Cystic fibrosis precision therapeutics: Emerging considerations

Small molecules that address fundamental defects underlying cystic fibrosis (CF), including modulators such as the approved drugs ivacaftor, lumacaftor, tezacaftor, and elexacaftor, have advanced dramatically over the past few years and are transforming care and prognosis among individuals with this disease. The new treatment strategies are predicated on established scientific insight concerning pathogenesis, and applying "personalized" or "precision" interventions for specific abnormalities of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). Even with the advent of highly effective triple drug combinations-which hold great promise for the majority of patients with CF worldwide-barriers to precision therapy remain. These include refractory CFTR variants (premature truncation codons, splice defects, large indels, severe missense mutations, and others) not addressed by available modulators, and access to leading-edge therapeutic compounds for patients with ultrarare forms of CF. In addition to describing the remarkable progress that has occurred regarding CF precision medicine, this review outlines some of the remaining challenges. The CF experience is emblematic of many conditions for which personalized interventions are actively being sought.

MicroRNA miR-252 targets mbt to control the developmental growth of Drosophila

Developmental growth is an intricate process involving the coordinated regulation of the expression of various genes, and microRNAs (miRNAs) play crucial roles in diverse processes throughout animal development. The ecdysone-responsive miRNA, miR-252, is normally upregulated during the pupal and adult stages of Drosophila development. Here, we found that overexpression of miR-252 in the larval fat body decreased total tissue mass through a reduction in both cell size and cell number, causing a concomitant decrease in larval size. Furthermore, miR-252 overexpression led to a delayed larval-to-pupal transition with defective anterior spiracle eversion, as well as a decrease in adult size and mass. Conversely, adult flies lacking miR-252 showed an increase in mass compared with control flies. We found that miR-252 directly targeted mbt, encoding a p21-activated kinase, to repress its expression. Notably, co-overexpression of mbt rescued the developmental and growth defects associated with miR-252 overexpression, indicating that mbt is a biologically relevant target of miR-252. Overall, our data support a role for the ecdysone/miR-252/mbt regulatory axis in growth control during Drosophila development.

Nutrient concentration in sediments accumulated in pre-treatment basins of urban LID technologies

In this study, the contribution of pre-treatment basins of low impact development (LID) technologies to nutrient reduction performance was evaluated by understanding the distribution of nutrient in sediments accumulated in each system. The captured sediments were mostly silt to medium sand ranging from 9% to 92% of the sediments collected. Greater average N and P concentrations were found in silt particles amounting to 345 mg/kg and 696 mg/kg, respectively compared to sand and gravel. Although, N concentrations in accumulated sediments were found to be highly variable at different particle sizes (CV: 0.24 to 0.77) compared to P concentration (CV: 0.08 to 0.36) attributed to effective P treatment mechanism through deposition compared to complex nitrogen removal mechanisms. In addition, the difference between N and P concentrations of sediments collected in the pre-treatment basins of LID technologies and in-situ soil was attributed to the continuous pollutant input to the LID technologies during storm events. The study proved that pre-treatment basins of stormwater LID technologies reinforced the nutrient removal performances through sediment retention. The findings of this research may be used to design pre-treatment basins of LID technologies considering nutrients as a limiting factor.

Validating the Automatic Independent Component Analysis of DSA

Time-density curve analysis of DSA provides useful blood flow information. However, manually selecting the ROI is time-consuming. We developed an automatic technique to provide arterial, capillary, and venous vasculatures with corresponding time-density curves. This study retrospectively analyzed the data of 36 patients with unilateral carotid stenosis. We found that the full width at half maximum of the time-density curve for the automatically segmented capillary vasculature is a suitable representation of the cerebral circulation time.

Non-obstructive vas deferens and epididymis loss in cystic fibrosis rats

This study utilizes morphological and mechanistic endpoints to characterize the onset of bilateral atresia of the vas deferens in a recently derived cystic fibrosis (CF) rat model. Embryonic reproductive structures, including Wolffian (mesonephric) duct, Mullerian (paramesonephric) duct, mesonephric tubules, and gonad, were shown to mature normally through late embryogenesis, with involution of the vas deferens and/or epididymis typically occurring between birth and postnatal day 4 (P4), although timing and degree of atresia varied. No evidence of mucus obstruction, which is associated with pathology in other CF-affected tissues, was observed at any embryological or postnatal time point. Reduced epididymal coiling was noted post-partum and appeared to coincide with, or predate, loss of more distal vas deferens structure. Remarkably, α smooth muscle actin expression in cells surrounding duct epithelia was markedly diminished in CF animals by P2.5 when compared to wild type counterparts, indicating reduced muscle development. RNA-seq and immunohistochemical analysis of affected tissues showed disruption of developmental signaling by Wnt and related pathways. The findings have relevance to vas deferens loss in humans with CF, where timing of ductular damage is not well characterized and underlying mechanisms are not understood. If vas deferens atresia in humans begins in late gestation and continues through early postnatal life, emerging modulator therapies given perinatally might preserve and enhance integrity of the reproductive tract, which is otherwise absent or deficient in 97% of males with cystic fibrosis.

Nutrient ileal digestibility evaluation of dried mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) larvae compared to three animal protein by-products in growing pigs

Objective

This study was to investigate the nutrient ileal digestibility of dried mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) larvae and compare with those of three animal protein by-products in growing pigs.

Methods

A total of 12 crossbred ([Landrace×Yorkshire]×Duroc) growing pigs with average body weights of 24.12±0.68 kg were surgically equipped with simple T-cannulas after being deprived of feed for 24 h according to published surgical procedures. These pigs had a recovery period of two weeks. A total of 12 pigs were assigned to individual metabolic crates and allotted to one of four treatments with 3 replicates in a fully randomized design. Dietary treatments included the following: i) Fish meal, corn-vegetable by-product basal diet+9.95% fish meal; ii) Meat meal, corn-vegetable by-product basal diet+9.95% meat meal; iii) Poultry meal, corn-vegetable by-product basal diet+9.95% poultry meal; iv) Tenebrio molitor, corn-vegetable by-product basal diet+9.95% dried Tenebrio molitor larvae.

Results

Results showed that the apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of Lys was higher (p<0.05) in pigs fed Tenebrio molitor diet than that in pigs fed fish meal diet. Pigs fed Tenebrio molitor diet showed increased (p<0.05) AID of His and Arg compared to pigs fed Fish meal or Meat meal diet. The AID of Cys was increased (p<0.05) in pigs fed poultry meal and Tenebrio molitor diets compared to that in pigs fish meal diet. Pigs fed meat meal, poultry meal, and Tenebrio molitor diets showed higher (p<0.05) standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of total energy compared to pigs fed fish meal diet. The SID of Arg was higher (p<0.05) in pigs fed Tenebrio molitor diet than that in pigs fed fish meal or meat meal diet. Furthermore, pigs fed poultry meal or Tenebrio molitor diets showed increased (p<0.05) SID of Cys compared to pigs fed fish meal diet.

Conclusion

In conclusion, providing pigs with diets that contained Tenebrio molitor larvae meal improved AID and SID of nutrients as well as essential and non-essential amino acids. The digestibility of dried mealworm larvae protein and its utilization in vivo are also good. Therefore, dried mealworm larvae protein can be used as protein source at 10% level in growing pigs.

Implications of CaCl2 application to plants in LID facilities

Low impact development (LID) technologies mimic the natural water cycle through the physico-chemical and biological interactions of plants, filter media and soil, and microorganisms, thereby reducing the release of pollutants. In LID facilities, plants carry out photosynthesis, facilitate microbial growth, and uptake pollutants contained in stormwater runoff. However, de-icers (CaCl₂) used to melt snow during winter slow the growth of plants and even increase plant mortality. In addition, de-icers change the soil structure, causing changes in soil content and affecting the growth of plants and microorganisms. Therefore, this study examined the effects of CaCl₂ on the resistance of plants, the removal efficiency of non-point source pollutants, and water circulation. The mortality rate of the tree and shrubs caused by CaCl₂ was found to be in the order of Rhododendron indicum > Spiraea prunifolia var. simpliciflora > Metasequoia glyptostroboides. For herbaceous plants, mortality rate was in the order of Pratia pedunculata > Aquilegia japonica > Tagetes erecta > Sedum makinoi aurea > Hosta longipes > Dianthus chinensis > Acorus gramineus > Liriope platyphylla. In addition, it was found that the amount of chlorophyll decreases with high concentrations of CaCl₂. The findings of this research will be useful for plant selection considering CaCl₂ concentrations applied to paved areas during the winter.

Influence of various levels of milk by-products in weaner diets on growth performance, blood urea nitrogen, diarrhea incidence, and pork quality of weaning to finishing pigs

OBJECTIVE

This study was conducted to evaluate various levels of milk by-product in weaning pig diet on growth performance, blood profiles, carcass characteristics and economic performance for weaning to finishing pigs.

METHODS

A total of 160 weaning pigs ([Yorkshire×Landrace]×Duroc), average 7.01±1.32 kg body weight (BW), were allotted to four treatments by BW and sex in 10 replications with 4 pigs per pen in a randomized complete block design. Pigs were fed each treatment diet with various levels of milk by-product (Phase 1: 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%, Phase 2: 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15%, respectively). During weaning period (0 to 5 week), weaning pigs were fed experimental diets and all pigs were fed the same commercial feed during growing-finishing period (6 to 14 week).

RESULTS

In the growth trial, BW, average daily gain (ADG), and average daily feed intake (ADFI) in the nursery period (5 weeks) increased as the milk by-product level in the diet increased (linear, p<0.05). Linear increases of pig BW with increasing the milk product levels were observed until late growing period (linear, p = 0.01). However, there were no significant differences in BW at the finishing periods, ADG, ADFI, and gain:feed ratio during the entire growing-finishing periods. The blood urea nitrogen concentration had no significant difference among dietary treatments. High inclusion level of milk by-product in weaner diet decreased crude protein (quadratic, p = 0.05) and crude ash (Linear, p = 0.05) of Longissimus muscle. In addition, cooking loss and water holding capacity increased with increasing milk product levels in the weaner diets (linear, p<0.01; p = 0.05). High milk by-product treatment had higher feed cost per weight gain compared to non-milk by-products treatment (linear, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Supplementation of 10% to 5% milk by-products in weaning pig diet had results equivalent to the 30% to 15% milk treatment and 0% milk by-product supplementation in the diet had no negative influence on growth performance of finishing pigs.

Randomized clinical trial of immersive virtual reality tour of the operating theatre in children before anaesthesia

Background

A virtual reality (VR) tour of the operating theatre before anaesthesia could provide a realistic experience for children. This study was designed to determine whether a preoperative VR tour could reduce preoperative anxiety in children.

Methods

Children scheduled for elective surgery under general anaesthesia were randomized into a control or VR group. The control group received conventional information regarding anaesthesia and surgery. The VR group watched a 4-min video showing Pororo, the famous little penguin, visiting the operating theatre and explaining what is in it. The main outcome was preoperative anxiety, assessed using the modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale (m-YPAS) before entering the operating theatre. Secondary outcomes included induction compliance checklist (ICC) and procedural behaviour rating scale (PBRS) scores during anaesthesia.

Results

A total of 69 children were included in the analysis, 35 in the control group and 34 in the VR group. Demographic data and induction time were similar in the two groups. Children in the VR group had a significantly lower m-YPAS score than those in the control group (median 31·7 (i.q.r. 23·3–37·9) and 51·7 (28·3–63·3) respectively; P &lt; 0·001). During anaesthesia, the VR group had lower ICC and PBRS scores than the control group.

Conclusion

This preoperative VR tour of the operating theatre was effective in alleviating preoperative anxiety and increasing compliance during induction of anaesthesia in children undergoing elective surgery. Registration number: UMIN000025232 (http://www.umin.ac.jp/ctr).

Effect of Dietary sugar beet pulp supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, fecal Microflora, blood profiles and Diarrhea incidence in weaning pigs

Background

In 2006, the European Union (EU) has decided to forbid use of antibiotics as growth promoters. Although many researches had been conducted about fiber source as alternatives of antibiotics, there are still lack of reports in the literature about the optimum level of sugar beet pulp supplementation, affecting growth performance and nutrient digestibility in weaning pigs. Therefore, different level of sugar beet pulp was added to diets to determine the effects of sugar beet pulp supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, fecal microflora, blood profile and incidence of diarrhea in weaning pigs.

Methods

A total of 200 weaning pigs [(Yorkshire × Landrace) × Duroc], averaging 9.01 ± 1.389 kg of initial body weight were, allotted to 5 treatments in a randomized complete block (RCB) design. Each treatment was composed of 4 replicates with 10 pigs per pen. The treatments were control treatment: Corn-SBM basal diet + ZnO (phase 1: 0.05%; phase 2; 0.03%) and four different levels of sugar beet pulp were supplemented in Corn-SBM basal diet (3, 6, 9 or 12%). Two phase feeding programs (phase 1: 1–2 weeks; phase 2: 3–5 weeks) were used for 5 week of growth trial.

Results

In feeding trial, there were no significant differences in growth performance and incidence of diarrhea among treatments. The E.coli counts were not significantly different among dietary treatments but linear response was observed in Lactobacillus counts as sugar beet pulp supplementation increased (P < 0.05). In addition, IGF-1, IgA and IgG were not affected by dietary treatments. However, the BUN concentration was decreased when pigs were fed the treatments of diets with SBP compared to that of control treatment (P < 0.05). In nutrient digestibility, crude fiber and NDF digestibilities were improved as the sugar beet pulp increased (P < 0.05). However, digestibilities of crude ash, crude fat, crude fiber and nitrogen retention were not affected by dietary sugar beet pulp levels.

Conclusion

This experiment demonstrated that sugar beet pulp can be supplemented in weaning pigs’ diet instead of ZnO to prevent postweaning diarrhea without any detrimental effect on growth performance.

Effect of rapeseed meal supplementation to gestation diet on reproductive performance, blood profiles and milk composition of sows

Objective

This experiment evaluated the effect of dietary supplementation levels of rapeseed meal (RSM) in gestation diets on reproductive performance, blood profiles, milk composition of sows, and growth of their progeny.

Methods

A total of 55 mixed-parity sows (Yorkshire×Landrace; average parity = 3.82) with an initial body weight (BW) of 193.0 kg were used in this experiment. Sows were allotted to one of 5 treatments at breeding based on BW and backfat thickness in a completely randomized design. Treatments consisted of dietary RSM supplementation levels (0%, 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12%) in gestation diets. During lactation all sows were fed a common lactation diet with no RSM supplementation.

Results

Body weight, backfat thickness, litter size, lactation feed intake, and milk composition of sows, and growth of their progeny were not different among dietary treatments. In blood profiles, a quadratic increase (Quadratic, p<0.05) in serum triiodothyronine (T3) concentration and a linear increase (Linear, p<0.01) in serum thyroxine (T4) concentration were observed at d 110 of gestation as dietary RSM supplementation levels increased. However, serum T3 and T4 concentrations in lactating sows and their piglets were not affected by RSM supplementation of gestation diets. Concentrations of serum total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein cholesterol in sows were not influenced by dietary treatments, whereas serum glucose level in sows decreased linearly at d 110 of gestation (Linear, p<0.05) by increasing dietary RSM supplementation in gestation diets.

Conclusion

The RSM could be supplemented to gestation diets up to 12% with no detrimental effects on reproductive performance and growth of their progeny. However, increasing supplementation levels of RSM in gestation diets may increase serum T3 and T4 concentrations and decrease serum glucose concentration of sows in late gestation.

Various levels of copra meal supplementation with β-Mannanase on growth performance, blood profile, nutrient digestibility, pork quality and economical analysis in growing-finishing pigs

BACKGROUND

To reduce use of main feed ingredient like corn, soy bean meal (SBM) and wheat, alternative ingredients has been studied like copra meal (CM). Production amount of CM which has been high makes CM to be an alternative feed stuff. However, low digestibility on AA and low energy content by high fiber content can be an obstacle for using CM. This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of CM supplementation with β-mannanase on growth performance, blood profile, nutrient digestibility, pork quality and economic analysis in growing-finishing pigs.

METHODS

A total of 100 growing pigs ([Yorkshire × Landrace] × Duroc) averaging 31.22 ± 2.04 kg body weight were allotted to 5 different treatments by weight and sex in a randomized complete block (RCB) design in 5 replicate with 4 pigs per pen. Treatments were 1) Control (corn-SBM based diet + 0.1% of β-mannanase (800 IU)), 2) CM10 (10% copra meal + 0.1% β-mannanase (800 IU)), 3) CM15 (15% copra meal + 0.1% β-mannanase (800 IU)), 4) CM20 (20% copra meal + 0.1% β-mannanase (800 IU)) and 5) CM25 (25% copra meal + 0.1% β-mannanase (800 IU)). Four phase feeding program was used: growing I (week 1-3), growing II (week 4-6), finishing I (week 7-9) and finishing II (week 10-12).

RESULTS

In growth performance, there was no significant difference among treatments during whole experimental period. In growingI phase, G:F ratio tended to increase when CM was increased (P = 0.05), but ADG and ADFI tended to decrease in finishingII phase (linear, P = 0.08). Also, increasing CM reduced ADG (linear, P = 0.02) and feed efficiency (linear, P = 0.08) during the whole finishing period. In blood profiles, BUN was linearly increased as CM increased (linear, P = 0.02) at growingII period. In digestibility trial, there was no significant difference in dry matter, crude fat, crude ash and nitrogen digestibility. However, crude protein digestibility was decreased linearly (linear, P = 0.02). In economic analysis, feed cost per weight gain and total feed cost per pig were reduced in overall period when CM was provided by 25% (linear, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

CM with 0.1% of β-mannanase (800 IU) could be supplemented instead of corn and SBM up to 25% without detrimental effects on growth performance and pork quality of growing-finishing pigs.

Effects of different space allowances on growth performance, blood profile and pork quality in a grow-to-finish production system

Objective

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the optimal space allowance on growth performance, blood profile and pork quality of growing-finishing pigs.

Methods

A total of ninety crossbred pigs [(Yorkshire×Landrace)×Duroc, 30.25±1.13 kg] were allocated into three treatments (0.96: four pigs/pen, 0.96 m²/pig; 0.80: five pigs/pen, 0.80 m²/pig; 0.69: six pigs/pen, 0.69 m²/pig) in a randomized complete block design. Pigs were housed in balanced sex and had free access to feed in all phases for 14 weeks (growing phase I, growing phase II, finishing phase I, and finishing phase II).

Results

There was no statistical difference in growing phase, but a linear decrease was observed on average daily gain (ADG, p<0.01), average daily feed intake (ADFI, p<0.01), and body weight (BW, p<0.01) with decreasing space allowance in late finishing phase. On the other hand, a quadratic effect was observed on gain to feed ratio in early finishing phase (p<0.03). Consequently, overall ADG, ADFI, and final BW linearly declined in response to decreased space allowance (p<0.01). The pH of pork had no significant difference in 1 hour after slaughter, whereas there was a linear decrease in 24 h after slaughter with decreasing space allowance. Floor area allowance did not affect pork colors, but shear force linearly increased as floor space decreased (p<0.01). There was a linear increase in serum cortisol concentration on 14 week (p<0.05) with decreased space allocation. Serum IgG was linearly ameliorated as space allowance increased on 10 week (p<0.05) and 14 week (p<0.01).

Conclusion

Data from current study indicated that stress derived from reduced space allowance deteriorates the immune system as well as growth performance of pigs, resulting in poor pork quality. Recommended adequate space allowance in a grow-to-finish production system is more than 0.80 m²/pig for maximizing growth performance and production efficiency.

Effect of dietary energy levels and phase feeding by protein levels on growth performance, blood profiles and carcass characteristics in growing-finishing pigs

Background

Providing of insufficient nutrients limits the potential growth of pig, while feeding of excessive nutrients increases the economic loss and causes environment pollution. For these reasons, phase feeding had been introduced in swine farm for improving animal production. This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary energy levels and phase feeding by protein levels on growth performance, blood profiles and carcass characteristics in growing-finishing pigs.

Methods

A total of 128 growing pigs ([Yorkshire × Landrace] × Duroc), averaging 26.62 ± 3.07 kg body weight, were assigned in a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement with 4 pigs per pen. The first factor was two dietary energy level (3,265 kcal of ME/kg or 3,365 kcal of ME/kg), and the second factor was four different levels of dietary protein by phase feeding (1growing(G)-2finishing(F) phases, 2G-2F phases, 2G-3F phases and 2G-3F phases with low CP requirement).

Results

In feeding trial, there was no significant difference in growth performance. The BUN concentration was decreased as dietary protein level decreased in 6 week and blood creatinine was increased in 13 week when pigs were fed diets with different dietary energy level. The digestibility of crude fat was improved as dietary energy levels increased and excretion of urinary nitrogen was reduced when low protein diet was provided. Chemical compositions of longissimus muscle were not affected by dietary treatments. In backfat thickness (P₂) at 13 week, pigs fed high energy diet had thicker backfat thickness (P = 0.06) and pigs fed low protein diet showed the trend of backfat thinness reduction (P = 0.09). In addition, water holding capacity was decreased (P = 0.01) and cooking loss was increased (P = 0.07) as dietary protein level reduced. When pigs were fed high energy diet with low subdivision of phase feeding, days to 120 kg market weight was reached earlier compared to other treatments.

Conclusion

Feeding the low energy diet and subdivision of growing-finishing phase by dietary protein levels had no significant effect on growth performance and carcass characteristics. Also, phase feeding with low energy and low protein diet had no negative effects on growth performance, carcass characteristics but economical profits was improved.

Evaluation of dry feeding and liquid feeding to lactating sows under high temperature environment

Background

Liquid feeding system has been introduced to domestic swine farms, but negative cognition about liquid feeding system has been remained for feed waste decay related with poor management and microbial contamination. For these reasons, this study was conducted to evaluate the effects of feeding method in lactating sows.

Methods

A total of 30 mixed-parity (average 4.13) lactating sows (Yorkshire × Landrace) with an initial BW of 218.8 ± 19.5kg was used in a 3 week trial. Sows were allotted to 1 of 2 treatments in a completely randomized design by their body weight, backfat thickness, parity and alive litter weight. One of treatments was dry feeding and the other was liquid feeding (water to feed ratio, 1:1). Experimental diets contained 3265 kcal ME/kg, 12.6 % CP, 5.76 % EE, 1.09 % total lysine, 0.25 % total methionine, as fed basis.

Results

Dry feeding treatment had high body weight loss rather than liquid feeding treatment (P = 0.04). Dry feeding treatment had tendency to increase litter weight at 21d of lactation (P = 0.06) and litter weight gain (P = 0.04) during lactation period (0–3 week). Sows fed dry feeding method made milk containing high content of casein and total solid rather than sows fed liquid feeding method (P = 0.04). In addition, dry feeding treatment had tendency to higher content of milk fat, protein and solid not fat on 21d of lactation (P = 0.07). Sows fed dry feeding type also showed higher milk energy content in milk of 21d lactation (P = 0.05). Furthermore, liquid feeding treatment showed high occurrence in feed waste during lactation period (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Dry feeding method was more suitable feeding method to lactating sows under high temperature environment like lactating barn.

Peritherapeutic Hemodynamic Changes of Carotid Stenting Evaluated with Quantitative DSA in Patients with Carotid Stenosis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Quantitative data from DSA have become important tools for understanding hemodynamic changes of intracranial lesions. In this study, we evaluated 8 hemodynamic parameters in patients before and after carotid artery angioplasty.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

DSA images of 34 patients with carotid stenosis who underwent angioplasty and stent placement were retrospectively analyzed. Eleven ROIs (M1, M2, A1, A2, the parietal vein, superior sagittal sinus, internal jugular vein, and 4 in the ICA) were selected on color-coded DSA. Eight hemodynamic parameters (bolus arrival time, TTP, relative TTP, full width at half maximum, wash-in slope, washout slope, maximum enhancement, and area under the curve) were measured from the time-concentration curves of these ROIs. The dependent t test for paired samples was applied to these parameters before and after stent placement.

RESULTS

We found that the treatment significantly reduced TTP, relative TTP, bolus arrival time, and washout slope at all arterial ROIs and full width at half maximum and area under the curve at some arterial ROIs. Bolus arrival time was significantly reduced after treatment for all arterial ROIs, the parietal vein, and the superior sagittal sinus. The maximum enhancement and wash-in slope did not show significant changes after treatment. After treatment, the relative TTP from the ICA to M1, M2, and the parietal vein returned to normal values.

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to TTP and relative TTP, other parameters can be used to evaluate peritherapeutic cerebral hemodynamic changes. Bolus arrival time has the potential to evaluate brain circulation at arterial and venous sites, especially when TTP cannot be measured because of an incomplete time-concentration curve.

Supplementation of Dried Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor larva) on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility and Blood Profiles in Weaning Pigs

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of dried mealworm (Tenebrio molitor larva) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and blood profiles in weaning pigs. A total of 120 weaning pigs (28±3 days and 8.04±0.08 kg of body weight) were allotted to one of five treatments, based on sex and body weight, in 6 replicates with 4 pigs per pen by a randomized complete block design. Supplementation level of dried mealworm was 0%, 1.5%, 3.0%, 4.5%, or 6.0% in experimental diet as treatment. Two phase feeding programs (phase I from 0 day to 14 day, phase II from 14 day to 35 day) were used in this experiment. All animals were allowed to access diet and water ad libitum. During phase I, increasing level of dried mealworm in diet linearly improved the body weight (p<0.01), average daily gain (ADG) (p<0.01) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) (p<0.01). During phase II, ADG also tended to increase linearly when pigs were fed higher level of dried mealworm (p = 0.08). In addition, increasing level of dried mealworm improved the ADG (p<0.01), ADFI (p<0.05) and tended to increase gain to feed ratio (p = 0.07) during the whole experimental period. As dried mealworm level was increased, nitrogen retention and digestibility of dry matter as well as crude protein were linearly increased (p = 0.05). In the results of blood profiles, decrease of blood urea nitrogen (linear, p = 0.05) and increase of insulin-like growth factor (linear, p = 0.03) were observed as dried mealworm was increased in diet during phase II. However, there were no significant differences in immunoglobulin A (IgA) and IgG concentration by addition of dried mealworm in the growth trial. Consequently, supplementation of dried mealworm up to 6% in weaning pigs’ diet improves growth performance and nutrient digestibility without any detrimental effect on immune responses.

Quality of life of nasopharyngeal cancer survivors in China

PURPOSE

We assessed the quality of life (qol) of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (npc) survivors with a survival time of more than 2 years in Fujian, China, and we analyzed factors influencing qol.

METHODS

We calculated the prevalence of psychological distress and radiotherapy (rt)-induced symptoms in 216 npc survivors who participated in a cross-sectional survey. The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (version 3.0) was used to assess the qol of npc survivors. Multiple linear regression was applied to analyze the factors influencing qol.

RESULTS

The prevalence rates of rt-induced symptoms and psychological problems were 11.58% (95% ci: 7.21% to 15.58%) for difficulty in swallowing, 17.59% (95% ci: 12.51% to 22.67%) for mouth dryness or sores, 13.89% (95% ci: 9.28% to 18.50%) for nasal dryness or congestion, 18.52% (95% ci: 13.34% to 23.70%) for fatigue, 11.11% (95% ci: 6.92% to 15.30%) for frequent dizziness, 18.06% (95% ci: 12.93% to 23.19%) for decline in hearing, 14.81% (95% ci: 10.07% to 19.55%) for poor sleep quality, 18.52% (95% ci: 13.34% to 23.70%) for worry about disease recurrence, 18.98% (95% ci: 13.75% to 24.21%) for anxiety, and 25.00% (95% ci: 19.23% to 30.77%) for depression. Mean survival times were 4.32 ± 2.63 years in patients with mouth dryness or sores, 4.26 ± 2.90 years in patients with fatigue, and 5.60 ± 2.94 years in patients with a decline in hearing. The mean global qol score was 74.21 (95% ci: 72.22 to 76.20). At a significance level of α = 0.05, the factors influencing qol were age (p = 0.032), education level (p = 0.001), anxiety score (p < 0.001), depression score (p < 0.001), mouth dryness or sores (p < 0.001), fatigue (p = 0.027), and disease stage (p = 0.044).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence rates of mouth dryness or sores, fatigue, decline in hearing, depression, and anxiety were high in npc survivors with a survival time of more than 2 years. These rt-induced symptoms and psychological problems can last for many years after rt. The qol of the npc survivors was good. Factors influencing qol were age, education level, anxiety, depression, mouth dryness or sores, fatigue, and disease stage. Our results suggest that during clinical treatment, doctors should minimize the radiation dose to the ears of patients. In addition, our results emphasize the importance of providing oral and ear nursing and psychological care to npc survivors.

Correlation of plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor and metabolic profiles in drug-naïve patients with bipolar II disorder after a twelve-week pharmacological intervention

OBJECTIVE

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is thought to be involved in the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder (BD) and metabolic syndrome. We investigated the correlation between plasma BDNF with mood symptoms and metabolic indices in patients with BD-II over a 12-week pharmacological intervention.

METHOD

Drug-naïve patients with BD-II (n=117) were recruited. Metabolic profiles [cholesterol, triglyceride, HbA1C, fasting serum glucose, body mass index (BMI)] and plasma BDNF wtrun "tblautotrun "tblsctrun "tbl_contere measured at baseline and 2, 8, and 12 weeks after beginning medication. To adjust within-subject dependence over repeated assessments, multiple linear regressions with generalized estimating equation methods were used.

RESULTS

Seventy-six (65.0%) patients completed the intervention. Plasma BDNF levels were significantly associated with BMI (P=9.6E-5), low-density lipoprotein (P=0.034) and total (P=0.001) cholesterol, but not with the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale-17 and Young Mania Rating Scale scores over the 12-week treatment.

CONCLUSION

We found initial evidence of a positive correlation between plasma BDNF levels and BMI, low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol in drug-naïve patients with BD-II. The specific function of BDNF in regulating and maintaining peripheral metabolic health requires additional investigation.

Comparison of the treatment performance of hybrid constructed wetlands treating stormwater runoff

This study was conducted to compare the treatment performance of two hybrid constructed wetlands (CWs) in treating stormwater runoff. The hybrid CWs were composed of a combination of free water surface (FWS) and horizontal subsurface flow (HSSF) CWs. Based on the results, strong correlation exists between potential runoff impacts and stormwater characteristics; however, the low correlations also suggest that not only the monitored parameters contribute to stormwater event mean concentrations (EMC) of pollutants, but other factors should also be considered as well. In the hydraulic and treatment performance of the hybrid CWs, a small surface area to catchment area (SA/CA) ratio, receiving a high concentration of influent EMC, will find it hard to achieve great removal efficiency; also a large SA/CA ratio, receiving low concentration of influent EMC, will find it hard to achieve great removal efficiency. With this, SA/CA ratio and influent characteristics such as EMC or load should be considered among the design factors of CWs. The performance data of the two CWs were used to consider the most cost-effective design of a hybrid CW. The optimum facility capacity (ratio of total runoff volume to storage volume) that is applicable for a target volume reduction and removal efficiency was provided in this study.

A polymorphism in the porcine miR-208b is associated with microRNA biogenesis and expressions of SOX-6 and MYH7 with effects on muscle fibre characteristics and meat quality

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) encoded by the myosin heavy chain (MHC) genes are muscle-specific miRNAs (myomiRs) and regulate the expression of MHC isoforms in skeletal muscle. These miRNAs have been implicated in muscle fibre types and their characteristics by affecting the heterogeneity of myosin. In pigs, miR-208b and miR-499 are embedded in introns of MYH7 and MYH7b respectively. Here, we identified a novel single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in intron 30 of MYH7 by which porcine miR-208b is encoded. Based on the association study using a total of 487 pigs including Berkshire (n = 164), Landrace (n = 121) and Yorkshire (n = 202), the miR-208b SNP (g.17104G>A) had significant effects on the proportions of types I and IIb fibre numbers (P < 0.010) among muscle fibre characteristics and on drip loss (P = 0.012) in meat quality traits. Moreover, the SNP affected the processing of primary miR-208b into precursor miR-208b with a marginal trend towards significance (P = 0.053), thereby leading to significant changes in the levels of mature miR-208b (P = 0.009). These SNP-dependent changes in mature miR-208b levels were negatively correlated with the expression levels of its target gene, SOX-6 (P = 0.038), and positively associated with the expression levels of its host gene, MYH7 (P = 0.046). Taken together, our data suggest that the porcine miR-208b SNP differentially represses the expression of SOX-6 by regulating miRNA biogenesis, thereby affecting the expression of MYH7 and the traits of muscle fibre characteristics and meat quality.

The influence of chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity on psychological distress and sleep disturbance in cancer patients

PURPOSE

In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effects of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity (cipn) on psychological distress and sleep quality in cancer patients.

METHODS

A total of 706 cancer patients were interviewed for the study. In the 4th week of treatment, patient cipn was measured using the Patient Neurotoxicity Questionnaire (pnq). The sleep quality and psychological distress of patients were measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (psqi), the Distress Thermometer (dt), and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (hads). Multiple logistic regression was applied to determine the independent effects of cipn on psychological distress and sleep disturbance in the patients.

RESULTS

THESE CORRELATION COEFFICIENTS WERE OBTAINED: 0.387 (p < 0.0001) between the pnq total score and the dt score, 0.386 (p < 0.0001) between the pnq total score and the hads Depression score, 0.379 (p < 0.0001) between the pnq total score and the hads Anxiety score, and 0.399 (p < 0.0001) between the pnq total score and the psqi global score. The prevalence rates of distress, depression, anxiety, and poor sleep quality in the five pnq grades were statistically significantly different (p < 0.0001). After controlling for age, sex, education level, social supports, fatigue, disease stage, and tumour site, the pnq grades were found to be associated with depression (p < 0.0001), anxiety (p < 0.0001), and poor sleep quality (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity negatively affects psychological distress and sleep quality in cancer patients treated with chemotherapy. High pnq grades were significantly associated with poor psychological status and sleep quality. Our results emphasize the importance of assessing peripheral neuropathies during chemotherapy and of adjusting treatment plans based on assessment results.

Sensitivity and specificity of the Distress Thermometer in screening for distress in long-term nasopharyngeal cancer survivors

BACKGROUND

The Distress Thermometer (dt) is a screening tool recommended to quickly identify cancer patients with distress. Our study aimed to examine the sensitivity and specificity of the dt in detecting psychological distress in long-term Chinese nasopharyngeal cancer (npc) survivors.

METHODS

Data for the 442 participating npc survivors were collected through a self-administered questionnaire based on the dt and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (hads). The hads was used to define cases of psychological distress. Positive and negative groups were defined based on 4 hads criteria (Anxiety, Depression, Anxiety or Depression, and overall score). Receiver operating characteristic (roc) curves were used to examine the ability of all possible cut-off values of the dt to detect positive and negative cases. For each roc curve, the area under the curve (auc) was used as an indicator of the overall accuracy of the dt to identify positive cases of distress.

RESULTS

The positive auc values [with 95% confidence intervals (ci)] for the 4 hads criteria were 0.715 (95% ci: 0.667 to 0.764), 0.714 (95% ci: 0.661 to 0.768), 0.724 (95% ci: 0.677 to 0.771), and 0.724 (95% ci: 0.664 to 0.775) respectively. At a cut-off score of 4, the sensitivity of the dt to the four hads criteria was, respectively, 0.366 (95% ci: 0.296 to 0.436), 0.448 (95% ci: 0.364 to 0.532), 0.362 (95% ci: 0.299 to 0.425), and 0.421 (95% ci: 0.339 to 0.502), and the specificity of the dt to the 4 hads criteria was, respectively, 0.860 (95% ci: 0.818 to 0.902), 0.860 (95% ci: 0.821 to 0.899), 0.854 (95% ci: 0.814 to 0.894), and 0.854 (95% ci: 0.814 to 0.894). At a cut-off score of 5, the corresponding sensitivities were lower than those at the cut-off score of 4. All potential cut-off scores showed poor sensitivity (<0.90).

CONCLUSIONS

The roc analysis showed poor discrimination. No potential dt cut-off score had an acceptable sensitivity. The dt showed poor sensitivity in npc survivors. Thus, the dt might not be a valid scale for psychological distress screening in long-term Chinese npc survivors.

"Trophoblast islands of the chorionic connective tissue" (TICCT): a novel placental histologic feature

INTRODUCTION

We found isolated or clustered trophoblasts in the chorionic connective tissue of the extraplacental membranes, and defined this novel histologic feature as the "trophoblast islands of the chorionic connective tissue" (TICCT). This study was conducted to determine the clinical significance of TICCT.

METHODS

Immunohistochemistry for cytokeratin-7 was performed on the chorioamniotic membranes (N = 2155) obtained from singleton pregnancies of 1199 uncomplicated term and 956 preterm deliveries. The study groups comprised 1236 African-American and 919 Hispanic women. Gestational age ranged from 24(+0) weeks to 41(+6) weeks. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate the magnitude of association between patient characteristics and the presence of TICCT.

RESULTS

The likelihood of TICCT was significantly associated with advancing gestational age both in term (OR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.16-1.45, p < 0.001) and preterm deliveries (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.07-1.32, p = 0.001) . Hispanic women were less likely than African-American women to have TICCT across gestation in term (OR: 0.23, 95% CI: 0.18-0.31, p < 0.001) and preterm pregnancies (OR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.29-0.58, p < 0.001). Women with a female fetus were significantly more likely to have TICCT than women with a male fetus, in both term (OR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.28-2.11, p < 0.001) and preterm gestations (OR: 2.04, 95% CI: 1.46-2.85, p < 0.001). TICCT was 40% less frequent in the presence of chronic placental inflammation [term (OR: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.45-0.81, p = 0.001) and preterm gestations (OR: 0.58, 95% CI: 0.40-0.84, p = 0.003)] and in parous women at term (OR: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.44-0.81, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that the duration of pregnancy, fetal sex, and parity may influence the behavior of extravillous trophoblast and placental mesenchymal cells.

Suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid, a histone deacetylase inhibitor, protects dopaminergic neurons from neurotoxin-induced damage

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Prevention or disease-modifying therapies are critical for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease. However, no such intervention is currently available. Growing evidence has demonstrated that administration of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors ameliorates a wide range of neurologic and psychiatric disorders in experimental models. Suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA) was the first HDAC inhibitor approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the sole use of cancer therapy. The purpose of this study was to explore the potential new indications of SAHA for therapy of neurodegenerative diseases in in vitro Parkinson's disease models.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Mesencephalic neuron-glia cultures and reconstituted cultures were used to investigate neurotrophic and neuroprotective effects of SAHA. We measured toxicity in dopaminergic neurons, using dopamine uptake assay and morphological analysis and expression of neurotrophic substances by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and real-time RT PCR.

KEY RESULTS

In mesencephalic neuron-glia cultures, SAHA displayed dose- and time-dependent prolongation of the survival and protection against neurotoxin-induced neuronal death of dopaminergic neurons. Mechanistic studies revealed that the neuroprotective effects of SAHA were mediated in part by promoting release of neurotrophic factors from astroglia through inhibition of histone deacetylation.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

The novel neurotrophic and neuroprotective effects of SAHA demonstrated in this study suggest that further study of this HDAC inhibitor could provide a new therapeutic approach to the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

The complete genome sequence of a member of a new species of tobamovirus (rattail cactus necrosis-associated virus) isolated from Aporcactus flagelliformis

In this study, we identified a new tobamovirus from diseased Aporcactus flagelliformis cactus plants, named it rattail cactus necrosis-associated virus (RCNaV), and determined its complete genome sequence. The full RCNaV genome consisted of 6,506 nucleotides and contained four open reading frames coding for proteins of M(r) 128 kDa (3,441 nt), 185 kDa (4,929 nt), 55 kDa (1452 nt), 36 kDa (1,005 nt) and 19 kDa (513 nt) from the 5' to 3' end, respectively. The overall similarities for the four ORFs of RCNaV were from 32.5% to 64.1% and from 17.0% to 67.3% to those of the other tobamoviruses, at the nucleotide and amino acid level, respectively. Comparison of the coding and non-coding regions of the virus with those of other tobamoviruses showed that RCNaV is the most closely related to cactus mild mottle virus.

Prognostic factors for recurrence with unilateral recess-resect procedure in patients with intermittent exotropia

PURPOSE

To evaluate the prognostic factors, particularly age at the time of surgery, for recurrence after unilateral medial rectus resection and lateral rectus recession (R&R) procedures in patients with intermittent exotropia, or X(T).

METHODS

Medical records of 489 subjects who received unilateral R&R procedures with more than 12 months of follow-up were reviewed. The patients' surgical outcomes with a deviation of less than 10 prism diopters (PD) of exotropia and less than 5 PD of esotropia were defined as a success. Outcomes with more than 11 PD of exotropia were designated as recurrences, and those with esotropia of more than 5 PD after 3 months of operation were noted as overcorrection. The prognostic factors for recurrence were analyzed by the multivariate logistic regression test.

RESULTS

Of the 489 subjects, 209 had successful surgical outcomes and 280 had recurrences, whereas overcorrection was not found. Mean age at operation was 8.9 ± 6.5 years, mean preoperative distant X(T) size was 32.9 ± 6.0 PD, and mean follow-up period was 27.5 ± 17.9 months. On the basis of the survival analysis in which survival represented time of recurrence, the mean duration was 31.2 ± 1.7 months. Age at onset, age at surgery, and immediate postoperative alignment proved to be significant factors influencing a favorable outcome by multivariate logistic regression analysis (P<0.05). However, gender, family history, and preoperative deviation size were not significantly predictive of success (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

In unilateral R&R procedures, increasing patient age at the time of surgery was associated with lower recurrence rates. Recurrence rates also increased with the immediate postoperative angle and with the postoperative angle of deviation at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months.

Non-invasive prediction of intra-amniotic inflammation in women with preterm labor

OBJECTIVE

To develop a model based on non-invasive variables to predict the probability of intra-amniotic inflammation in women with preterm labor and intact membranes.

METHODS

Transvaginal ultrasonography and digital examination for the assessment of cervical length and cervical dilatation were performed, and maternal blood was collected for the determination of C-reactive protein and white blood cell (WBC) count immediately after amniocentesis in 153 consecutive women with preterm labor. Amniotic fluid obtained by amniocentesis was cultured for aerobic and anaerobic bacteria and mycoplasmas, and the WBC was determined. Intra-amniotic inflammation was defined as an elevated amniotic fluid interleukin-6 concentration (> 2.6 ng/mL). Receiver-operating characteristics (ROC) curves and logistic regression analysis were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The prevalence of a positive amniotic fluid culture was 7.2% (11/153) and the prevalence of intra-amniotic inflammation was 19.6% (30/153). The final logistic regression model was based on non-invasive clinical variables, including gestational age at assessment, cervical length and maternal blood WBC count, which were the best predictors of intra-amniotic inflammation. The model was shown to have an adequate goodness of fit (P = 0.754), and the area under the ROC curve was 0.724, indicating reasonably good discrimination.

CONCLUSION

In women with preterm labor and intact membranes, the risk for intra-amniotic inflammation can be predicted non-invasively with a risk score based on gestational age, cervical length and maternal blood WBC count.

Degree of cervical shortening after initial induction of labor as a predictor of subsequent successful induction

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether the degree of cervical length shortening is valuable in predicting the success of serial induction of labor on the second day in women in whom it failed on the first day, and to compare its performance with that of cervical length.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study. We enrolled 92 consecutive women with singleton gestations at > 34.0 weeks' gestation who failed labor induction on the first day of serial induction. Transvaginal sonographic measurement of cervical length and determination of the Bishop score were undertaken before performing each labor induction on the first and second days.

RESULTS

The overall success rate of labor induction performed on the second day was 65% (60/92). Multiple logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the degree of cervical length shortening and cervical length were significantly associated with the successful induction of labor after adjustment for body mass index, parity, use of prostaglandin and Bishop score. There were no significant differences between areas under the ROC curves for degree of cervical length shortening and cervical length.

CONCLUSIONS

The degree of cervical length shortening is valuable in predicting the success of induction of labor on the second day in women in whom induction failed on the first day. However, compared with sonographic cervical length it is no better at predicting the success of subsequent induction of labor.

Clinical and sonographic parameters at 37 weeks' gestation for predicting the risk of primary Cesarean delivery in nulliparous women

OBJECTIVES

To identify the clinical and sonographic parameters at 37 weeks' gestation that predict the risk of Cesarean delivery in labor for nulliparas.

METHODS

This prospective observational study recruited nulliparas with singleton pregnancies at 37 weeks' gestation. Determination of the Bishop score, ultrasound measurement of the cervical length, and fetal biometry were performed. The clinical parameters studied were maternal age, height and weight and Bishop score. The sonographic parameters included fetal biparietal diameter, femur length, abdominal circumference (AC), estimated fetal weight (EFW), amniotic fluid index and cervical length.

RESULTS

Four hundred and fifty-three women were examined; 57 women (12.6%) underwent an emergency Cesarean delivery in labor. Logistic regression analysis identified maternal age and height and fetal AC and EFW, but not cervical length or Bishop score, as the best predictors of Cesarean delivery. Of these predictors, maternal age and height and fetal AC at 37 weeks were included in a final model for risk scoring. The model was shown to have an adequate goodness of fit (P = 0.473), and the area under the receiver-operating characteristics curve was 0.758, indicating reasonably good discrimination.

CONCLUSIONS

Maternal age and height and fetal AC and EFW at 37 weeks' gestation are the most important parameters in predicting the risk of Cesarean delivery in nulliparas; sonographic measurement of the cervical length and the Bishop score were not predictive of Cesarean delivery. A predictive model using these parameters at 37 weeks provides useful information in the decision-making process regarding the mode of delivery.

The complete genome sequence and genome structure of frangipani mosaic virus

In this study, the complete sequence of the genomic RNA of frangipani mosaic virus (FrMV) has been determined and compared to those of other known tobamoviruses. The complete genome sequence of FrMV consisted of 6,643 nucleotides. The FrMV genomic RNA encoded four open reading frames (ORFs), for proteins of M(r) 128 kDa (1,147 aa), 186 kDa (1,651 aa), 30 kDa (257 aa) and 18 kDa (175 aa) from the 5' to the 3' end. Overall similarities for the four ORFs of FrMV-P ranged from 26.8 to 53.0% at the amino acid level when compared to those of 24 other tobamoviruses. Phylogenetic analysis of the FrMV replicase (186 kDa) and MP revealed that FrMV is closely related to SHMV and CMMoV, while the FrMV replicase (128 kDa) is more closely related to cucurbit-infecting and malvaceous-infecting tobamoviruses, and the FrMV CP is closely related to that of CMMoV and solanaceous-infecting tobamoviruses.

Treatment with dextromethorphan improves endothelial function, inflammation and oxidative stress in male heavy smokers

BACKGROUND

Dextromethorphan (DM) is reported to reduce the inflammation-mediated degeneration of dopaminergic neurons.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to test if DM can improve the endothelial dysfunction and inflammatory markers in heavy smokers.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Forty habitual smoking healthy male volunteers (mean age, 31.5 +/- 1.4 years) were randomly given either DM (120 mg day(-1)) or a placebo for 6 months. We determined endothelial function using the brachial artery diameter changes in flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) and measured their inflammatory and oxidative markers. A sex-and-age matched non-smoking group (n = 20) was compared as normal parameters.

RESULTS

Habitual smokers showed impaired baseline endothelial function in FMD (smoking vs. non-smoking: 6.3 +/- 1.8 vs. 10.2 +/- 2.3% respectively, P < 0.01). Without change in smoking behavior, lipid and metabolic parameters, a significant increase in FMD was found in the DM-treated group (32%), accompanied by a decrease in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), phospholipase A(2), matrix metalloproteinase-3, interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha receptor II (TNF-alpha RII) (all P < 0.05), but unchanged in von Willebrand factor (VWF)and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1). An increase in plasma glutathione peroxidase and a decrease in spot urinary excretion of 8-epi-prostaglandin F(2a) were found in DM-treated smokers.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that a 6-month treatment with DM can improve endothelial function and attenuate vascular oxidative stress and inflammation markers in habitual smokers.

Effect of a bone marrow microenvironment on the ex-vivo expansion of umbilical cord blood progenitor cells

Progenitor cells (CD34(+)) can be isolated from umbilical cord blood and used to correct or reconstitute various cell lines within the haematopoietic and endothelial cell lineage. The main disadvantage of this procedure relates to the low volume of blood that can be collected after the umbilical cord has been clamped, which limits the number of progenitor cells available for treatment. This limitation, however, can be overcome by expanding CD34(+) cells ex vivo. Our aim was to perform a controlled study to determine if the ex-vivo proliferation of umbilical cord CD34(+) cells is enhanced when they are placed in a system that mimics the bone marrow microenvironment. For this purpose, CD34(+) cells were isolated from umbilical cord blood using a magnetic cell sorting kit and seeded in platforms containing different cocktails of cytokines with and without a three-dimensional (3D) biomatrix. Results from this study suggest that the number of viable cells can double after 1 week in any of the culture platforms and that the 3D biomatrix does not enhance cell proliferation.

Complete genome sequence supports bell pepper mottle virus as a species of the genus Tobamovirus

Biological properties and the complete genome sequence of bell pepper mottle virus (BPeMV) were determined. The full genome of BPeMV consists of 6375 nucleotides. The BPeMV genomic RNA has four open reading frames (ORFs) encoding proteins of M(r) 126, 181, 30 and 18 kDa from the 5' to the 3' end, respectively. The lengths of the 5' nontranslated region (NTR) and the 3' NTR are 71 and 198 nucleotides, respectively. Overall identities for the four ORFs of BpeMV, at the nucleotide and amino acid levels, respectively, ranged from 36.0 to 80.6% and from 32.1 to 90.9%, compared to those of 22 other tobamoviruses. The CP gene of BPeMV displayed 43.5-73.5% and 32.1-82.4% identity to those of 22 other tobamoviruses at the nucleotide and amino acid levels, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses of four viral proteins clearly supported the conclusion that BPeMV-encoded proteins were related to those of members of the Solanaceae-infecting tobamoviruses. BPeMV was closely related to tomato mosaic virus, and tobacco mosaic virus and different from other tobamoviruses. Western blot analysis showed that BPeMV cross-reacted strongly with antibodies against members of Solanaceae-infecting tobamoviruses. These data represent the first molecular evidence supporting BPeMV as a separate species of the genus Tobamovirus.

Infection of soybean by cucumber mosaic virus as determined by viral movement protein

To characterize the host range determinant of the soybean strain of Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) we analyzed a series of pseudorecombinants and chimeric viruses between infectious transcripts from two soybean strains (CMV-SC and CMV-SD) and an ordinary strain (CMV-Y). CMV-Y could not infect soybeans, even locally. Systemic infection of the two soybean-adapted soybean isolates on soybean plants mapped to RNA3. Chimeric RNA3s from between CMV-SC and CMV-Y, and chimeric RNA3s from between CMV-SC and CMV-SD, were made and inoculated onto wild soybean Iwate and soybean cv. Tsurunoko. The 3a region determined the viral systemic movement in the plants. In the wild soybean ecotype Hyougo, cell-to-cell movement of two different CMV soybean strains, one of which infects systemically while the other does not, in the inoculated leaves were almost the same, suggesting that the resistance of soybean operates at the level of long-distance movement. Our results clearly suggest that movement protein is a host determinant of CMV soybean strains.

Global DNA methylation profiling reveals silencing of a secreted form of Epha7 in mouse and human germinal center B-cell lymphomas

Most human lymphomas originate from transformed germinal center (GC) B lymphocytes. While activating mutations and translocations of MYC, BCL2 and BCL6 promote specific GC lymphoma subtypes, other genetic and epigenetic modifications that contribute to malignant progression in the GC remain poorly defined. Recently, aberrant expression of the TCL1 proto-oncogene was identified in major GC lymphoma subtypes. TCL1 transgenic mice offer unique models of both aggressive GC and marginal zone B-cell lymphomas, further supporting a role for TCL1 in B-cell transformation. Here, restriction landmark genomic scanning was employed to discover tumor-associated epigenetic alterations in malignant GC and marginal zone B-cells in TCL1 transgenic mice. Multiple genes were identified that underwent DNA hypermethylation and decreased expression in TCL1 transgenic tumors. Further, we identified a secreted isoform of EPHA7, a member of the Eph family of receptor tyrosine kinases that are able to influence tumor invasiveness, metastasis and neovascularization. EPHA7 was hypermethylated and repressed in both mouse and human GC B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas, with the potential to influence tumor progression and spread. These data provide the first set of hypermethylated genes with the potential to complement TCL1-mediated GC B-cell transformation and spread.

Valproate protects dopaminergic neurons in midbrain neuron/glia cultures by stimulating the release of neurotrophic factors from astrocytes

Valproate (VPA), one of the mood stabilizers and antiepileptic drugs, was recently found to inhibit histone deacetylases (HDAC). Increasing reports demonstrate that VPA has neurotrophic effects in diverse cell types including midbrain dopaminergic (DA) neurons. However, the origin and nature of the mediator of the neurotrophic effects are unclear. We have previously demonstrated that VPA prolongs the survival of midbrain DA neurons in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated neuron-glia cultures through the inhibition of the release of pro-inflammatory factors from microglia. In this study, we report that VPA upregulates the expression of neurotrophic factors, including glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) from astrocytes and these effects may play a major role in mediating VPA-induced neurotrophic effects on DA neurons. Moreover, VPA pretreatment protects midbrain DA neurons from LPS or 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+)-induced neurotoxicity. Our study identifies astrocyte as a novel target for VPA to induce neurotrophic and neuroprotective actions in rat midbrain and shows a potential new role of cellular interactions between DA neurons and astrocytes. The neurotrophic and neuroprotective effects of VPA also suggest a utility of this drug for treating neurodegenerative disorders including Parkinson's disease. Moreover, the neurotrophic effects of VPA may contribute to the therapeutic action of this drug in treating bipolar mood disorder that involves a loss of neurons and glia in discrete brain areas.

A comparison of perinatal mortality in Korea on holidays and working days

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether the perinatal mortality of infants born during holidays differs from that of infants born on workdays, and to elucidate its cause.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study. Setting Vital statistics linked to the National Infant Mortality Survey data for 1999 births in Korea.

POPULATION

In all, 628 485 births in 1999 in Korea.

METHODS

Number of births and perinatal mortality were classified according to the day of the week using the occurrence index. After adjusting for confounding factors, the odds ratios (ORs) for increased holiday mortality were estimated using logistic regression.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Birthweight-adjusted perinatal mortality.

RESULTS

Births on holidays were 33% fewer and perinatal deaths 24% higher than expected (PMR, Perinatal Mortality Rate, 16.4 versus 12.8; OR, 1.3; 95% CI, 1.2-1.4). After the adjustment of birthweight, gender, plurality and congenital anomalies, the odds ratio for death of infants born during holidays was 1.2 (95% CI, 1.1-1.3).

CONCLUSIONS

The higher perinatal mortality during holidays in Korea appears to be due to different qualities of perinatal care, rather than difference in case-mix.

Molecular evidence supporting the confirmation of maracuja mosaic virus as a species of the genus Tobamovirus and production of an infectious cDNA transcript

The complete genome sequence of maracuja mosaic virus (MarMV) was determined and analyzed. The full MarMV genome consisted of 6794 nucleotides, and this is the largest genome size among known tobamoviruses. The MarMV genome RNA contained four open reading frames (ORFs) coding for proteins of M(r) 126, 181, 34 and 18 kDa from the 5' to 3' end, respectively. The lengths of the 5' nontranslated region (NTR) and the 3' NTR were 54 and 177 nucleotides, respectively. Phylogenetic tree analysis revealed that these MarMV-encoded proteins are related to members of the Malvaceae- and Cucurbitaceae-infecting tobamoviruses. MarMV is different from other tobamoviruses and forms a new Passifloraceae-infecting subgroup. Western blot analysis showed that MarMV cross-reacted strongly with antibodies against Kyuri green mottle mosaic virus and Hibiscus latent Singapore virus. Synthesized capped transcripts from full-length cDNA of MarMV were infectious. These data clearly indicate that MarMV belongs to a separate species of the genus Tobamovirus.

The complete genome sequence of pepper severe mosaic virus and comparison with other potyviruses

The complete nucleotide sequence of pepper severe mosaic virus (PepSMV) was determined. The viral genome consisted of 9890 nucleotides, excluding a poly (A) tract at the 3' end of the genome. The PepSMV RNA genome encoded a single polyprotein of 3085 amino acid residues, resulting in ten functionally distinct potyviral proteins. The lengths of the 5' nontranslated region (NTR) and the 3' NTR were 164 and 468 nucleotides, respectively. The genome organization of the virus was typical for members of the genus Potyvirus in the family Potyviridae. The coat protein amino acid sequence identity between PepSMV and the other 45 potyviruses ranged from 53.4 to 79.7%. Sequence alignments and phylogenetic analyses of the potyviral polyprotein sequences revealed that PepSMV was the closest to potato virus Y (PVY) and closely related to members of the PVY subgroup. Our genome sequence data clearly confirmed that PepSMV belongs to a separate species in the genus Potyvirus.

Potent regulation of microglia-derived oxidative stress and dopaminergic neuron survival: substance P vs. dynorphin

Unregulated microglial activation has been implicated as a pivotal factor contributing to Parkinson's disease. Using mesencephalic neuron-glia cultures, we address the novel possibility that peptides endogenous to the substantia nigra (SN), substance P and dynorphin (10(-13)-10(-14) M), are opposing mediators of microglial activation and consequent DA neurotoxicity. Here, we identify that substance P (10(-13)-10(-14) M) is selectively toxic to DA neurons in a microglia-dependent manner. Mechanistically, substance P (10(-13)-10(-14) M) activated microglial NADPH oxidase to produce extracellular superoxide and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Neuron-glia cultures from mice lacking a functional NADPH oxidase complex (PHOX-/-) were insensitive to substance P (10(-13)-10(-14) M) -induced loss of DA neuron function. Mixed glia cultures from (PHOX-/-) mice failed to show a significant increase in intracellular ROS in response to substance P compared with control cultures (PHOX+/+). Further, dynorphin (10(-14) M) inhibited substance P (10(-13) M) -induced loss of [3H] DA uptake. Here we demonstrate a tightly regulated mechanism governing microglia-derived oxidative stress, where the neuropeptide balance of dynorphin and substance P is critical to DA neuron survival.

Role of microglia in inflammation-mediated degeneration of dopaminergic neurons: neuroprotective effect of interleukin 10

Inflammation in the brain has been recognized to play an increasingly important role in the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. Inflammation-mediated neurodegeneration involves activation of the brain's resident immune cells, the microglia, which produce proinflammatory and neurotoxic factors including cytokines, reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide, and eicosanoids that directly or indirectly cause neurodegeneration. In this study, we report that IL-10, an immunosuppressive cytokine, reduced the inflammation-mediated degeneration of dopaminergic (DA) neurons through the inhibition of microglial activation. Pretreatment of rat mesencephalic neuronglia cultures with IL-10 significantly attenuated the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced DA neuronal degeneration. The neuroprotective effect of IL-10 was attributed to inhibition of LPS-stimulated microglial activation. IL-10 significantly inhibited the microglial production of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), nitric oxide, ROS and superoxide free radicals after LPS stimulation.

Activators of viral gene expression in polarized epithelial monolayers identified by rapid-throughput drug screening

Epithelial polarity and tight junction formation limit the ability of adenovirus, retrovirus and adeno-associated virus (AAV) to deliver and express virally encoded genes. Using an extended half-life luciferase assay and high-throughput luminometry, we screened 23 000 compounds and natural product extracts as potentiators to overcome this barrier. Seven strong activators were discovered (up to several hundred fold above control) and two of these exhibited spectrum of activity in multiple cell types (HeLa (human cervical carcinoma), cystic fibrosis bronchial epithelial (human bronchial), HT29 (human colonic carcinoma), Calu3 (airway serous glandular)). Enhanced transduction by unrelated gene transfer vectors (adenovirus, lentivirus, AAV, liposomal) was also observed. These results establish a strategy for identifying compounds that improve viral gene transfer to resistant cell types, and provide new tools for examining epithelial defense against viral infection. The compounds should have broad usefulness in experimental therapies for cancer and genetic diseases.

Inhibition of microglial activation by the herbal flavonoid baicalein attenuates inflammation-mediated degeneration of dopaminergic neurons

Accumulating evidence has suggested that inflammation in the brain participates in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). Therefore, anti-inflammatory therapy has attracted much attention as novel interference to neurodegenerative diseases. Baicalein, a major flavonoid extracted from a traditional Chinese herb Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (Huangqin), possesses potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. To test the potential neuroprotective effect of baicalein on dopaminergic neurons, primary midbrain neuron-glia cultures from E-14 rat embryos were used. Cultures were pretreated with baicalein for 30 min prior to stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 10 ng/ml). LPS leads to massive activation of microglial cells revealed by OX-42 immunostaining, and produced excessive quantities of NO. Excessive elevation of superoxide level was also observed in enriched-microglia after stimulating with LPS. LPS-induced damage to dopaminergic neurons was evaluated by uptake capacity for [3H]dopamine and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-immunocytochemistry. Pretreatment with baicalein concentration-dependently attenuated LPS-induced decrease in [3H]dopamine uptake and loss of TH-immunoreactive (TH-ir) neurons, which the maximum protective effect was observed at the concentration of 5 microM. Post-treatment with baicalein (5 microM) was also shown to be effective even if baicalein administered up to 2 h later than LPS application. Morphological study shows that baicalein (5 microM) almost completely blocked LPS-induced activation of microglia. Excessive production of TNF(alpha) and free radicals such as NO and superoxide by LPS stimulation were also attenuated by baicalein at a concentration-dependent pattern. The present study indicates that baicalein exerts potent neuroprotective effect on LPS-induced injury of dopaminergic neurons. We hypothesize that the inhibition of LPS-induced production of NO and free radicals from microglia may underlie the mechanism of baicalein's neuroprotection.

Nanometer size diesel exhaust particles are selectively toxic to dopaminergic neurons: the role of microglia, phagocytosis, and NADPH oxidase

The contributing role of environmental factors to the development of Parkinson's disease has become increasingly evident. We report that mesencephalic neuron-glia cultures treated with diesel exhaust particles (DEP; 0.22 microM) (5-50 microg/ml) resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in dopaminergic (DA) neurons, as determined by DA-uptake assay and tyrosine-hydroxylase immunocytochemistry (ICC). The selective toxicity of DEP for DA neurons was demonstrated by the lack of DEP effect on both GABA uptake and Neu-N immunoreactive cell number. The critical role of microglia was demonstrated by the failure of neuron-enriched cultures to exhibit DEP-induced DA neurotoxicity, where DEP-induced DA neuron death was reinstated with the addition of microglia to neuron-enriched cultures. OX-42 ICC staining of DEP treated neuron-glia cultures revealed changes in microglia morphology indicative of activation. Intracellular reactive oxygen species and superoxide were produced from enriched-microglia cultures in response to DEP. Neuron-glia cultures from NADPH oxidase deficient (PHOX-/-) mice were insensitive to DEP neurotoxicity when compared with control mice (PHOX+/+). Cytochalasin D inhibited DEP-induced superoxide production in enriched-microglia cultures, implying that DEP must be phagocytized by microglia to produce superoxide. Together, these in vitro data indicate that DEP selectively damages DA neurons through the phagocytic activation of microglial NADPH oxidase and consequent oxidative insult.