High-resolution single-particle imaging at 100-200 keV with the Gatan Alpine direct electron detector

Developments in direct electron detector technology have played a pivotal role in enabling high-resolution structural studies by cryo-EM at 200 and 300 keV. Yet, theory and recent experiments indicate advantages to imaging at 100 keV, energies for which the current detectors have not been optimized. In this study, we evaluated the Gatan Alpine detector, designed for operation at 100 and 200 keV. Compared to the Gatan K3, Alpine demonstrated a significant DQE improvement at these voltages, specifically a ~4-fold improvement at Nyquist at 100 keV. In single-particle cryo-EM experiments, Alpine datasets yielded better than 2 Å resolution reconstructions of apoferritin at 120 and 200 keV on a ThermoFisher Scientific (TFS) Glacios microscope. We also achieved a ~3.2 Å resolution reconstruction for a 115 kDa asymmetric protein complex, proving its effectiveness with complex biological samples. In-depth analysis revealed that Alpine reconstructions are comparable to K3 reconstructions at 200 keV, and remarkably, reconstruction from Alpine at 120 keV on a TFS Glacios surpassed all but the 300 keV data from a TFS Titan Krios with GIF/K3. Additionally, we show Alpine's capability for high-resolution data acquisition and screening on lower-end systems by obtaining ~3 Å resolution reconstructions of apoferritin and aldolase at 100 keV and detailed 2D averages of a 55 kDa sample using a side-entry cryo holder. Overall, we show that Gatan Alpine performs well with the standard 200 keV imaging systems and may potentially capture the benefits of lower accelerating voltages, possibly bringing smaller sized particles within the scope of cryo-EM.

Water Vapor Induced Superionic Conductivity in ZnPS3

Next-generation batteries based on sustainable multivalent working ions, such as Mg²⁺, Ca²⁺, or Zn²⁺, have the potential to improve the performance, safety, and capacity of current battery systems. Development of such multivalent ion batteries is hindered by a lack of understanding of multivalent ionics in solids, which is crucial for many aspects of battery operation. For instance, multivalent ionic transport was assumed to be correlated with electronic transport; however, we have previously shown that Zn²⁺ can conduct in electronically insulating ZnPS₃ with a low activation energy of 350 meV, albeit with low ionic conductivity. Here, we show that exposure of ZnPS₃ to environments with water vapor at different relative humidities results in room-temperature conductivity increases of several orders of magnitude, reaching as high as 1.44 mS cm^-1 without decomposition or structural changes. We utilize impedance spectroscopy with ion selective electrodes, ionic transference number measurements, and deposition and stripping of Zn metal, to confirm that both Zn²⁺ and H⁺ act as mobile ions. The contribution from Zn²⁺ to the ionic conductivity in water vapor exposed ZnPS₃ is high, representing superionic Zn²⁺ conduction. The present study demonstrates that it is possible to enhance multivalent ion conduction of electronically insulating solids as a result of water adsorption and highlights the importance of ensuring that increased conductivity in water vapor exposed multivalent ion systems is in fact due to mobile multivalent ions and not solely H⁺.

Characterization of SARS-CoV-2 Aerosols Dispersed During Noninvasive Respiratory Support of Patients With COVID-19

BACKGROUND

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, noninvasive respiratory support (NRS) therapies such as high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) and noninvasive ventilation (NIV) were central to respiratory care. The extent to which these treatments increase the generation and dispersion of infectious respiratory aerosols is not fully understood. The objective of this study was to characterize SARS-CoV-2 aerosol dispersion from subjects with COVID-19 undergoing NRS therapy.

METHODS

Several different aerosol sampling devices were used to collect air samples in the vicinity of 31 subjects with COVID-19, most of whom were receiving NRS therapy, primarily HFNC. Aerosols were collected onto filters and analyzed for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Additional measurements were collected in an aerosol chamber with healthy adult subjects using respiratory therapy devices under controlled and reproducible conditions.

RESULTS

Fifty aerosol samples were collected from subjects receiving HFNC or NIV therapy, whereas 6 samples were collected from subjects not receiving NRS. Only 4 of the 56 aerosol samples were positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA, and all positive samples were collected using a high air flow scavenger mask collection device placed in close proximity to the subject. The chamber measurements with healthy subjects did not show any significant increase in aerosol dispersion caused by the respiratory therapy devices compared to baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate very limited detection of SARS-CoV-2-containing aerosols in the vicinity of subjects with COVID-19 receiving NRS therapies in the clinical setting. These results, combined with controlled chamber measurements showing that HFNC and NIV device usage was not associated with increased aerosol dispersion, suggest that NRS therapies do not result in increased dispersal of aerosols in the clinical setting.

Real-world effectiveness and safety of edoxaban in patients with and without a history of ischaemic stroke: results from the ETNA-AF programme

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with a history of ischaemic stroke (IS) have a higher risk for recurrent IS events and were largely excluded from the pivotal, randomised, controlled phase 3 trials on oral anticoagulants. Thus, the effectiveness and safety of edoxaban in these patients need to be studied in a real-world setting.

Purpose

To compare edoxaban real-world effectiveness and safety in AF patients with or without an IS history.

Methods

The Global ETNA-AF programme (EU: NCT02944019, Japan: UMIN000017011, South Korea/Taiwan: NCT02951039) integrates data from multiple prospective, observational, noninterventional regional studies of AF patients receiving edoxaban for stroke prevention. This snapshot analysis summarises baseline characteristics with medical history and 2-year annualised rates of all-cause death, cardiovascular (CV) death, stroke (haemorrhagic, ischaemic, any), and bleeding (including major bleeding [MB], major gastrointestinal [GI] bleeding, intracranial haemorrhage [ICH], clinically relevant nonmajor bleeding [CRNMB], and any bleeding) in patients with or without IS history.

Results

Data from 27,333 patients (3215 with prior IS and 24,118 without) from Europe, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan were analysed. Patients with IS history were significantly older, more likely ≥75 years of age, and had a lower mean body weight and creatinine clearance (P<0.0001 for all; Table). Patients with IS history also had significantly higher baseline stroke (CHA2DS2-VASc) and bleeding (HAS-BLED) risk scores (P<0.0001 for both; Table). A significantly higher percentage of patients with IS history had previous transient ischaemic attacks (TIA), MB, and ICH (P<0.0001 for all; Table). Patients with IS history more likely received edoxaban 30 mg vs 60 mg at baseline (P<0.0001). Effectiveness and safety outcomes hazard ratios are shown in the Figure. Patients with IS history had significantly higher rates of all-cause death (4.5% vs 3.0%; P<0.0001), CV death (1.9% vs 1.4%; P=0.004), IS (2.5% vs 0.5%; P<0.0001), any stroke (3.1% vs 0.7%; P<0.0001), and TIA (0.5% vs 0.2%; P=0.0002). Patients with IS history had significantly higher annualised rates of MB (1.6% vs 1.0%; P<0.0001), major GI bleeding (0.8% vs 0.5%; P=0.003), ICH (0.6% vs 0.3%; P<0.0001), haemorrhagic stroke (0.5% vs 0.2%; P<0.0001), CRNMB (2.3% vs 1.3%; P<0.0001), and any bleeding (6.1% vs 4.1%; P<0.0001).

Conclusions

Patients with AF who have a history of IS are more likely elderly; have histories of MB, ICH, and TIA; and have high baseline stroke and bleeding risk scores. Patients with IS history receiving edoxaban have a considerably higher likelihood of experiencing IS or TIA, whereas the risk of experiencing any bleeding event (with the exception of ICH) is only modestly higher than in those without IS history.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Daiichi Sankyo

Effectiveness and safety of edoxaban in 27,333 patients from ETNA-AF with and without a history of intracranial haemorrhage after 2 years of treatment

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): This study was sponsored by Daiichi Sankyo, Inc. Medical writing and editorial support were provided by Atreju Lackey, PhD of AlphaBioCom, LLC, and funded by Daiichi Sankyo, Inc.

Background/Introduction

Once-daily edoxaban significantly reduced the risk of intracranial haemorrhage (ICH) compared with well-managed warfarin in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients in the ENGAGE AF-TIMI 48 trial. The effectiveness and safety of edoxaban in patients with prior ICH is unknown.

Purpose

To compare the effectiveness and safety of edoxaban in AF patients with or without a history of ICH.

Methods

The Global ETNA-AF programme is composed of and, thus, integrates data from multiple prospective, observational, and noninterventional regional studies collecting data of AF patients treated with edoxaban for stroke prevention. This snapshot analysis presents global and regional baseline characteristics with medical history and 2-year annualised rates of all-cause mortality, stroke (haemorrhagic, ischaemic, any), and bleeding (major bleeding [MB] including ICH, clinically relevant nonmajor bleeding [CRNMB], any bleeding), in patients with or without ICH history.

Results

Overall, 27,333 patients from Europe, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan were analysed, including 367 with prior ICH and 26,966 without prior ICH. There were proportionally fewer patients with a history of ICH in the European population. Patients with a history of ICH were older (P=0.006), had a lower body mass index (P<0.0001), had a lower creatinine clearance (P=0.0001), and had more comorbidities, with a higher percentage of patients with a history of stroke, transient ischaemic attack (TIA), or MB (Table 1); the higher level of comorbidities noted in patients with a history of ICH was also reflected by higher baseline CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED scores (Table 1). Patients with a history of ICH were more likely receiving 30 mg edoxaban at baseline, whereas patients without ICH history were more often on 60 mg edoxaban (each P<0.0001). In patients with vs without ICH history, all-cause mortality (5.10% vs 3.14%; P=0.01), ischaemic stroke (1.79% vs 0.73%; P=0.006), and any stroke rates (3.25% vs 0.95%; P<0.0001) were higher (Table 2). Patients with vs without ICH history had higher annualised rates of MB (2.50% vs 1.00%; P=0.001), ICH (1.42% vs 0.27%; P<0.0001), haemorrhagic stroke (1.42% vs 0.20%; P<0.0001), CRNMB (2.49% vs 1.40%; P=0.04), and any bleeding (7.57% vs 4.27%; P=0.001), but these rates were low compared to other high-risk populations. ICH was not selected as a predictor of cardiovascular outcomes on multivariate prediction modelling. ICH had non-significant effects in predicting all-cause death (HR 1.22), ischemic stroke (HR 1.14), and major bleeding (HF 1.37) and repeat ICH (HR 1.94).

Conclusions

Patients with a history of ICH are a small, elderly, multimorbid subgroup of patients with AF. Treatment with the non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant edoxaban resulted in relatively low rates of major events.

Effects of a Tridentate Pincer Ligand on Parahydrogen Induced Polarization

The role of ligands in rhodium- and iridium-catalyzed Parahydrogen Induced Polarization (PHIP) and SABRE (signal amplification by reversible exchange) chemistry has been studied in the benchmark systems, [Rh(diene)(diphos)]⁺ and [Ir(NHC)(sub)₃ (H)₂ ]⁺ , and shown to have a great impact on the degree of hyperpolarization observed. Here, we examine the role of the flanking moieties in the electron-rich monoanionic bis(carbene) aryl pincer ligand, ^Ar CCC (Ar=Dipp, 2,6-diisopropyl or Mes, 2,4,6-trimethylphenyl) on the cobalt-catalyzed PHIP and PHIP-IE (PHIP via Insertion and Elimination) chemistry that we have previously reported. The mesityl groups were exchanged for diisopropylphenyl groups to generate the (^Dipp CCC)Co(N₂ ) catalyst, which resulted in faster hydrogenation and up to 390-fold ¹ H signal enhancements, larger than that of the (^Mes CCC)Co-py (py=pyridine) catalyst. Additionally, the synthesis of the (^Dipp CCC)Rh(N₂ ) complex is reported and applied towards the hydrogenation of ethyl acrylate with parahydrogen to generate modest signal enhancements of both ¹ H and ¹³ C nuclei. Lastly, the generation of two (^Mes CCC)Ir complexes is presented and applied towards SABRE and PHIP-IE chemistry to only yield small ¹ H signal enhancements of the partially hydrogenated product (PHIP) with no SABRE hyperpolarization.

Multimodal cross-registration and quantification of metric distortions in marmoset whole brain histology using diffeomorphic mappings

Whole brain neuroanatomy using tera-voxel light-microscopic data sets is of much current interest. A fundamental problem in this field is the mapping of individual brain data sets to a reference space. Previous work has not rigorously quantified in-vivo to ex-vivo distortions in brain geometry from tissue processing. Further, existing approaches focus on registering unimodal volumetric data; however, given the increasing interest in the marmoset model for neuroscience research and the importance of addressing individual brain architecture variations, new algorithms are necessary to cross-register multimodal data sets including MRIs and multiple histological series. Here we present a computational approach for same-subject multimodal MRI-guided reconstruction of a series of consecutive histological sections, jointly with diffeomorphic mapping to a reference atlas. We quantify the scale change during different stages of brain histological processing using the Jacobian determinant of the diffeomorphic transformations involved. By mapping the final image stacks to the ex-vivo post-fixation MRI, we show that (a) tape-transfer assisted histological sections can be reassembled accurately into 3D volumes with a local scale change of 2.0 ± 0.4% per axis dimension; in contrast, (b) tissue perfusion/fixation as assessed by mapping the in-vivo MRIs to the ex-vivo post fixation MRIs shows a larger median absolute scale change of 6.9 ± 2.1% per axis dimension. This is the first systematic quantification of local metric distortions associated with whole-brain histological processing, and we expect that the results will generalize to other species. These local scale changes will be important for computing local properties to create reference brain maps.

Diffeomorphic Upsampling of Serially Acquired Sparse 2D Cross-Sections in Cardiac MRI

In this paper, we propose a new technique for interpolating shapes in order to upsample a sparsely acquired serial-section image stack. The method is based on a maximum a posteriori estimation strategy which models neighboring sections as observations of random deformations of an image to be estimated. We show the computation of diffeomorphic trajectories between observed sections and define estimated upsampled image sections as a Jacobian-weighted sum of flowing images at corresponding distances along those trajectories. We apply this methodology to upsample stacks of sparse 2D magnetic resonance cross-sections through live mouse hearts. We show that the proposed method results in smoother and more accurate reconstructions over linear interpolation, and report a Dice coefficient of 0.8727 against ground truth segmentations in our dataset and statistically significant improvements in both left ventricular segmentation accuracy and image intensity estimates.

P4785Clinical characteristics and 1-year outcomes in atrial fibrillation patients with or without history of intracranial haemorrhage treated with edoxaban: snapshot analysis of the Global ETNA-AF program

Background

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who survive an intracranial haemorrhage (ICH) are at high risk of stroke, death, and recurrent haemorrhage. Effectiveness and safety of the nonvitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant (NOAC) edoxaban in this patient population has not been reported.

Purpose

This snapshot analysis from the global ETNA-AF program compared 1-year outcomes in AF patients with and without history of ICH treated with edoxaban from Europe, Japan, and Korea/Taiwan.

Methods

Global ETNA-AF (EU: NCT02944019, Japan: UMINehz745.116117011, Korea/Taiwan: NCT02951039) is a multinational, multicentre, prospective, noninterventional program of AF patients receiving edoxaban in regular clinical care. Demographics, baseline characteristics, and outcomes at 1-year follow-up were reported for 19416 patients with and without a history of ICH.

Results

Of the 19416 patients, 297 had a history of ICH. At 1-year follow-up, incidences of International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) major bleeding (including ICH) and clinically relevant nonmajor bleeding (CRNMB) were generally low. The rate of ischaemic stroke was higher in patients with a history of ICH than in those without prior ICH.

Europe (N=7672) Korea/Taiwan (N=1701) Japan (N=10043) History of ICH, n (%) Yes No Yes No Yes No 36 (0.5) 636 (99.5) 27 (1.6) 1674 (98.4) 234 (2.3) 9809 (97.7) Age, median (IQR) 75 (69, 78) 74 (68, 80) 70 (66, 76) 72 (66, 77) 76 (71, 82) 75 (68, 81) Gender, male % 72.2 57.4 70.4 59.9 60.7 59.3 Weight, median (IQR) kg 80.0 (75.0, 88.0) 80.0 (70.0, 92.0) 68.0 (54.0, 77.0) 65.0 (58.0, 73.0) 57.0 (50.0, 65.0) 59.0 (51.0, 68.0) CHA2DS2-VASc, mean (SD) 4.2 (1.44) 3.1 (1.38) 3.9 (1.63) 3.0 (1.43) 4.0 (1.56) 3.4 (1.64) HAS-BLED, mean (SD) 4.3 (1.23) 2.6 (1.12) 3.9 (1.55) 2.4 (10.7) 3.7 (1.07) 2.3 (1.12) CrCl [mL/min], median (IQR) 70.5 (58.8, 85.1) 70.4 (53.8, 90.1) 63.7 (45.8, 84.2) 61.6 (48.4, 78.1) 58.5 (46.0, 73.2) 60.2 (46.1, 77.0) Edoxaban 60/30 mg, % 83.3 / 16.7 77.1 / 22.9 55.6 / 44.4 50.2 / 49.8 21.8 / 78.2 27.8 / 72.2 1-year outcome, n (%/year)   Major bleeding (ISTH) 2 (5.94) 66 (0.92) 0 (0) 13 (0.82) 3 (1.92) 66 (0.96)   Intracranial haemorrhage 1 (2.91) 19 (0.26) 0 (0) 5 (0.32) 1 (0.64) 18 (0.26)   Major GI* bleeding 0 (0.00) 20 (0.28) 0 (0) 2 (0.13) 2 (1.28) 30 (0.43)   CRNMB 0 (0.00) 102 (1.43) 0 (0) 11 (0.70) 6 (3.82) 219 (3.20)   Ischaemic stroke 1 (2.93) 41 (0.57) 1 (4.04) 11 (0.70) 4 (2.57) 78 (1.13) *Gastrointestinal.

Conclusion

Our data underpin the need for effective stroke prevention. In AF patients with a history of ICH, data suggest that edoxaban can be safely and effectively administered in patients with and without prior ICH in regular clinical care.

Acknowledgement/Funding

Daiichi Sankyo

Relation of koniocellular layers of dorsal lateral geniculate to inferior pulvinar nuclei in common marmosets

Traditionally, the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) and the inferior pulvinar (IPul) nucleus are considered as anatomically and functionally distinct thalamic nuclei. However, in several primate species it has also been established that the koniocellular (K) layers of LGN and parts of the IPul have a shared pattern of immunoreactivity for the calcium-binding protein calbindin. These calbindin-rich cells constitute a thalamic matrix system which is implicated in thalamocortical synchronisation. Further, the K layers and IPul are both involved in visual processing and have similar connections with retina and superior colliculus. Here, we confirmed the continuity between calbindin-rich cells in LGN K layers and the central lateral division of IPul (IPulCL) in marmoset monkeys. By employing a high-throughput neuronal tracing method, we found that both the K layers and IPulCL form comparable patterns of connections with striate and extrastriate cortices; these connections are largely different to those of the parvocellular and magnocellular laminae of LGN. Retrograde tracer-labelled cells and anterograde tracer-labelled axon terminals merged seamlessly from IPulCL into LGN K layers. These results support continuity between LGN K layers and IPulCL, providing an anatomical basis for functional congruity of this region of the dorsal thalamic matrix and calling into question the traditional segregation between LGN and the inferior pulvinar nucleus.

A high-throughput neurohistological pipeline for brain-wide mesoscale connectivity mapping of the common marmoset

Understanding the connectivity architecture of entire vertebrate brains is a fundamental but difficult task. Here we present an integrated neuro-histological pipeline as well as a grid-based tracer injection strategy for systematic mesoscale connectivity mapping in the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus). Individual brains are sectioned into ~1700 20 µm sections using the tape transfer technique, permitting high quality 3D reconstruction of a series of histochemical stains (Nissl, myelin) interleaved with tracer labeled sections. Systematic in-vivo MRI of the individual animals facilitates injection placement into reference-atlas defined anatomical compartments. Further, by combining the resulting 3D volumes, containing informative cytoarchitectonic markers, with in-vivo and ex-vivo MRI, and using an integrated computational pipeline, we are able to accurately map individual brains into a common reference atlas despite the significant individual variation. This approach will facilitate the systematic assembly of a mesoscale connectivity matrix together with unprecedented 3D reconstructions of brain-wide projection patterns in a primate brain.

On variational solutions for whole brain serial-section histology using a Sobolev prior in the computational anatomy random orbit model

This paper presents a variational framework for dense diffeomorphic atlas-mapping onto high-throughput histology stacks at the 20 μm meso-scale. The observed sections are modelled as Gaussian random fields conditioned on a sequence of unknown section by section rigid motions and unknown diffeomorphic transformation of a three-dimensional atlas. To regularize over the high-dimensionality of our parameter space (which is a product space of the rigid motion dimensions and the diffeomorphism dimensions), the histology stacks are modelled as arising from a first order Sobolev space smoothness prior. We show that the joint maximum a-posteriori, penalized-likelihood estimator of our high dimensional parameter space emerges as a joint optimization interleaving rigid motion estimation for histology restacking and large deformation diffeomorphic metric mapping to atlas coordinates. We show that joint optimization in this parameter space solves the classical curvature non-identifiability of the histology stacking problem. The algorithms are demonstrated on a collection of whole-brain histological image stacks from the Mouse Brain Architecture Project.

New developments in neural tracing techniques have motivated the widespread use of histology as a modality for exploring the circuitry of the brain. Automated mapping of pre-labeled atlases onto modern large datasets of histological imagery is a critical step for elucidating the brain’s neural circuitry and shape. This task is challenging as histological sections are imaged independently and the reconstruction of the unsectioned volume is nontrivial. Typically, neuroanatomists use reference volumes of the same subject (e.g. MRI) to guide reconstruction. However, obtaining reference imagery is often non-standard, as in high-throughput animal models like mouse histology. Others have proposed using anatomical atlases as guides, but have not accounted for the intrinsic nonlinear shape difference from atlas to subject. Our method addresses these limitations by jointly optimizing reconstruction informed by an atlas simultaneously with the nonlinear change of coordinates that encapsulates anatomical variation. This accounts for intrinsic shape differences and enables rigorous, direct comparisons of atlas and subject coordinates. Using simulations, we demonstrate that our method recovers the reconstruction parameters more accurately than atlas-free models and innately produces accurate segmentations from simultaneous atlas mapping. We also demonstrate our method on the Mouse Brain Architecture dataset, successfully mapping and reconstructing over 1000 brains.

Personalized, assessment-based, and tiered medical education curriculum integrating treatment guidelines for atrial fibrillation

BACKGROUND

This continuing medical education (CME) curriculum utilizes the Learner Assessment Platform (LAP), providing learners with personalized educational pathways related to atrial fibrillation treatment.

HYPOTHESIS

There are improvements in knowledge among physician learners after CME, especially among LAP learners.

METHODS

In this LAP-based curriculum, an evaluation of learner deficits on designated learning objectives was conducted in tier 1 and used to direct learners to individualized tier 2 activities. Performance was assessed across learner tracks from baseline to learners' final intervention. Retention data were measured by the postcurriculum assessment, completed 8 weeks after the learners last intervention. Additionally, each activity included a unique matched set of pretest and post-test questions assessing the 4 learner domains: knowledge, competence, confidence, and practice patterns.

RESULTS

Significant learner improvement was measured across the curriculum over all 4 learner-domains: 48% (P < 0.0005), 78% (P < 0.0005), 21% (P < 0.0005), and 20% (P < 0.0005) improvements for knowledge, competence, confidence, and practice, respectively. Significant gains in participant performance scores (28% increase, P < 0.0005) by the final activity was observed. Learners who participated in the LAP (N = 989) demonstrated greater improvement in performance from baseline compared to non-LAP learners (41% increase for LAP vs 23% and 26% increase for non-LAP learners who completed 1 (N = 1899) or ≥2 (N = 533) activities, respectively, P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

The participant population (N = 3421) achieved statistically significant improvement across the curriculum, with LAP learners showing greater performance gains compared to non-LAP learners. These findings support the value of the LAP methodology in providing a cumulative and individualized CME experience.

Monitored Anesthesia Care for the Acute Ischemic Stroke Patient with End-stage Pulmonary Disease

The majority of patients who suffer acute ischemic stroke (AIS) from large vessel occlusion are at a significant risk for disability or death. Because patients on veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO) are therapeutically anticoagulated, intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator is contraindicated. For AIS management, these patients must undergo emergent intra-arterial therapy. Presented is a patient on VA ECMO who subsequently suffered a large vessel embolic stroke requiring emergent surgical intervention. The decision by our anesthetic team to perform the procedure under monitored anesthesia care is discussed.

Supplementation with spermine during in vitro maturation of porcine oocytes improves early embryonic development after parthenogenetic activation and somatic cell nuclear transfer

Spermine plays an important role in protection from reactive oxygen species (ROS) in bacteria, yeast, and mammalian cells, but there are few studies on the effects of spermine on porcine oocyte maturation and subsequent embryo development. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of spermine on in vitro maturation (IVM) of porcine oocytes and their developmental competence after parthenogenetic activation (PA) and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). We evaluated nuclear maturation, intracellular glutathione (GSH), and ROS levels in oocytes, and their subsequent embryonic development, as well as gene expression in mature oocytes, cumulus cells, and PA blastocysts. After treatment with various concentrations of spermine in IVM culture medium, there was no significant difference in nuclear maturation rate. However, spermine treatment groups (10- 500 µM) showed significantly increased intracellular GSH levels and decreased ROS levels compared to the control ( < 0.05). Furthermore, 10 µM spermine supported significantly higher blastocyst formation rates after PA than the control group ( < 0.05). According to the optimal condition from the PA results, we investigated the effects of 10 µM spermine on SCNT, and it also significantly improved blastocyst formation rates compared with the control group ( < 0.05). In evaluating the effects of 10 µM spermine on gene expression, there was significantly lower expression of a proapoptotic gene () and higher expression of an antiapoptotic gene () in cumulus cells ( < 0.05). was increased in spermine-treated oocytes. Levels of transcription for and were significantly increased in PA blastocysts. In conclusion, 10 µM spermine supplementation during IVM improved the development of porcine PA and SCNT embryos by increasing intracellular GSH, scavenging ROS levels, and regulating gene expression.

The effects of canthaxanthin on porcine oocyte maturation and embryo development in vitro after parthenogenetic activation and somatic cell nuclear transfer

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of canthaxanthin (Cx) treatment during in vitro maturation (IVM) of porcine oocytes on embryonic development after parthenogenetic activation (PA) and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), on intracellular glutathione (GSH) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in mature oocytes, and on gene expression in both PA- and SCNT-derived blastocysts. To determine the optimal effective concentration of Cx, porcine oocytes were cultured in IVM medium supplemented with various concentrations (0, 20, 40 and 80 μM) of Cx for 22 hr. Compared to other groups, supplementation with 40 μM Cx significantly improved blastocyst formation rates after PA (p < .05), but no significant differences were observed among groups in total blastocyst cell numbers. Subsequently, oocytes were cultured in IVM medium supplemented with or without 40 μM Cx. Oocytes treated with 40 μM Cx showed significantly increased cleavage and blastocyst formation rates after SCNT compared to the control group (p < .05). Moreover, significantly increased intracellular GSH and reduced ROS levels were observed in the Cx-treated group (p < .05). In addition, both PA- and SCNT-derived blastocysts from the 40 μM Cx-treated group showed significantly increased mRNA expression of Bcl2 and Oct4 and decreased Caspase3 expression level (p < .05), when compared with the control group. PA-derived blastocysts from the 40 μM Cx-treated group also exhibited significantly decreased expression of Bax (p < .05). Our results demonstrated that treatment with 40 μM Cx during IVM improves the developmental competence of PA and SCNT embryos. Improvement of embryo development by Cx is most likely due to increased intracellular GSH synthesis, which reduces ROS levels in oocytes, and it may also positively regulate apoptosis- and development-related genes.

Ketofol for monitored anesthesia care in shoulder arthroscopy and labral repair: a case report

A 21-year-old male (body mass index: 28.3) with a history of asthma and reactive airway disease since childhood underwent left shoulder arthroscopy and labral repair surgery under monitored anesthesia care. Because the procedure was performed in the beach chair position, access to the patient’s airway was limited throughout. To avoid general anesthesia and to limit potential complications associated with monitored anesthesia care, a ketofol admixture was used. This case demonstrates that, in conjunction with regional anesthesia, ketofol may be an acceptable alternative to propofol for maintenance in outpatient orthopedic procedures.

In Vivo Tissue Pharmacokinetics of Carbon-11-Labeled Clozapine in Healthy Volunteers: A Positron Emission Tomography Study

We investigated clozapine (CLZ) tissue pharmacokinetics in vivo by using carbon-11-labeled CLZ (¹¹C-CLZ) and positron emission tomography (PET). Eight healthy volunteers underwent ¹¹C-CLZ studies wherein computed tomography image acquisition was followed by PET scans (whole-body, four; brain, four). After bolus intravenous ¹¹C-CLZ injection, PET images were acquired at various timepoints for 2–3 hours. Tissue ¹¹C-CLZ signals were plotted over time, and pharmacokinetic parameters were determined. High ¹¹C-CLZ radioactivity was detected in the liver and brain, implying CLZ hepatic metabolism and efficient blood–brain barrier penetration. The urinary and hepatobiliary tracts were involved in ¹¹C-CLZ excretion. Moderate to high radioactivity was observed in the dopaminergic and serotonergic receptor-rich brain regions, indicating CLZ binding to multiple receptor types. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report the determination of ¹¹C-CLZ tissue pharmacokinetics in humans. PET using radiolabeled drugs can provide valuable information that could complement plasma pharmacokinetic data.

Optimizing electrical activation of porcine oocytes by adjusting pre- and post-activation mannitol exposure times

Modifying electrical activation conditions have been used to improve in vitro embryo production and development in pigs. However, there is insufficient information about correlations of porcine embryo development with oocyte pre- and post-activation conditions. The purpose of this study was to compare the developmental rates of porcine oocytes subjected to different mannitol exposure times, either pre- or post-electrical activation, and to elucidate the reason for the optimal mannitol exposure time. Mannitol exposure times around activation were adjusted as 0, 1, 2 or 3 min. Blastocyst development were checked on day 7. Exposure of oocytes to mannitol for 1 or 2 min before electrical activation produced significantly higher blastocyst rates than exposure for 0 or 3 min. There was no significant difference in blastocyst rates when activated oocytes were exposed to mannitol for 0, 1, 2 or 3 min after electrical activation. While exposure of oocytes to mannitol for 1 min pre- and 3 min post-activation showed significantly higher blastocyst development than 0 min pre- and 0 min post-activation. It also showed higher maintenance of normal oocyte morphology than exposure for 0 min pre- and 0 min post-activation. In conclusion, exposure of oocytes to mannitol for 1 min pre- and 3 min post-activation seems to be optimal for producing higher in vitro blastocyst development of porcine parthenogenetic embryos. The higher blastocyst development is correlated with higher maintenance of normal morphology in oocytes exposed to mannitol for 1 min pre- and 3 min post-activation.

A cavity ring-down spectroscopy sensor for real-time Hall thruster erosion measurements

A continuous-wave cavity ring-down spectroscopy sensor for real-time measurements of sputtered boron from Hall thrusters has been developed. The sensor uses a continuous-wave frequency-quadrupled diode laser at 250 nm to probe ground state atomic boron sputtered from the boron nitride insulating channel. Validation results from a controlled setup using an ion beam and target showed good agreement with a simple finite-element model. Application of the sensor for measurements of two Hall thrusters, the H6 and SPT-70, is described. The H6 was tested at power levels ranging from 1.5 to 10 kW. Peak boron densities of 10 ± 2 × 10(14) m(-3) were measured in the thruster plume, and the estimated eroded channel volume agreed within a factor of 2 of profilometry. The SPT-70 was tested at 600 and 660 W, yielding peak boron densities of 7.2 ± 1.1 × 10(14) m(-3), and the estimated erosion rate agreed within ~20% of profilometry. Technical challenges associated with operating a high-finesse cavity in the presence of energetic plasma are also discussed.

Species-specific challenges in dog cloning

Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) is now an established procedure used in cloning of several species. SCNT in dogs involves multiple steps including the removal of the nuclear material, injection of a donor cell, fusion, activation of the reconstructed oocytes and finally transfer to a synchronized female recipient. There are therefore many factors that contribute to cloning efficiency. By performing a retrospective analysis of 2005-2012 published papers regarding dog cloning, we define the optimum procedure and summarize the specific feature for dog cloning.

An open-label, rater-blinded, 8-week trial of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release in patients with major depressive disorder with atypical features

The present study aimed at investigating the effectiveness and tolerability of -bupropion hydrochloride extended release (XL) in major depressive disorder (MDD) patients with atypical features (AF).51 patients were prescribed bupropion XL for 8 weeks (6 visits: screening, baseline, weeks 1, 2, 4 and 8). The primary efficacy measure was a change of the Structured Interview Guide for the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale-Seasonal Affective Disorder Version (SIGH-SAD) from baseline to endpoint. Secondary efficacy measures included the SIGH-SAD atypical symptoms subscale, Clinical Global Impression-Severity (CGI-S), Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS) and Epworth Sleepiness Questionnaire (ESQ). Response or remission was defined as ≥50% reduction or ≤7 in SIGH-SAD total scores, respectively, at end of treatment.The HAM-D-29 total score reduced by 55.3% from baseline (27.3±6.5) to end of treatment (12.2±6.3) (p<0.001). Atypical symptom subscale scores also reduced by 54.5% from baseline (9.2±3.0) to end of treatment (4.2±2.8) (p<0.001). At the end of treatment, 24.4% (n=10) and 51.2% (n=21) subjects were classified as remitters and responders, respectively. The most frequently reported AEs were headache (13.7%), dry mouth (11.8%), dizziness (9.8%), and dyspepsia (9.8%).Our preliminary study indicates that bupropion XL may be beneficial in the treatment of MDD with atypical features. Adequately powered, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials are necessary to determine our results.

Comparison of cell proliferation and epigenetic modification of gene expression patterns in canine foetal fibroblasts and adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells

OBJECTIVES

This study compared rate of cell proliferation, viability, cell size, expression patterns of genes related to pluripotency and epigenetic modification between canine foetal fibroblasts (cFF) and canine adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (cAd-MSC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Proliferation pattern, cell viability as well as cell size at each passage of cFF and cAd-MSC were measured when cultures reached confluence. In addition, real-time PCR was performed to investigate expression of Dnmt1, HDAC1, OCT4, SOX2, BAX, BCL2 genes with reference to β-actin gene expression as an endogenous control in both cell lines.

RESULTS

cFF and cAd-MSC differed in number of generations, but not in doubling times, at all passages. Mean cell size of cAd-MSC was significantly smaller than that of cFF. Cell viability was significantly lower in cFFs and apoptotic level was significantly lower in cAd-MSC compared to passage-matched cFF. In the expression of genes related to pluripotency and epigenetic modification, level of HDAC1 in cAd-MSC was significantly higher than in cFF, but expression of Dnmt1 did not differ between the two groups. OCT4 and SOX2 were significantly more highly expressed in cAd-MSC compared to cFF.

CONCLUSIONS

cAd-MSC have higher stem-cell potential than cFF in terms of proliferation patterns, epigenetic modification and pluripotency, thus cAd-MSC could be more appropriate than cFF as donors of nuclei in somatic cell nuclear transfer for transgenesis.

Effect of dimethyl sulfoxide on cell cycle synchronization of goldfish caudal fin derived fibroblasts cells

Several studies have previously been conducted regarding cell cycle synchronization in mammalian somatic cells. However, limited work has been performed on the control of cell cycle stages in the somatic cells of fish. The aim of this study was to determine the cell cycle arresting effects of several dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) concentrations for different times on different cell cycle stages of goldfish caudal fin-derived fibroblasts. Results demonstrated that the cycling cells or control group (68.29%) yields significantly higher (p < 0.05) arrest in G0/G1 phase compared with the group treated for 24 h with different concentrations (0.5%, 1.0% or 1.5%) of DMSO (64.88%, 65.70%, 64.22% respectively). The cell cycle synchronization in the treatment of cells with 1.0% DMSO at 48 h (81.14%) was significantly higher than that in the groups treated for 24 h (76.82%) and the control group (77.90%). Observations showed that treatment of DMSO resulted in an increase in the proportion of cells at G0/G1 phase for 48 h of culture. However, high levels of apoptotic cells can be detected after 48 h of culture treated with 1% concentration of DMSO.

Influence of ovulation status, seasonality and embryo transfer method on development of cloned porcine embryos

To improve pig cloning efficiency, the present study evaluated the effect of ovulation status, seasonality and embryo transfer (ET) method on in vivo development of cloned porcine embryos. Cloned embryos were transferred to surrogate mothers on the same day of somatic cell nuclear transfer. In pre-ovulation stage (PO), pregnancy rate (PR) and delivery rate (DR) were 36.3% and 9.4%, respectively. In post-ovulation stage, 22.7% PR and 2.1% DR were recorded (both PR and DR are significantly higher in PO). When ET was performed during winter (December-February), spring (March-May), summer (June-August) and autumn (September-November), the PRs were 13.4%, 37.3%, 24.6% and 51.0%, while DRs were 0%, 12.7%, 4.3% and 7.8%, respectively. The highest PRs were recorded in autumn groups. However, DRs were significantly lower in autumn (7.8%) group compared with spring (12.7%) group. The PR was the lowest and no piglets were born in winter group, which might be because of the effect of low temperature during ET. To overcome the low PR in winter group, 0.25 ml straws were used for ET to minimize exposure time of embryos to ambient temperature. The straw ET group showed significantly higher PR in the winter group (23. 9%) compared with the conventional catheter-loading group (7.7%). We suggest that using PO recipient and ET in spring is the best condition for pig cloning. In addition, alternative method to reduce cold shock during ET in winter is necessary.

Effect of roscovitine-treated donor cells on development of porcine cloned embryos

Synchronization of the donor cell cycle is an important factor for successful animal cloning by nuclear transfer. To improve the efficiency of porcine cloning, in the present report, we evaluated effects of contact inhibition, serum starvation and roscovitine treatment of donor cells on in vitro and in vivo developmental potency of cloned porcine embryos. Fibroblasts derived from a porcine foetus at day 30 of gestation were isolated and cultured to 70% confluency. Then, cells were either cultured to 100% confluency for contact inhibition, or cultured in 0.5% serum for 72 h for serum starvation or with 15 μM roscovitine for 24 h. Cells were most effectively synchronized at G0/G1 in the serum starvation group (87.5%) compared with the contact inhibition and roscovitine treatment groups (76.3% and 79.9% respectively p < 0.05). However, after somatic cell nuclear transfer followed by in vitro culture, the serum starvation group showed a significantly lower blastocyst formation rate (5.6%) compared with the contact inhibition and roscovitine treatment groups (11.6% and 20.0% respectively). Differential expression of apoptosis-related genes and the level of apoptosis in each treatment group explain the variation in developmental competence among the groups. Significantly higher level of apoptosis was observed in the serum starvation group. On the other hand, the roscovitine treatment group shows the lowest level of apoptosis and the best in vitro development among the groups. Cloned embryos derived from roscovitine-treated donor cells were transferred to surrogate pigs. Three healthy live piglets were produced. In conclusion, we suggest that roscovitine treatment of donor cells improves development of cloned porcine embryos and can raise the efficiency of cloned piglet production.

Proptosis: a rare presentation of metastatic renal cell carcinoma

We present a case of a middle-aged man who was incidentally found to have right renal solid mass while investigating for his left eye proptosis. Computerised tomography (CT) scan confirmed the diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma and the tumour was successfully excised via open surgery. The histopathology examination revealed the 10x7x8 cm mass to be a clear cell type renal cell carcinoma. The rare presentation of this metastatic renal cell carcinoma, its diagnosis and management will be discussed.

Retrograde intrarenal surgery for renal stones smaller than 2 cm

INTRODUCTION

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is accepted as the gold standard treatment for renal stones that are smaller than 2 cm. Recently, retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) has been introduced as another form of treatment. We report our experience in dealing with renal stones smaller than 2 cm using RIRS as the primary treatment and following failed ESWL.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted over a five-year period on patients with stone(s) measuring less than 2 cm each and who had undergone RIRS. The patients were divided into two groups: RIRS as the primary procedure and RIRS post-ESWL.

RESULTS

A total of 46 patients underwent RIRS in our institute. The total stone clearance rate was 61 percent. The clearance rate was better for RIRS as the primary procedure when compared to RIRS as an adjunct procedure (70 percent versus 52 percent; p-value is 0.23). Patients with mid-pole stones achieved an 80 percent stone clearance rate as compared to 60 percent for those with lower pole stones. The clearance rate for upper pole stones was only 29 percent. When RIRS was the primary procedure for lower pole stones, the success rate was 75 percent, compared to 56 percent when it was used as an adjunct procedure post-ESWL.

CONCLUSION

For renal stones measuring less than 2 cm, the stone clearance rate for RIRS was as good as that for EWSL as a primary procedure and achieved a good clearance rate following the failure of ESWL.

Influence of oocyte donor and embryo recipient conditions on cloning efficiency in dogs

To determine factors that affect the efficiency of dog cloning by somatic cell nuclear transfer, the present study was performed to investigate 1) the effects of surgical history (non-operated/operated) and parity (nullipara/multipara) on the recovery of in vivo canine oocytes; 2) the effects of surgical history and parity of recipients on the pregnancy and delivery; and 3) the effects of synchronization state (AA, advanced asynchrony; SY, synchrony; RA, retarded asynchrony) between oocytes donor and recipient on the pregnancy and delivery. Oocyte recovery rate was significantly higher in non-operated dogs compared to operated dogs (93.8 vs. 89.6%, P < 0.05) and not different between nulliparous dogs and multiparous dogs. Delivery rate was also significantly higher in non-operated dogs compared to operated dogs (2.8 vs. 1.0%, P < 0.05) and in nulliparous dogs than multiparous dogs (3.0 vs. 1.7%, P < 0.05). Even though SY showed increased pregnancy and delivery rate (20.0% and 3.0%) compared to AA (15.0% and 2.0%) and RA (0.0% and 0.0%), there was no significant difference. In conclusion, we recommend non-operated dogs as experimental dogs and nulliparous dogs as recipient dogs to increase delivery rate after transfer of somatic cell nuclear transferred embryos, but further study is needed to find out appropriate synchrony status at the transfer.

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 17 mutation as a causative and susceptibility gene in parkinsonism

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of spinocerebellar ataxia type 17 (SCA17) in the development of parkinsonism.

METHOD

We screened 1,155 parkinsonian patients (931 with Parkinson disease and 224 with multiple system atrophy) and 400 normal subjects for SCA17. 99mTc-TRODAT-1 SPECT was used to evaluate the striatal dopamine transporter (DAT) status.

RESULTS

Trinucleotide expansion in the SCA17 gene was found in 10 parkinsonian patients (8 with Parkinson disease, 2 with multiple system atrophy) using 42 repeats as an upper normal limit. The repeat sizes in the patients ranged from 43 to 46, which are considered to be low-range expansions. All patients had interrupted sequences. Three probands and three asymptomatic carriers underwent 99mTc-TRODAT-1 SPECT. Striatal DAT binding was markedly reduced in all probands and mildly decreased in one asymptomatic carrier. Among the 400 normal control subjects, there was one individual with an expansion of 44 repeats, another with 43 repeats, and two with 42 repeats. Striatal DAT binding was decreased not only in the control subjects with 44 or 43 repeats, but in ones with 42 repeats, suggesting that an expansion as low as 42 repeats might constitute a susceptibility gene for parkinsonism.

CONCLUSIONS

Low-range expansion of the SCA17 gene is not a rare genetic cause of parkinsonism without ataxia in our population. Reduced penetrance or variable expressivity in low-range expansion might be an explanation for the blurred cutoff point for normal expansion in SCA17.

Effects of activin A on the in vitro development and mRNA expression of bovine embryos cultured in chemically-defined two-step culture medium

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effects of activin A on the developmental competence of in vitro fertilized (IVF) bovine embryos derived from a two-step defined culture system (C1/C2 medium) during the early or later stages of embryo development. To evaluate the effects of activin A on transcriptional levels, we analysed genes related to blastocyst hatching and implantation and to activin signalling pathway in IVF embryos. Cumulus-oocyte complexes were matured for 22 h and fertilized in vitro. Presumptive zygotes were cultured in the presence or absence of activin A during early (0-120 h, C1) or later (120-192 h, C2) stages. Although the developmental competence of embryos cultured with activin A in C1 medium was not significantly different from their corresponding controls, development to blastocysts (22.4% vs 34.7%; p < 0.05) and the blastocyst hatching rate (9.3% vs 22.4%; p < 0.05) in C2 medium supplemented with 100 ng/ml activin A were significantly higher than in the control group. To evaluate the effect of activin A on transcription, the relative expression levels of genes related to blastocyst hatching and implantation (Na/K-ATPase, E-cad and Glut-1) as well as activin signalling pathway (ActRII, ActRIIB and Smad2) were analysed. Compared to control medium, gene expression of Na/K-ATPase, E-cad, Glut-1, ActRII and ActRIIB was increased in medium supplemented with activin A. In conclusion, this study suggests that activin A, during the later stage of in vitro bovine embryo development, can enhance in vitro development of embryos by increasing hatching rates and affecting expression levels of genes related to hatching and implantation in defined culture medium.

Contrast-enhancing optical method to observe a Bonghan duct floating inside a lymph vessel of a rabbit

Novel threadlike structures, so-called Bonghan ducts (BHDs), were recently rediscovered inside large caliber lymphatic vessels using two different staining dyes in rabbits (Janus green B and Alcian blue) and fluorescent nanoparticles in rats. These three methods have the drawback of injecting chemical agents into the lymphatic vessels, which might damage the BHD and hinder further investigation of its physiological function. New methods to observe BHDs without using external chemical agents need to be developed. In the present work, we introduce a contrast enhancing optical method for in vivo observation of BHDs floating inside large caliber lymph vessels. The method uses a low-pass filter above about 650 nm, with an arrangement to minimize the light reflected from the surface of the lymph vessel. We captured films showing movement of a BHD as the animal respired. Applying the previous Alcian blue injection technique, we obtained BHD samples from the lymph vessel and observed the distribution of rod-shape nuclei (the essential feature of a BHD). BHDs can now be observed inside lymph vessels by using contrast-enhancing instrumentation without visualizing chemical agents.

In vitro fibroblast response to ultra fine grained titanium produced by a severe plastic deformation process

The in vitro response of the mouse fibroblast cell line 3T3 on the surface of ultrafine grained titanium [produced by a severe plastic deformation (SPD) process] has been studied in this work. SPD Ti showed much higher strength than the coarse grained Ti and equivalent to that of Ti-6Al-4V alloy. Better cell proliferation was observed on SPD Ti compared to conventional Ti and Ti-6Al-4V alloy. This could be attributed to the increased surface free energy by reduction in the grain size and possibly the presence of a large number of nano size grooves at the triple point junctions in SPD Ti sample. There was no significant difference in the results of cytotoxicity tests of fine and coarse grained materials.

Controlled delivery of a hydrophilic drug from a biodegradable microsphere system by supercritical anti-solvent precipitation technique

The purpose of this study was to prepare microspheres loaded with hydrophilic drug, bupivacaine HCl using poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA). Microspheres were prepared with varying the PLGA/PLLA ratio with two different levels of bupivacaine HCl (5 and 10%) using a supercritical anti-solvent (SAS) technique. Microspheres ranging from 4-10 microm in geometric mean diameter could be prepared, with high loading efficiency. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) revealed that bupivacaine HCl retained its crystalline state within the polymer and was present as a dispersion within the polymer phase after SAS processing. The release of bupivacaine HCl from biodegradable polymer microspheres was rapid up to 4 h, thereafter bupivacaine HCl was continuously and slowly released for at least 7 days according to the PLGA/PLLA ratio and the molecular weight of PLLA.

Improvement of canine somatic cell nuclear transfer procedure

The purpose of the present study on canine somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) was to evaluate the effects of fusion strength, type of activation, culture media and site of transfer on developmental potential of SCNT embryos. We also examined the potential of enucleated bovine oocytes to serve as cytoplast recipients of canine somatic cells. Firstly, we evaluated the morphological characteristics of in vivo-matured canine oocytes collected by retrograde flushing of the oviducts 72 h after ovulation. Secondly, the effectiveness of three electrical strengths (1.8, 2.3 and 3.3 kV/cm), used twice for 20 micros, on fusion of canine cytoplasts with somatic cells were compared. Then, we compared: (1) chemical versus electrical activation (a) after parthenogenetic activation or (b) after reconstruction of canine oocytes with somatic cells; (2) culture of resulting intergeneric (IG) embryos in either (a) mSOF or (b) TCM-199. The exposure time to 6-DMAP was standardized by using bovine oocytes reconstructed with canine somatic cells. Bovine oocytes were used for SCNT after a 22 h in vitro maturation interval. The fusion rate was significantly higher in the 3.3 kV/cm group than in the 1.8 and 2.3 kV/cm treatment groups. After parthenogenesis or SCNT with chemical activation, 3.4 and 5.8%, respectively, of the embryos developed to the morula stage, as compared to none of the embryos produced using electrical activation. Later developmental stages (8-16 cells) were transferred to the uterine horn of eight recipients, but no pregnancy was detected. However, IG cloned embryos (bovine cytoplast/canine somatic cell) were capable of in vitro blastocyst development. In vitro developmental competence of IG cloned embryos was improved after exposure to 6-DMAP for 4 h as compared to 0, 2 or 6h exposure, although the increase was not significantly different among culture media. In summary, for production of canine SCNT embryos, we recommend fusion at 3.3 kV/cm, chemical activation, culture in mSOF medium and transfer of presumptive zygotes to the oviduct of recipient animals. The feasibility of IG production of cloned canine embryos using bovine cytoplasts as recipient of canine somatic cells was demonstrated.

Phosphate sorption characteristics of zirconium meso-structure synthesized under different conditions

In this study, the phosphate sorption characteristics of zirconium meso-structures synthesized under different conditions were estimated. X-ray diffraction analysis, phosphate sorption isotherm test and kinetic test were performed for the zirconium meso-structures, synthesized at different inorganics/surfactant molar ratio and with different surfactant (C(x)TMA-Br) templates. From the test results, it was found that at the inorganic/surfactant molar ratio of 1/0.50 the meso-pores in the material were most uniformly and clearly formed and thus the sorption capacity and reaction rate of material were maximized. The pore size in meso-structure decreased with the increase in chain length of surfactant template used, and maximum phosphate sorption amount and reaction rate were achieved in the zirconium mesostructure synthesized with the surfactant of dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide (C12TMA-Br).

Renal autotransplantation after an latrogenic left ureteric injury

We report a case of renal autotransplantation performed successfully for an iatrogenic ureteric injury with loss of 9 cm of ureteric length. The surgical options available for management of ureteric injuries are discussed, varying from a simple re-anastomosis to the more complex renal autotransplantation.

Kondo effect in magnetic tunnel junctions

Tunneling magnetoresistance was found to be suppressed with decreasing temperature for magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) oxidized under high plasma power. A strong temperature dependence of the junction resistance was observed, along with zero-bias anomalies of dynamic resistance at low temperatures. Resistance shows a logarithmic dependence on temperature, and resistance versus temperature exhibits a scaling behavior. Our experimental data can be explained in a consistent way by the Kondo effect in the MTJs with the Kondo temperature TK=20-30 K.

Effects of fructose supplementation in chemically defined protein-free medium on development of bovine in vitro fertilized embryos

The present study evaluated the possible embryotrophic role of fructose supplementation in potassium simplex optimization medium (KSOM) on preimplantation development of bovine in vitro matured and fertilized (IVF) embryos under chemically defined conditions. In Experiment 1, the rates of cleavage (74.0-75.5%) and blastocyst formation (21.0-24.5%) were not affected by the supplementation of fructose in KSOM in absence or presence of glucose. In Experiment 2, the rates of cleavage (71.7-77.3%) and blastocyst formation (19.9-26.3%) did not differ significantly among the concentrations (0.0, 0.2, 1.5, 3.0, 5.6mM) of fructose supplementations in KSOM in presence of glucose. Moreover, the number of total ICM and TE cells, and percentage of ICM to total cell in blastocysts did not differ significantly among the concentrations of fructose supplementations in presence of glucose. In Experiment 3, the rates of cleavage (67.3-74.7%) and blastocyst formation (14.4-19.3%) did not differ significantly among the concentrations (0.0, 0.2, 1.5, 3.0, 5.6mM) of fructose supplementations in KSOM in absence of glucose. Although the number of total and ICM cells, and percentage of ICM to total cells in blastocysts did not differ significantly among the concentrations of fructose supplementations, 1.5mM fructose supplementation in absence of glucose had significantly (P<0.05) higher number of TE cells (106.2) than that of 5.6mM (84.0) supplementation. The study indicates that, fructose up to 5.6mM concentration can be used as an alternative for energy substrate in culture media without any detrimental effect on pre-implantation development in bovine IVF embryos.

Phenylpropanolamine contained in cold remedies and risk of hemorrhagic stroke

In this study, we sought to elucidate whether phenylpropanolamine (PPA) in cold remedies (small and divided doses) increases the risk of hemorrhagic stroke (HS). PPA exposure significantly increased the risk, and the risk was much higher in women. In women, linear trends were also found in recency, duration, and dosage of PPA exposure. PPA contained in cold remedies increases the risk of HS, particularly in women.

Vertical profile of algal distribution during aeration prior to intake tower for safe drinking water

Blue-green algae or cyanobacteria comprise a diverse group of organisms, all of which generate potent natural toxins, as well as characteristic odours. In particular, blue-green algae, such as Microcystis and Anabaena, are often detected abundantly in surface water used as a drinking water resource. In order to confirm our ability to provide safe drinking water even during a water bloom, we have conducted an investigation into the vertical distribution of algae during aeration prior to entry into the intake tower at a dam site. Our analysis of the vertical algal distribution during aeration indicated that aeration occurring at the intake tower exerts a significant influence on the safety of the drinking water. It was determined that the discontinuation of aeration and an increase in the depth at which water intake is conducted, constitutes a viable strategy for the maintenance of toxin- and odour-free drinking water, particularly during water bloom events.

Agricultural Employers' Hiring and Safety Practices for Adolescent Workers

The goal of the "Safety Training for Employers and Supervisors of Adolescent Farmworkers" initiative is to improve the occupational health and safety knowledge and practices of agricultural employers and supervisors responsible for employees, ages 14 to 17 years. Surveys were sent to members of the National Council of Agricultural Employers and the Washington Growers League to measure attitudes regarding adolescent employees, current hiring and training practices, and future intentions. More than half of the respondents hire adolescents. Two-thirds were male, nearly three-quarters of the respondents had college or post-graduate degrees, and more than half were 50 years or older. The majority of respondents had positive perceptions of adolescents in terms of dependability, helpfulness, and work ethic. Among those who currently hire young workers, the most common reasons were to provide a job for children of friends and family and because they can work part-time to fill a labor demand. Among those not hiring adolescents, the most common reason was concern about child labor regulations and associated tasks (e.g., paperwork, monitoring hours). Respondents use a variety of safety training resources, especially posters and safety meetings. For the future, they expect to need more handout materials and training videos. Study results provide insights into barriers to the employment of young workers and suggest methods by which agricultural safety specialists can best assist those employers and producers who are willing to hire adolescents into agricultural work settings.

Specialist registrars in acute medicine receiving patients in the resuscitation room: a key component in the training curriculum

A key component of training in Acute Medicine is the assessment and initial resuscitation of severely ill medical patients. The curriculum for General Internal Medicine (Acute Medicine) states that all specialists in Acute Medicine should attain Level 3 competencies in all emergency presentations.1 Different training programmes have variable exposure to the emergency department, to which the majority of these patients present. One module, currently being developed at City Hospital, Birmingham, is for the Acute Medicine Specialist Registrars (SpRs) to attend all medical alerts in Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department. This means that the SpR works as part of the receiving team, seeing patients first hand, rather than taking secondary referrals. At our hospital over 80% of alerts brought in the resuscitation room are medical emergencies.