this study to evaluate the chronic effect of training on neutrophil functions in humans. Twenty-six university students (14 males and 12 females) with a mean age of 19.1±0.8 years were divided into the athlete group and the control group based on answers given to a written questionnaire. The capacity of circulating neutrophils to ingest bacteria (phagocytosis) and to produce superoxide (nitroblue tetrazolium reduction) was measured under resting conditions in the absence of training activities. In addition, we measured hematological and serum biochemical parameters. The present analyses revealed that the frequency of subjective symptoms concerning susceptibility to infections (sum of males and females) was higher in the athlete group than in the control group (p&lt
0.05). In the investigation of males, hemoglobin and serum protein levels of the athlete group were lower than that of the control group (p&lt
0.01, p&lt
0.05, respectively). Although total and differential leukocyte counts, and phagocytic activity of neutrophils were not significantly different between the groups, superoxide productivity of neutrophils in the male athlete group was higher than that in the control group (p&lt
0.05). Since significant differences were observed in hemoglobin and serum protein levels in the male athletes, the training is considered to have been intense. An increase was noted in the neutrophil superoxide production along with these changes, but no significant difference was observed in the phagocytic activity. Therefore, there is the possibility of superoxide overproduction, which may lead to tissue damage.

We performed this study to evaluate the chronic effect of training on neutrophil functions in humans. Twenty-six university students (14 males and 12 females) with a mean age of 19.1±0.8 years were divided into the athlete group and the control group based on answers given to a written questionnaire. The capacity of circulating neutrophils to ingest bacteria (phagocytosis) and to produce superoxide (nitroblue tetrazolium reduction) was measured under resting conditions in the absence of training activities. In addition, we measured hematological and serum biochemical parameters. The present analyses revealed that the frequency of subjective symptoms concerning susceptibility to infections (sum of males and females) was higher in the athlete group than in the control group (p&lt
0.05). In the investigation of males, hemoglobin and serum protein levels of the athlete group were lower than that of the control group (p&lt
0.01, p&lt
0.05, respectively). Although total and differential leukocyte counts, and phagocytic activity of neutrophils were not significantly different between the groups, superoxide productivity of neutrophils in the male athlete group was higher than that in the control group (p&lt
0.05). Since significant differences were observed in hemoglobin and serum protein levels in the male athletes, the training is considered to have been intense. An increase was noted in the neutrophil superoxide production along with these changes, but no significant difference was observed in the phagocytic activity. Therefore, there is the possibility of superoxide overproduction, which may lead to tissue damage.

We performed this study to evaluate the chronic effect of training on neutrophil functions in humans. Twenty-six university students (14 males and 12 females) with a mean age of 19.1±0.8 years were divided into the athlete group and the control group based on answers given to a written questionnaire. The capacity of circulating neutrophils to ingest bacteria (phagocytosis) and to produce superoxide (nitroblue tetrazolium reduction) was measured under resting conditions in the absence of training activities. In addition, we measured hematological and serum biochemical parameters. The present analyses revealed that the frequency of subjective symptoms concerning susceptibility to infections (sum of males and females) was higher in the athlete group than in the control group (p&lt
0.05). In the investigation of males, hemoglobin and serum protein levels of the athlete group were lower than that of the control group (p&lt
0.01, p&lt
0.05, respectively). Although total and differential leukocyte counts, and phagocytic activity of neutrophils were not significantly different between the groups, superoxide productivity of neutrophils in the male athlete group was higher than that in the control group (p&lt
0.05). Since significant differences were observed in hemoglobin and serum protein levels in the male athletes, the training is considered to have been intense. An increase was noted in the neutrophil superoxide production along with these changes, but no significant difference was observed in the phagocytic activity. Therefore, there is the possibility of superoxide overproduction, which may lead to tissue damage.

Five-week-old male Fischer rats were exposed 3 hr per day for either 5 or 10 days to three concentrations of sodium fluoride aerosol (1.11, 3.33, and 10.3 mg F/m(3)). A significant increase in lung weight was observed at the highest concentration. The activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and total protein concentration in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid were also significantly higher in rats exposed to 3.33 and 10.3 mg F/m(3). Neutrophil phagocytic activity in the blood was stimulated by 10-day exposure, and a significant increase in bactericidal activity and superoxide production was observed by exposure to 3.33 mg F/m(3) but not to 40.3 mg F/m(3).

Five-week-old male Fischer rats were exposed 3 hr per day for either 5 or 10 days to three concentrations of sodium fluoride aerosol (1.11, 3.33, and 10.3 mg F/m(3)). A significant increase in lung weight was observed at the highest concentration. The activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and total protein concentration in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid were also significantly higher in rats exposed to 3.33 and 10.3 mg F/m(3). Neutrophil phagocytic activity in the blood was stimulated by 10-day exposure, and a significant increase in bactericidal activity and superoxide production was observed by exposure to 3.33 mg F/m(3) but not to 40.3 mg F/m(3).

Five-week-old male Fischer rats were exposed 3 hr per day for either 5 or 10 days to three concentrations of sodium fluoride aerosol (1.11, 3.33, and 10.3 mg F/m(3)). A significant increase in lung weight was observed at the highest concentration. The activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and total protein concentration in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid were also significantly higher in rats exposed to 3.33 and 10.3 mg F/m(3). Neutrophil phagocytic activity in the blood was stimulated by 10-day exposure, and a significant increase in bactericidal activity and superoxide production was observed by exposure to 3.33 mg F/m(3) but not to 40.3 mg F/m(3).

Five-week-old male Fischer rats were exposed 3 hr per day for either 5 or 10 days to three concentrations of sodium fluoride aerosol (1.11, 3.33, and 10.3 mg F/m(3)). A significant increase in lung weight was observed at the highest concentration. The activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and total protein concentration in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid were also significantly higher in rats exposed to 3.33 and 10.3 mg F/m(3). Neutrophil phagocytic activity in the blood was stimulated by 10-day exposure, and a significant increase in bactericidal activity and superoxide production was observed by exposure to 3.33 mg F/m(3) but not to 40.3 mg F/m(3).

The effects of fluoride aerosol inhalation on mice were studied using an inhalation chamber. Five-week-old male ICR mice were exposed to airborne fluoride (13.3 mgF/m(3)) 4 hr per day for 10, 20 or 30 days. Significant differences in relative lung weight were observed between the exposed groups and the control. No significant changes were found in relative kidney weight and body weight of the exposed mice. Bone fluoride retention and urinary fluoride excretion increased with exposure time.

Recently, the neutrophil has been shown to have the capacity to produce a number of cytokines. Among these cytokines, interleukin-1 (IL-1), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and IL-6 are typical examples of multifunctional cytokines involved in regulation of the immune response and inflammation. However, there are conflicting reports in the literature concerning the issue of whether IL-6 expression can be modulated in human neutrophils. In this study, we showed the spontaneous secretion of IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6 by neutrophils. IL-6 secretion of neutrophils was effectively induced by IL- 1β. However, spontaneous or IL-1β induced secretion of IL-6 was observed only when the cells were cultured in autologous plasma. Then we examined the spontaneous secretion of cytokines by co-cultured leukocytes (neutrophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes). Surprisingly, IL-6 was dramatically secreted by the leukocytes only when the cells were cultured in autologous plasma, although IL-1β and TNF- α were secreted by the cells either in RPMI 1640 or in plasma. These observations suggest that the regulation of IL-6 production is qualitatively different from the production of IL-1β or TNF- α by leukocytes.

The importance of the neutrophil function to host defense and tissue damage has been widely recognized. However, the usefulness of the correlation analysis between phagocytic activity and superoxide production of neutrophils is unknown. We investigated the relationship by histochemical NET assay using rats and mice exposed to voluntary exercises and stresses.
The following conclusions were shown from the results in this report and from our previously published findings. The results of voluntary exercise showed significant positive correlations between phagocytic activity and superoxide production of neutrophils after the continuation of the exercise for 8 months, but no relationship after only 3 or 4 months. However, when Salmonella was injected into the same group after 4 months, significant positive correlations were observed immediately following and on the 6th and 14th days after injection. In contrast, negative correlations emerged after psychological stress and severe-crowding stress, suggesting that appropriate expression of neutrophil function was disturbed by the reverse effects, such as by suppression of oxygen-dependent killing capacity or overproduction of toxic free radicals subsequent to these stress.
These results suggest that the correlations of phagocytic activity and superoxide production of neutrophils reflect whether a neutrophil functional state is appropriate or not. (C) 1996 Wiiey-Liss, Inc.

The importance of the neutrophil function to host defense and tissue damage has been widely recognized. However, the usefulness of the correlation analysis between phagocytic activity and superoxide production of neutrophils is unknown. We investigated the relationship by histochemical NBT assay using rats and mice exposed to voluntary exercises and stresses. The following conclusions were shown from the results in this report and from our previously published findings. The results of voluntary exercise showed significant positive correlations between phagocytic activity and superoxide production of neutrophils after the continuation of the exercise for 8 months, but no relationship after only 3 or 4 months. However, when Salmonella was injected into the same group after 4 months, significant positive correlations were observed immediately following and on the 6th and 14th days after injection. In contrast, negative correlations emerged after psychological stress and severe-crowding stress, suggesting that appropriate expression of neutrophil function was disturbed by the reverse effects, such as by suppression of oxygen-dependent killing capacity or overproduction of toxic free radicals subsequent to these stress. These results suggest that the correlations of phagocytic activity and superoxide production of neutrophils reflect whether a neutrophil functional state is appropriate or not.

Although it is generally thought that habitual exercise protects an individual from infections, few careful scientific studies have been conducted. To clarify the influences of physical training on non-specific humoral immunity, both serum opsonic activity, which is a more direct indicator for the strength of non-specific humoral immunity to infections, and serum immunoglobulin and complement levels of 18 healthy male volunteers were assayed before and after a 10-week of training as indices of immuno defense. The serum levels of three immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA and IgM) and one complement (C3) were compared prior to and immediately after exercise both before and after training. Paired t-test revealed that before training exercise-induced increases in IgG and C3 were significant and after training increases in IgG, IgA, IgM and C3 were significant. But baseline (prior to exercise) levels of these immunoglobulins and complement were significantly suppressed during the training period. Serum opsonic activity was compared with each other in the same way as serum protein levels. The neutrophilic chemiluminescence Peak Height (PH), which is one of the indicators of serum opsonic activity, was significantly decreased immediately after exercise at the beginning stage of the training. After the training period, serum opsonic activity showed no noteworthy exercise-induced variations and baseline levels were slightly increased during the training period. These findings suggest that resistance and reactivity to the physical stress are improved and the non-specific humoral immunity, self-defense ability against infections, is considered to be improved by the training. © 1994, The Japanese Society of Physical Fitness and Sports Medicine. All rights reserved.

Although it is generally thought that habitual exercise protects an individual from infections, few careful scientific studies have been conducted. To clarify the influences of physical training on non-specific humoral immunity, both serum opsonic activity, which is a more direct indicator for the strength of non-specific humoral immunity to infections, and serum immunoglobulin and complement levels of 18 healthy male volunteers were assayed before and after a 10-week of training as indices of immuno defense. The serum levels of three immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA and IgM) and one complement (C3) were compared prior to and immediately after exercise both before and after training. Paired t-test revealed that before training exercise-induced increases in IgG and C3 were significant and after training increases in IgG, IgA, IgM and C3 were significant. But baseline (prior to exercise) levels of these immunoglobulins and complement were significantly suppressed during the training period. Serum opsonic activity was compared with each other in the same way as serum protein levels. The neutrophilic chemiluminescence Peak Height (PH), which is one of the indicators of serum opsonic activity, was significantly decreased immediately after exercise at the beginning stage of the training. After the training period, serum opsonic activity showed no noteworthy exercise-induced variations and baseline levels were slightly increased during the training period. These findings suggest that resistance and reactivity to the physical stress are improved and the non-specific humoral immunity, self-defense ability against infections, is considered to be improved by the training. © 1994, The Japanese Society of Physical Fitness and Sports Medicine. All rights reserved.

Although it is generally thought that habitual exercise protects an individual from infections, few careful scientific studies have been conducted. To clarify the influences of physical training on non-specific humoral immunity, both serum opsonic activity, which is a more direct indicator for the strength of non-specific humoral immunity to infections, and serum immunoglobulin and complement levels of 18 healthy male volunteers were assayed before and after a 10-week of training as indices of immuno defense. The serum levels of three immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA and IgM) and one complement (C3) were compared prior to and immediately after exercise both before and after training. Paired t-test revealed that before training exercise-induced increases in IgG and C3 were significant and after training increases in IgG, IgA, IgM and C3 were significant. But baseline (prior to exercise) levels of these immunoglobulins and complement were significantly suppressed during the training period. Serum opsonic activity was compared with each other in the same way as serum protein levels. The neutrophilic chemiluminescence Peak Height (PH), which is one of the indicators of serum opsonic activity, was significantly decreased immediately after exercise at the beginning stage of the training. After the training period, serum opsonic activity showed no noteworthy exercise-induced variations and baseline levels were slightly increased during the training period. These findings suggest that resistance and reactivity to the physical stress are improved and the non-specific humoral immunity, self-defense ability against infections, is considered to be improved by the training. © 1994, The Japanese Society of Physical Fitness and Sports Medicine. All rights reserved.

Although it is generally thought that habitual exercise protects an individual from infections, few careful scientific studies have been conducted. To clarify the influences of physical training on non-specific humoral immunity, both serum opsonic activity, which is a more direct indicator for the strength of non-specific humoral immunity to infections, and serum immunoglobulin and complement levels of 18 healthy male volunteers were assayed before and after a 10-week of training as indices of immuno defense. The serum levels of three immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA and IgM) and one complement (C3) were compared prior to and immediately after exercise both before and after training. Paired t-test revealed that before training exercise-induced increases in IgG and C3 were significant and after training increases in IgG, IgA, IgM and C3 were significant. But baseline (prior to exercise) levels of these immunoglobulins and complement were significantly suppressed during the training period. Serum opsonic activity was compared with each other in the same way as serum protein levels. The neutrophilic chemiluminescence Peak Height (PH), which is one of the indicators of serum opsonic activity, was significantly decreased immediately after exercise at the beginning stage of the training. After the training period, serum opsonic activity showed no noteworthy exercise-induced variations and baseline levels were slightly increased during the training period. These findings suggest that resistance and reactivity to the physical stress are improved and the non-specific humoral immunity, self-defense ability against infections, is considered to be improved by the training. © 1994, The Japanese Society of Physical Fitness and Sports Medicine. All rights reserved.

This paper is intended to give the information we need about personal reactivity to transient loads for the object of estimating human physical fitness. For this purpose, both serum immunoglobulin levels and neutrophilic phagocytosis were assayed as indices to self-defense activities. To determine the later described reproducibility of experimental results, two independent experiments were made on two different groups —one consisting of twelve and the other of fourteen male voluntary students of our college— exercised in the playgroud. The serum levels of three immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA and IgM)and two complements (C3 and C4), prior to and immediately after exercise, were compared with each other. They rose without exception after exercise. Paired T-test revealed that in the group of twelve students, rises in IgG, IgA, C 3, α-l-antitrypsin and transferrin were significant at P&lt
0.1%, 5 %, 5 %, 5 % and 0.1%, and in the group of fourteen rises in IgG, IgA, IgM, C3, C4, α-1-antitrypsin and transferrin were significant at P&lt
1 %, 0.1%, 1 %, 0.1%, 0.1%, 0.1% and 0.1%, respectively. In the meantime, the neutrophilic phagocytosis (%) was significantly decreased immediately after exercise in both groups (P&lt
1 % and P&lt
0.1% respectively). © 1987, The Japanese Society of Physical Fitness and Sports Medicine. All rights reserved.

This paper is intended to give the information we need about personal reactivity to transient loads for the object of estimating human physical fitness. For this purpose, both serum immunoglobulin levels and neutrophilic phagocytosis were assayed as indices to self-defense activities. To determine the later described reproducibility of experimental results, two independent experiments were made on two different groups —one consisting of twelve and the other of fourteen male voluntary students of our college— exercised in the playgroud. The serum levels of three immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA and IgM)and two complements (C3 and C4), prior to and immediately after exercise, were compared with each other. They rose without exception after exercise. Paired T-test revealed that in the group of twelve students, rises in IgG, IgA, C 3, α-l-antitrypsin and transferrin were significant at P&lt
0.1%, 5 %, 5 %, 5 % and 0.1%, and in the group of fourteen rises in IgG, IgA, IgM, C3, C4, α-1-antitrypsin and transferrin were significant at P&lt
1 %, 0.1%, 1 %, 0.1%, 0.1%, 0.1% and 0.1%, respectively. In the meantime, the neutrophilic phagocytosis (%) was significantly decreased immediately after exercise in both groups (P&lt
1 % and P&lt
0.1% respectively). © 1987, The Japanese Society of Physical Fitness and Sports Medicine. All rights reserved.

This paper is intended to give the information we need about personal reactivity to transient loads for the object of estimating human physical fitness. For this purpose, both serum immunoglobulin levels and neutrophilic phagocytosis were assayed as indices to self-defense activities. To determine the later described reproducibility of experimental results, two independent experiments were made on two different groups —one consisting of twelve and the other of fourteen male voluntary students of our college— exercised in the playgroud. The serum levels of three immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA and IgM)and two complements (C3 and C4), prior to and immediately after exercise, were compared with each other. They rose without exception after exercise. Paired T-test revealed that in the group of twelve students, rises in IgG, IgA, C 3, α-l-antitrypsin and transferrin were significant at P&lt
0.1%, 5 %, 5 %, 5 % and 0.1%, and in the group of fourteen rises in IgG, IgA, IgM, C3, C4, α-1-antitrypsin and transferrin were significant at P&lt
1 %, 0.1%, 1 %, 0.1%, 0.1%, 0.1% and 0.1%, respectively. In the meantime, the neutrophilic phagocytosis (%) was significantly decreased immediately after exercise in both groups (P&lt
1 % and P&lt
0.1% respectively). © 1987, The Japanese Society of Physical Fitness and Sports Medicine. All rights reserved.

目的： 数十年後の日本は人類がかって経験しなかった超高齢化社会を迎えようとしている。そのため，抜本的な保健活動の改革と年を取っても元気で生きがいのある生活を送れるような活動を推進する必要がある。そのために，基礎体力の向上，食生活の改善，余暇の過ごし方などの健康指導を中心とした住民運動を推進する調査を企画した。方法： 対象者：埼玉県狭山市の老人クラブ会員。1995年度150名（男：85名，女：65名，平均年齢72.2±5.5才），1996年度138名（男：73名，女：65名，平均年齢75.8才）を対象として各種ライフスタイルに関するアンケート調査（生活習慣，嗜好習慣，運動習慣，健康状態，既往症，食生活，ストレスに関する調査など），生理機能測定（血圧，握力，肺機能，肥満度，尿検査等）および血液検査（15項目の血清生化学検査，貧血検査，好中球貪食・活性酸素産生試験，フローサイトメトリーによるNK細胞数）を実施した。結果： 1. 食品摂取状況はおおむね良好であったが，特に80歳代が良かった。食品摂取状態の良好な人は好中球の貪食・細菌能の間に強い正の相関がみられたばかりでなく非刺激時試験で低い活性酸素産生能を示した。また，栄養に関係している血清中ALB, TPやCaの高い人は好中球貪食・細菌能が有意に高値を示した。2. 喫煙習慣のない人や男の少量の飲酒者は良好な好中球機能を示した。3. 週5回以上の運動習慣を持っている人はストレス度が有意に低値を示した。4. 悩みを解消する手段を持っている人は好中球の貪食・殺菌能の間に有意な相関関係を認めた。5. 6時間以下の睡眠時間の人は男女ともに非刺激時活性酸素産生が高値を示した。6. 女性のナチュラル細胞活性とストレス耐性度の間に正の相関が認められた。7. 生活活動度（ADL），アルコール摂取量とストレス度（SCL-S）との間に負の相関が認められた。