A Genome-Wide Association Study of Protein, Oil, and Amino Acid Content in Wild Soybean (Glycine soja)

Soybean (Glycine max L.) is a globally important source of plant proteins, oils, and amino acids for both humans and livestock. Wild soybean (Glycine soja Sieb. and Zucc.), the ancestor of cultivated soybean, could be a useful genetic source for increasing these components in soybean crops. In this study, 96,432 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across 203 wild soybean accessions from the 180K Axiom^® Soya SNP array were investigated using an association analysis. Protein and oil content exhibited a highly significant negative correlation, while the 17 amino acids exhibited a highly significant positive correlation with each other. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) was conducted on the protein, oil, and amino acid content using the 203 wild soybean accessions. A total of 44 significant SNPs were associated with protein, oil, and amino acid content. Glyma.11g015500 and Glyma.20g050300, which contained SNPs detected from the GWAS, were selected as novel candidate genes for the protein and oil content, respectively. In addition, Glyma.01g053200 and Glyma.03g239700 were selected as novel candidate genes for nine of the amino acids (Ala, Asp, Glu, Gly, Leu, Lys, Pro, Ser, and Thr). The identification of the SNP markers related to protein, oil, and amino acid content reported in the present study is expected to help improve the quality of selective breeding programs for soybeans.

Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) Analysis of Seed Protein and Oil Content in Wild Soybean (Glycine soja)

Soybean seeds consist of approximately 40% protein and 20% oil, making them one of the world's most important cultivated legumes. However, the levels of these compounds are negatively correlated with each other and regulated by quantitative trait loci (QTL) that are controlled by several genes. In this study, a total of 190 F₂ and 90 BC₁F₂ plants derived from a cross of Daepung (Glycine max) with GWS-1887 (G. soja, a source of high protein), were used for the QTL analysis of protein and oil content. In the F_2:3 populations, the average protein and oil content was 45.52% and 11.59%, respectively. A QTL associated with protein levels was detected at Gm20_29512680 on chr. 20 with a likelihood of odds (LOD) of 9.57 and an R² of 17.2%. A QTL associated with oil levels was also detected at Gm15_3621773 on chr. 15 (LOD: 5.80; R²: 12.2%). In the BC₁F_2:3 populations, the average protein and oil content was 44.25% and 12.14%, respectively. A QTL associated with both protein and oil content was detected at Gm20_27578013 on chr. 20 (LOD: 3.77 and 3.06; R² 15.8% and 10.7%, respectively). The crossover to the protein content of BC₁F_3:4 population was identified by SNP marker Gm20_32603292. Based on these results, two genes, Glyma.20g088000 (S-adenosyl-l-methionine-dependent methyltransferases) and Glyma.20g088400 (oxidoreductase, 2-oxoglutarate-Fe(II) oxygenase family protein), in which the amino acid sequence had changed and a stop codon was generated due to an InDel in the exon region, were identified.

The discovery of novel SNPs associated with group A soyasaponin biosynthesis from Korea soybean core collection

Soyasaponin is a type of glycoside such as steroids, steroidal alkaloids or triterpenes, which enhance the body immunity. In order to efficiently identify genes and markers related to the soyasaponin, we used a 180K Axiom® SoyaSNP array and whole genome resequencing data from the Korean soybean core collection. As a result of conducting GWAS for group A soyasaponin (Aa and Ab derivatives), 16 significant common markers associated with Aa and Ab derivatives were mapped to chromosome 7, and three candidate genes including Glyma.07g254600 were detected. The functional haplotypes for candidate genes showed that Aa and Ab contents were mainly determined by alleles of AX-90322128, the marker of Glyma.07g254600. In addition, 14 novel SNPs variants closely associated with Aa and Ab derivatives were discovered for Glyma.07g254600. Therefore, the results of this study that identified soyasaponin-associated markers and useful genes utilizing various genomic information could provide insight into functional soybean breeding.

Flavobacterium endoglycinae sp. nov., an endophytic bacterium isolated from soybean (Glycine max L. cv. Gwangan) stems

A Gram-stain-negative, facultatively anaerobic, motile by gliding, rod-shaped, oxidase- and catalase-positive bacterial strain, designated BB8T, was isolated from the stems of a Korean soybean cultivar (Glycine max L. cv. Gwangan). The strain produced a yellow pigment on tryptic soy agar. Growth of strain BB8T occurred at pH 5.0-8.0 (optimum, pH 7.0), at 10-35 °C (optimum, 25-30 °C) and in the presence of 0-1 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 0.5%). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain BB8T formed a lineage within the genus Flavobacterium and was most closely related to Flavobacterium artemisiae SYP-B1015T (96.9 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity) and Flavobacterium ustbae T13T (96.8%). The complete genome sequence of strain BB8T was 5 513 159 bp long with a G+C content of 34.1 mol%. The major fatty acids (>10 %) of strain BB8T were iso-C15 : 0 (21 %), summed feature 3 (comprising C16 : 1 ω7c and/or C16 : 1 ω6c, 20.3%) and iso-C16 : 0 3-OH (13.7%). The predominant polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine and unidentified aminolipids, and the major respiratory quinone was menaquinone-6. Based on these phenotypic, genotypic and chemotaxonomic characteristics, strain BB8T is considered to represent a novel species of the genus Flavobacterium, for which the name Flavobacterium endoglycinae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is BB8T (=KCTC 82167T=CCTCC AB 2020070T).

Arachis hypogaea resveratrol synthase 3 alters the expression pattern of UDP-glycosyltransferase genes in developing rice seeds

The resveratrol-producing rice (Oryza sativa L.) inbred lines, Iksan 515 (I.515) and Iksan 526 (I.526), developed by the expression of the groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) resveratrol synthase 3 (AhRS3) gene in the japonica rice cultivar Dongjin, accumulated both resveratrol and its glucoside, piceid, in seeds. Here, we investigated the effect of the AhRS3 transgene on the expression of endogenous piceid biosynthesis genes (UGTs) in the developing seeds of the resveratrol-producing rice inbred lines. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) analysis revealed that I.526 accumulates significantly higher resveratrol and piceid in seeds than those in I.515 seeds and, in I.526 seeds, the biosynthesis of resveratrol and piceid reached peak levels at 41 days after heading (DAH) and 20 DAH, respectively. Furthermore, RNA-seq analysis showed that the expression patterns of UGT genes differed significantly between the 20 DAH seeds of I.526 and those of Dongjin. Quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) analyses confirmed the data from RNA-seq analysis in seeds of Dongjin, I.515 and I.526, respectively, at 9 DAH, and in seeds of Dongjin and I.526, respectively, at 20 DAH. A total of 245 UGTs, classified into 31 UGT families, showed differential expression between Dongjin and I.526 seeds at 20 DAH. Of these, 43 UGTs showed more than 2-fold higher expression in I.526 seeds than in Dongjin seeds. In addition, the expression of resveratrol biosynthesis genes (PAL, C4H and 4CL) was also differentially expressed between Dongjin and I.526 developing seeds. Collectively, these data suggest that AhRS3 altered the expression pattern of UGT genes, and PAL, C4H and 4CL in developing rice seeds.

Stabilizing decontamination foam using surface-modified silica nanoparticles containing chemical reagent: foam stability, structures, and dispersion properties

The stabilization of decontamination foams containing a chemical reagent is a crucial requirement for their use in the decontamination of nuclear power plants. We have investigated the effects on decontamination foam stability of adding silica nanoparticles (NPs) modified with various functional groups, namely propyl (–CH₃), amine (–NH₂), and thiol (–SH) groups. The surface properties of these silica NPs were characterized with ATR-FTIR, solid NMR, and TGA analyses. We also established that the agglomeration in such foams of the amine-modified silica NPs is weaker than that of the other modified silica NPs due to their thorough dispersion in the liquid film. Further, the foam containing amine-modified silica NPs was found to be stable for 60 min at a pH of 2, i.e. under decontamination conditions. The bubble structure analysis showed that this decontamination foam has a bubble count that is approximately 5–8 times higher than the foams containing NPs modified with the other functional groups, which indicates that the decontamination foam with amine-modified silica NPs has the best foam structure of the three investigated foams. The well-dispersed and smaller amine-modified silica NPs enhance the foam stability by providing a barrier between the gas bubbles and delaying their coalescence. In contrast, the thiol- and propyl-modified silica NPs form aggregates with large diameters that reduce the maximum capillary pressure of coalescence and hence decrease the foam stability.

The stabilization of decontamination foams containing a chemical reagent is a crucial requirement for their use in the decontamination of nuclear power plants.

High Throughput Phenotyping for Various Traits on Soybean Seeds Using Image Analysis

Data phenotyping traits on soybean seeds such as shape and color has been obscure because it is difficult to define them clearly. Further, it takes too much time and effort to have sufficient number of samplings especially length and width. These difficulties prevented seed morphology to be incorporated into efficient breeding program. Here, we propose methods for an image acquisition, a data processing, and analysis for the morphology and color of soybean seeds by high-throughput method using images analysis. As results, quantitative values for colors and various types of morphological traits could be screened to create a standard for subsequent evaluation of the genotype. Phenotyping method in the current study could define the morphology and color of soybean seeds in highly accurate and reliable manner. Further, this method enables the measurement and analysis of large amounts of plant seed phenotype data in a short time, which was not possible before. Fast and precise phenotype data obtained here may facilitate Genome Wide Association Study for the gene function analysis as well as for development of the elite varieties having desirable seed traits.

Note: Near infrared interferometric silicon wafer metrology

In this investigation, two near infrared (NIR) interferometric techniques for silicon wafer metrology are described and verified with experimental results. Based on the transparent characteristic of NIR light to a silicon wafer, the fiber based spectrally resolved interferometry can measure the optical thickness of the wafer and stitching low coherence scanning interferometry can reconstruct entire surfaces of the wafer.

Metabolic Syndrome Is not an Independent Risk Factor for Hearing Impairment

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the association between metabolic syndrome (MS) and hearing impairment (HI) using nationally representative data from Korean adults.

DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

A total of 16,799 subjects (≥19 years old; 7,170 men and 9,629 women) who underwent pure tone audiometry testing were included in the analysis. Data were obtained from the fifth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2010-2012). Subjects were divided into two groups according to the presence of MS.

RESULTS

Among the subjects with MS, 47% had HI. Logistic regression analysis revealed that MS was not an independent risk factor for HI, although increased fasting plasma glucose (OR 1·4, 95% CI: 1·1-1·8) was independently associated with HI. In addition, older age, male sex, very low body mass index (≤17·5 kg/m2), lower education level, smoking history, and occupational noise exposure were independently associated with HI. For low-frequency HI, independent risk factors included older age, lower educational level, lower economic status, and very low BMI (≤17·5 kg/m2). For high-frequency HI, independent risk factors included older age, male sex, lower educational level, lower economic status, increased blood pressure, lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and smoking history.

CONCLUSIONS

MS itself was not an independent risk factor for HI, and, among the individual metabolic components, only increased fasting plasma glucose was independently associated with HI.

The present and future disease burden of hepatitis C virus infections with today's treatment paradigm - volume 3

The total number, morbidity and mortality attributed to viraemic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections change over time making it difficult to compare reported estimates from different years. Models were developed for 15 countries to quantify and characterize the viraemic population and forecast the changes in the infected population and the corresponding disease burden from 2014 to 2030. With the exception of Iceland, Iran, Latvia and Pakistan, the total number of viraemic HCV infections is expected to decline from 2014 to 2030, but the associated morbidity and mortality are expected to increase in all countries except for Japan and South Korea. In the latter two countries, mortality due to an ageing population will drive down prevalence, morbidity and mortality. On the other hand, both countries have already experienced a rapid increase in HCV-related mortality and morbidity. HCV-related morbidity and mortality are projected to increase between 2014 and 2030 in all other countries as result of an ageing HCV-infected population. Thus, although the total number of HCV countries is expected to decline in most countries studied, the associated disease burden is expected to increase. The current treatment paradigm is inadequate if large reductions in HCV-related morbidity and mortality are to be achieved.

Strategies to manage hepatitis C virus infection disease burden - volume 3

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemic was forecasted through 2030 for 15 countries in Europe, the Middle East and Asia, and the relative impact of two scenarios was considered: increased treatment efficacy while holding the annual number of treated patients constant and increased treatment efficacy and an increased annual number of treated patients. Increasing levels of diagnosis and treatment, in combination with improved treatment efficacy, were critical for achieving substantial reductions in disease burden. A 90% reduction in total HCV infections within 15 years is feasible in most countries studied, but it required a coordinated effort to introduce harm reduction programmes to reduce new infections, screening to identify those already infected and treatment with high cure rate therapies. This suggests that increased capacity for screening and treatment will be critical in many countries. Birth cohort screening is a helpful tool for maximizing resources. Among European countries, the majority of patients were born between 1940 and 1985. A wider range of birth cohorts was seen in the Middle East and Asia (between 1925 and 1995).

Historical epidemiology of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in select countries - volume 3

Detailed, country-specific epidemiological data are needed to characterize the burden of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection around the world. With new treatment options available, policy makers and public health officials must reconsider national strategies for infection control. In this study of 15 countries, published and unpublished data on HCV prevalence, viraemia, genotype, age and gender distribution, liver transplants and diagnosis and treatment rates were gathered from the literature and validated by expert consensus in each country. Viraemic prevalence in this study ranged from 0.2% in Iran and Lebanon to 4.2% in Pakistan. The largest viraemic populations were in Pakistan (7 001 000 cases) and Indonesia (3 187 000 cases). Injection drug use (IDU) and a historically unsafe blood supply were major risk factors in most countries. Diagnosis, treatment and liver transplant rates varied widely between countries. However, comparison across countries was difficult as the number of cases changes over time. Access to reliable data on measures such as these is critical for the development of future strategies to manage the disease burden.

A Promising Na3V2(PO4)3/Ag + Graphene Composites as Cathode Material for Hybrid Lithium Batteries

The NASICON (sodium super ionic conductor) based Na3V2(PO4)3/Ag + graphene (NVP/Ag + G) was successfully synthesized through a sol-gel route using a silver nitrate and graphene as a raw material. The effects of the physical and electrochemical properties of the NVP/Ag + G composites have been evaluated with X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, and electrochemical measurements. The graphene and Ag significantly influenced the morphology, structure and electrochemical performance of the Na3V2(PO4)3 material. In the electrochemical measurement, the (NVP/Ag + G) electrode showed the discharge capacity of 102 mAh g(-1) at 0.1 C rate, which was higher than the pristine Na3V2(PO4). At a current rate of 5 C, it still exhibits the discharge capacity of 73 mAh g(-1) and the capacity retention of 71.6%. The results of higher electrochemical performance of the NVP/Ag + G composites are mainly attributed to the synergetic effect of the graphene and the silver particles.

Influence of hepatitis B virus reactivation on the recurrence of HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma after curative resection in patients with low viral load

It is unclear whether the reactivation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) influences the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after resection in patients with chronic hepatitis B. The aim of this study was to identify the influence of HBV reactivation on the recurrence of hepatitis B-related HCC after curative resection in patients with low viral load (HBV DNA <2000 IU/mL). We retrospectively analysed a total of 130 patients who underwent curative resection for HBV-related early stage HCC (single nodule; <5 cm/two or three nodules; <3 cm) with pre-operative HBV DNA levels <2000 IU/mL with serial HBV DNA tests. The predictive factors including HBV reactivation for the recurrence of HBV-related HCC after curative resection were investigated. Fifty-three patients (41%) had HBV reactivation after resection among 130 patients. HBV reactivation was observed in 22 of 53 patients with undetectable baseline HBV DNA and in 31 of 77 patients with detectable baseline HBV DNA. Cumulative recurrence rates after resection at 1, 2 and 3 years were 17.0%, 23.3% and 31.4%, respectively. The multivariable analysis demonstrated that the risk factors for the recurrence were the presence of microvascular invasion (hazard ratio (HR) 2.62, P = 0.003), multinodularity (HR 4.61, P = 0.005), HBV reactivation after resection (HR 2.03, P = 0.032) and HBeAg positivity (HR 2.06, P = 0.044). HBV reactivation after curative resection is associated with the recurrence of HBV-related HCC in patients with low viral load.

Physical and electrochemical characterization of 0.3Li2MnO3 x 0.7LiMn0.60Ni0.25Co0.15O2 material for Li secondary battery

The 0.3Li2MnO3 x 0.7LiMn0.60Ni0.25Co0.15O2 cathode materials were synthesized using a coprecipitation method at a various heat-treatment temperature. From XRD pattern analysis, pure layered structure without impurities was confirmed from all samples and the peak intensity of Li2MnO3 was increased as the heat-treatment temperature increased. The primary particle size increased approximately from 100 nm to 500 nm with increasing heat-treatment temperature. The initial discharge capacity of the materials obtained at 950 degrees C was 235 mA h/g at 0.1 C rate, but then decreased down to 228 mA h/g with further increasing heat-treatment temperature. And, in the voltage range of 2.0-4.6 V, the electrode heat-treated at 900 degrees C showed the highest capacity retention of 68% at 5 C rate against to 0.1 C rate.

Proton pump inhibitor use significantly increases the risk of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in 1965 patients with cirrhosis and ascites: a propensity score matched cohort study

BACKGROUND

The risk of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) associated with proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use has been raised in cirrhotic patients with ascites. However, this is based on case-control studies, often with a small series.

AIM

To determine whether PPI use increases the risk of SBP using a large cohort.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 1965 cirrhotic patients with ascites diagnosed between January 2005 and December 2009. The SBP incidence rate was compared between the PPI and non-PPI groups before and after propensity score matching to reduce the effect of selection bias and potential confounders. Multivariate analysis was conducted to confirm the association of PPI use with SBP.

RESULTS

After excluding 411 patients, 1554 were analysed. Among them, 512 patients (32.9%) were included in the PPI group. The annual SBP incidence rate was higher in the PPI group than in the non-PPI group (10.6% and 5.8%, P = 0.002) before matching. Indications for PPI use and dose of PPI were similar between patients with and without SBP. In the propensity score matched cohort (402 pairs), the SBP incidence rate was also higher in the PPI group than in the non-PPI group (10.8% vs. 6.0%, P = 0.038). Multivariate analysis revealed that PPI use (Hazard ratio 1.396; 95% confidence interval, 1.057-1.843; P = 0.019) was the independent risk factor for SBP.

CONCLUSIONS

Proton pump inhibitor use significantly increases the risk of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotic patients with ascites. Proton pump inhibitor use should be undertaken with greater caution and appropriately in patients with cirrhosis.

Protein Profile in Corpus Luteum during Pregnancy in Korean Native Cows

Steroidogenesis requires coordination of the anabolic and catabolic pathways of lipid metabolism, but the profile of proteins associated with progesterone synthesis in cyclic and pregnant corpus luteum (CL) is not well-known in cattle. In Experiment 1, plasma progesterone level was monitored in cyclic cows (n = 5) and pregnant cows (n = 6; until d-90). A significant decline in the plasma progesterone level occurred at d-19 of cyclic cows. Progesterone level in abbatoir-derived luteal tissues was also determined at d 1 to 5, 6 to 13 and 14 to 20 of cyclic cows, and d-60 and -90 of pregnant cows (n = 5 each). Progesterone level in d-60 CL was not different from those in d 6 to 13 CL and d-90 CL, although the difference between d 6 to 13 and d-90 was significant. In Experiment 2, protein expression pattern in CL at d-90 (n = 4) was compared with that in CL of cyclic cows at d 6 to 13 (n = 5). Significant changes in the level of protein expression were detected in 32 protein spots by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2-DE), and 23 of them were identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). Six proteins were found only in pregnant CL, while the other 17 proteins were found only in cyclic CL. Among the above 6 proteins, vimentin which is involved in the regulation of post-implantation development was included. Thus, the protein expression pattern in CL was disorientated from cyclic luteal phase to mid pregnancy, and alterations in specific CL protein expression may contribute to the maintenance of pregnancy in Korean native cows.

Reference intervals for whole blood viscosity using the analytical performance-evaluated scanning capillary tube viscometer

OBJECTIVES

This study was performed to establish the reference intervals for whole blood viscosity (WBV) using the analytical performance-evaluated scanning capillary tube viscometer (SCTV).

DESIGN AND METHODS

The analytical performance of the SCTV was evaluated using three different levels of QC materials and sixty human EDTA-blood samples. To establish the reference intervals for WBV, 297 healthy individuals (123 men and 174 women) were selected from 1083 subjects.

RESULTS

Within-day precisions with QC materials and human whole blood and between-day precisions with QC materials were below 5.0%, 6.6% and 8.0% in CVs at all shear rates, respectively. Comparison tests between the SCTV and the Brookfield viscometer showed a significant correlation (R(2)=0.972, p<0.001). The reference intervals for WBV in healthy men were 3.66-5.41cP at 300s(-1) and 23.15-36.45cP at 1s(-1) while those in women were 3.27-4.32cP at 300s(-1) and 18.20-27.36cP at 1s(-1), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Using the analytical performance-evaluated SCTV, the reference intervals for WBV were established in healthy adults, which could be beneficial to the clinical utility of WBV in the aspect of appropriate modalities for the improvement of blood viscosity.

Effectiveness of locoregional therapy before living donor liver transplantation in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma who meet the Milan criteria

BACKGROUND

Many patients are diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) within the Milan criteria. In Korea, these patients are preferentially treated with locoregional therapy (LRT) instead of living donor liver transplantation. We investigated the effectiveness of LRT in liver transplant recipients who met the Milan criteria at the time of HCC diagnosis and investigated risk factors for HCC recurrence.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients diagnosed with HCC who met the Milan criteria between 2002 and 2008.

RESULTS

We performed 101 liver transplants for HCC during the study period. Seventy-one patients (70%) underwent pretransplant LRT. The disease-free survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years in patients who received LRT were 96.6%, 93.1%, and 93.1%, and in those who did not receive LRT, 94.2%, 83.4%, and 83.4%, respectively. There were no differences between the 2 groups. Multivariate analysis showed that a low Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score and microvascular invasion were independent predictors of HCC recurrence after transplantation. The MELD scores and rate of microvascular invasion were not statistically different in patients with or without previous LRT.

CONCLUSION

Pretransplant LRT for patients with HCC who met the Milan criteria at the time of diagnosis did not provide a clear benefit with respect to HCC recurrence after transplantation. If patients have suitable living donors, those who meet the Milan criteria should undergo a liver transplantation as soon as possible.

Suppression of NS3 and MP is important for the stable inheritance of RNAi-mediated rice stripe virus (RSV) resistance obtained by targeting the fully complementary RSV-CP gene

Rice stripe virus (RSV) is a viral disease that seriously impacts rice production in East Asia, most notably in Korea, China, and Japan. Highly RSV-resistant transgenic japonica rice plants were generated using a dsRNAi construct designed to silence the entire sequence region of the RSV-CP gene. Transgenic rice plants were inoculated with a population of viruliferous insects, small brown planthoppers (SBPH), and their resistance was evaluated using ELISA and an infection rate assay. A correlation between the expression of the RSV-CP homologous small RNAs and the RSV resistance of the transgenic rice lines was discovered. These plants were also analyzed by comparing the expression pattern of invading viral genes, small RNA production and the stable transmission of the RSV resistance trait to the T3 generation. Furthermore, the agronomic trait was stably transmitted to the T4 generation of transgenic plants.

microRNAs in the regulation of adipogenesis and obesity

Worldwide obesity is a growing health problem, associated with increased risk of chronic disease. Understanding the molecular basis of adipogenesis and fat cell development in obesity is essential to identify new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the development of anti-obesity drugs. microRNAs (miRNAs) appear to play regulatory roles in many biological processes associated with obesity, including adipocyte differentiation, insulin action and fat metabolism. Recent studies show miRNAs are dysregulated in obese adipose tissue. During adipogenesis miRNAs can accelerate or inhibit adipocyte differentiation and hence regulate fat cell development. In addition miRNAs may regulate adipogenic lineage commitment in multipotent stem cells and hence govern fat cell numbers. Recent findings suggest miR-519d may be associated with human obesity, but larger case-control studies are needed. Few miRNA targets have been experimentally validated in adipocytes but interestingly both miR-27 and miR-519d target PPAR family members, which are well established regulators of fat cell development. In this review recent advances in our understanding of the role of miRNAs in fat cell development and obesity are discussed. The potential of miRNA based therapeutics targeting obesity is highlighted as well as recommendations for future research which could lead to a breakthrough in the treatment of obesity.

Beneficial effects of Undaria pinnatifida ethanol extract on diet-induced-insulin resistance in C57BL/6J mice

This study was performed to evaluate the beneficial effect of Undaria pinnatifida ethanol extract (UEFx) on insulin resistance in diet-induced obese mice. A high-fat diet was supplemented with the UEFx at 0.69% (wt/wt) dose, which contains an equivalent amount of 0.02% fucoxanthin (wt/wt), or with Fx at 0.02% (wt/wt) dose in diet. After 9 weeks, both UEFx supplement significantly lowered the amount of visceral fat, the size of adipocyte, the fasting blood glucose concentration, the plasma insulin and the insulin resistance index similar to pure as shown by Fx supplement, compared to the high-fat (HF) control group. Blood glucose level was negatively correlated with hepatic glucokinase activity (r = -0.533, p < 0.05), whereas positively correlated with hepatic gluconeogenic enzyme activities (r = 0.463, p < 0.05 for glucose-6-phosphatase; r = 0.457, p < 0.05 for phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase). Ratio of hepatic glucokinase/glucose-6-phosphatase and glycogen content were significantly elevated by the UEFx and Fx supplements. Supplementation of the UEFx as well as Fx seemed to stimulate the β-oxidation activity and inhibit the phosphatidate phosphohydrolase activity resulting in a decrease in the hepatic lipid droplet accumulation. The results indicate that the UEFx can prevent insulin resistance and hepatic fat accumulation that is partly mediated by modulating the hepatic glucose and lipid homeostasis in the high fat-induced obese mice.

Expression of BrD1, a plant defensin from Brassica rapa, confers resistance against brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens) in transgenic rices

Plant defensins are small (5-10 kDa) basic peptides thought to be an important component of the defense pathway against fungal and/or bacterial pathogens. To understand the role of plant defensins in protecting plants against the brown planthopper, a type of insect herbivore, we isolated the Brassica rapa Defensin 1 (BrD1) gene and introduced it into rice (Oryza sativa L.) to produce stable transgenic plants. The BrD1 protein is homologous to other plant defensins and contains both an N-terminal endoplasmic reticulum signal sequence and a defensin domain, which are highly conserved in all plant defensins. Based on a phylogenetic analysis of the defensin domain of various plant defensins, we established that BrD1 belongs to a distinct subgroup of plant defensins. Relative to the wild type, transgenic rices expressing BrD1 exhibit strong resistance to brown planthopper nymphs and female adults. These results suggest that BrD1 exhibits insecticidal activity, and might be useful for developing cereal crop plants resistant to sap-sucking insects, such as the brown planthopper.

The incidence and clinical outcome of YMDD mutants in hepatitis B surface antigen-positive renal allograft recipients after prolonged lamivudine therapy

Although lamivudine (LAM) is a potent inhibitor of hepatitis B virus (HBV), prolonged therapy may induce the development of LAM-resistant strains, YMDD mutants. Although YMDD mutants have impaired replication that leads to a benign clinical course compared with wild-type virus, some immunosuppressive agents may enhance replication of YMDD mutants, causing a severe hepatitis flare. We retrospectively investigated the incidence and clinical outcomes of YMDD mutants in renal allograft recipients on immunosuppressive treatment. Clinical records of 25 renal allograft recipients, who underwent renal transplantation between December 1997 and February 2006 were hepatitis B surface antigen positive at the time of transplantation, were reviewed. All patients received LAM treatment after renal transplantation. Over 9 to 98 months of follow-up, 16 patients (64.0%) maintained undetectable HBV DNA levels; however, 9 patients (36.0%) showed persistent or increased levels of HBV DNA. Seven were identified as having developed YMDD mutants. Although genotypic analysis was not performed, YMDD mutants were strongly suspected in another two patients, who developed severe hepatic dysfunction combined with high levels of HBV viremia at close to 2 years of LAM therapy. One patient recovered after hepatic transplantation and another patient died of hepatic failure. In conclusion, the incidence of YMDD mutants was similar to that of nonimmunosuppressed individuals; however, the presence of these mutants made it more likely for severe liver disease to develop in renal transplant recipients. Therefore, close monitoring for the development of YMDD mutants should be performed during LAM treatment, especially in this group of patients.

Genistein and daidzein prevent diabetes onset by elevating insulin level and altering hepatic gluconeogenic and lipogenic enzyme activities in non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice

BACKGROUND

Non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice are regarded as being excellent animal models of human type 1 diabetes or insulin dependent diabetes (IDDM). This study investigated the beneficial effects of genistein and daidzein on IDDM, an autoimmune disease.

METHODS

Female NOD mice were divided into control, genistein (0.02%, w/w) and daidzein (0.02%, w/w) groups. Blood glucose level, plasma biomarkers, hepatic glucose and lipid regulating enzyme activities and pancreas immunohistochemistry analysis were examined after a 9-week experimental period.

RESULTS

Blood glucose levels of genistein and daidzein groups were 40 and 36% of control value at the end of study (9th week). The genistein and daidzein supplements increased insulin/glucagon ratio and C-peptide level with preservation of insulin staining beta-cell of pancreas in the NOD mice. In the liver, genistein and daidzein supplements resulted in lowering glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) activities, while increasing two lipogenic enzymes activities, malic enzyme and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), compared to the control group. Significantly, genistein and daidzein supplementation lowered the activities of fatty acid beta-oxidation and carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT) in these mice. Genistein and daidzein also improved plasma triglyceride and free fatty acid (FFA) concentrations compared to the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that genistein and daidzein play important roles in regulation of glucose homeostasis in type 1 diabetic mice by down-regulating G6Pase, PEPCK, fatty acid beta-oxidation and CPT activities, while up-regulating malic enzyme and G6PD activities in liver with preservation of pancreatic beta-cells. The supplementation of genistein and daidzein are seemingly helpful for preventing IDDM onset.

The anti-diabetic effects of ethanol extract from two variants of Artemisia princeps Pampanini in C57BL/KsJ-db/db mice

The anti-diabetic effects of two variants of Artemisia princeps Pampanini, sajabalssuk (SB) and sajuarissuk (SS), were investigated in type 2 diabetic animal using their ethanol extracts. Male C57BL/KsJ-db/db (db/db) mice were divided into control, SB ethanol extract (SBE), SS ethanol extract (SSE), or rosiglitazone (RG) groups and their age-matched littermates (db/+) were used. Supplementation of the SBE (0.171 g/100g diet), SSE (0.154 g/100g diet), and RG (0.005 g/100g diet) improved glucose and insulin tolerance and significantly lowered blood glycosylated hemoglobin levels, as compared to the control group. Plasma insulin, C-peptide and glucagon levels in db/db mice were higher in the db/+ mice, however these values were significantly lowered by SBE, SSE or RG-supplement. Hepatic GK activity was significantly lower in the db/db mice than in the db/+ mice, while hepatic G6Pase activity was vice versa. Supplementation of SBE, SSE and RG reversed these hepatic glucose-regulating enzyme activities. In addition, SBE and SSE markedly increased the hepatic glycogen content and muscle ratio as compared to the control group, but they did not alter the food intake, body weight and plasma leptin level. The RG group, however, showed a significant increase in the food intake, body weight and plasma leptin. These results suggest that SBE and SSE exert an anti-diabetic effect in type 2 diabetic mice.

Clinical significance of pre-S mutations in patients with genotype C hepatitis B virus infection

We investigated the overall and site-specific prevalence of pre-S mutations and its clinical significance in patients with genotype C hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Three hundred subjects were included: 50 asymptomatic carriers (AC), 87 chronic hepatitis (CH), 91 liver cirrhosis (LC) and 72 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Pre-S mutations were determined by nucleotide sequence analysis. Possible correlations between pre-S mutations and clinical/virological parameters were examined. Pre-S mutations were detected in 82 cases (27.3%); it was more frequently found in HCC (43.1%) and LC (35.2%) group than in the CH (20.7%) and AC (2.0%) group. Pre-S2 deletion was the most commonly found mutation (10.7%), followed by pre-S2 start codon mutation (9.7%), pre-S1-S2 deletion (3.0%) and both pre-S2 deletion and start codon mutation (2.7%). Pre-S2 deletion and pre-S2 start codon mutation were more frequently detected in advanced diseases (LC and HCC). Pre-S mutations were associated with older age and higher rates of positive HBV DNA (>/=0.5 pg/mL). Advanced disease and positive HBV DNA were shown to be independent predictors of pre-S mutations by logistic regression analysis. These findings suggest that pre-S mutations, especially pre-S2 deletions and pre-S2 start codon mutations, are common in patients with genotype C HBV infection and are associated with advanced liver disease and active viral replication.

Polyoma virus-associated nephropathy and concurrent cytomegalovirus infection in the kidney transplant recipients

INTRODUCTION

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) and polyoma virus BK (BKV) may both establish latency following primary infection. Frequent reactivation of these viruses can occur in the kidney transplant recipients. BKV may induce CMV gene expression by stimulating cellular regulator proteins or by its own gene regulator proteins. A high rate of concurrent CMV infections has been noted in kidney transplant recipients with polyoma virus-associated nephropathy (PVAN).

METHODS

PVAN was identified in 10 of 191 patients who received kidney transplants between October 1998 and September 2003. PVAN was confirmed by allograft kidney biopsy. Four of the 10 patients were complicated by concurrent CMV infection.

RESULTS

Two patients had only serological evidence of CMV infection and one patient had CMV gastritis. These three patients were treated with intravenous ganciclovir with good results. Disseminated ganciclovir-resistant CMV disease was demonstrated in the remaining patient. This 34-year-old kidney transplant recipient with PVAN died of multiorgan failure despite antiviral therapy with both ganciclovir and foscarnet.

CONCLUSION

PVAN with concurrent CMV infection in kidney transplant recipients showed variable clinical courses including mortality. Further studies are needed to elucidate the influence of PVAN on the pathogenesis of CMV infection.

Polyphenol (-)-epigallocatechin gallate protection from ischemia/reperfusion-induced renal injury in normotensive and hypertensive rats

INTRODUCTION

The effect of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in an in vivo renal model of ischemia with reperfusion (I/R) was compared between normotensive (WKR) and hypertensive (SHR) rats.

METHODS

WKR (groups I, II, III) and SHR groups (groups IV, V, VI) were divided into three types. Groups I and IV were sham-operated animals; groups II and V were subjected to 45 minutes of renal I/R; and groups III and VI received 10 mg/kg EGCG intravenously at the time of reperfusion. Three days after renal I/R, we compared renal function markers, malondialdehyde (MDA), and histologic changes.

RESULTS

Following renal I/R, levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (sCr) were increased and serum creatinine clearance (CrCl) decreased in group V compared to group II (P < .001). Those receiving EGCG treatment (groups III and VI) had decreased BUN and sCr compared to non-EGCG I/R groups (P < .001), but not surprisingly, higher than sham groups. CrCl was lowest in the SHR groups. The MDA was significantly decreased after EGCG treatment (P = .028 in group III, P = .002 in group VI). Following renal I/R, tissue necrosis was more severe among SHR (P < .001). However, the ratio of regeneration to damage significantly increased in SHR after EGCG treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The reperfusion injury was greater among SHR compared with WKR in terms of renal function, lipid peroxidation, and tissue damage. EGCG treatment significantly ameliorated renal impairment and promoted tissue regeneration following renal I/R.

Triple-A syndrome--the first Chinese patient with novel mutations in the AAAS gene

We report on the first Chinese patient with triple-A syndrome, who presented at 22 months with status epilepticus secondary to hyponatraemia and hypoglycaemia. Subsequent endocrine investigations confirmed primary adrenal insufficiency and aldosterone deficiency. In the presence of achalasia and alacrima, this patient satisfies the diagnostic criteria of triple-A syndrome. Further molecular testing detected compound heterozygous mutations in the AAAS gene: a c.580C --> T transition in exon 7 and a c.771delG single nucleotide deletion in exon 8. Testing of parents and brother confirmed their heterozygous carrier status.

A modified two-incision minimally invasive total hip arthroplasty: technique and short-term results

Between 2003 and 2005, a total of 425 consecutive cases with a modified two-incision minimally invasive total hip arthroplasty (THA) were performed at our hospital. We analysed 225 cas-es with greater than 12 months follow-up clinically and radiographically. The mean operative time was 70 minutes. Patients could walk on crutches at 1.5 days and discontinued crutch use at an average of 3 weeks. Patients were able to walk upstairs without support at 4 weeks. Radiographic analysis showed the mean lateral opening angle and anteversion of the acetabular components were 43.0 and 17.3, and 97% of the femoral stems were in neutral alignment. There was no radiographic evidence of component migration or subsidence at the most recent follow-up. Therefore, from these early results, a modified two-incision THA was found to be an excellent surgical modality, which allows early rehabilitation and does not increase complications when compared to other MIS two-incision THA techniques.

Can we expand the Milan criteria for hepatocellular carcinoma in living donor liver transplantation?

INTRODUCTION

The Milan criteria, namely, tumors 5 cm or less in diameter in patients with single hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), no more than 3 tumor nodules, and each 3 cm or less in diameter in patients with multiple tumors, are accepted for cadaveric liver allocation. However, in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT), graft donation may only depend on the donor's intention. The aim of this study was to elucidate the feasibility of Milan criteria in LDLT.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From January 2001 to December 2002, 46 cases of liver transplantation (LT) for HCC included 5 hospital mortalities and 3 cadaveric transplantations, all of which were excluded. We classified the patients into Group I cases that met the Milan criteria and Group II cases that did not meet the Milan criteria. The analyses examined tumor-related risk factors affecting recurrence and survival, such as tumor size, number of tumor nodules, and presence of microvascular and macrovascular invasion.

RESULTS

Twenty-one cases belonged to Group I and 17 to Group II. There was no significant difference in the recurrence or survival rates between Groups I and II. The risk factors affecting recurrence were macrovascular invasion and tumor size (5 cm). The number of tumor nodules and microvascular invasion did not appear to affect recurrence. The risk factor affecting survival was macrovascular invasion.

CONCLUSION

We suggest that in selected cases the Milan criteria could be extended to increase the number of tumor nodules as long as the HCC were small and did not macrovascular invasion.

Clinicopathological features of incidental hepatocellular carcinoma in liver transplantation

The incidence of detecting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a removed recipient liver after a liver transplant is not rare. The clinical features are expected to be different from the preoperatively diagnosed HCC. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinicopathological features of incidental HCC. This study retrospectively analyzed five cases of incidental HCC among 51 liver transplant cases of HCC operated from September 1996 to February 2002. The proportion of an incidental HCC was 9.8%. The mean age was 46.2 years with a higher prevalence in may (80%, four cases). The alpha-fetoprotein level was normal or mildly elevated. HBsAg was positive in all cases. Imaging studies revealed regenerative or dysplastic nodules, or no specific lesion. The pathological findings demonstrated a mean size of 1.16 cm, multiplicity in three cases (60%), no microvascular invasion, and Edmonson grade I (60%) and II (40%). There was no recurrence of the HCC. However, two patients died due to an intracranial hemorrhage and a graft failure, respectively. In conclusion, incidentally found HCC showed less invasive pathological features and a better prognosis.

Outcomes in patients with hepatopulmonary syndrome undergoing liver transplantation

Hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) is a condition of significant hypoxia due to intrapulmonary shunting (IPS) in patients with advanced liver disease. Reversibility of HPS after liver transplantation (LT) has been suggested, but the results of LT for HPS remain poorly defined. We studied 78 patients with decompensated liver disease who underwent LT after a preoperative evaluation including contrast echocardiography. We compared the baseline characteristics and outcomes after LT in patients with HPS (n = 13) with those of patients without HPS (n = 65, controls). Before LT, prolongation of prothrombin time was more severe and an advanced Child-Pugh class were more frequent among HPS, patients compared with controls (INR 2.5 +/- 0.8 vs 1.9 +/- 0.7, P = .01; Child-Pugh class A:B:C = 0%:31%:69% vs 14%:65%:21%, P < .01). After LT, no significant differences were observed between the two groups in: clinical outcomes, duration of endotracheal intubation (4.5 +/- 7.7 vs 4.4 +/- 15.0 days), duration of intensive care unit stay (12.0 +/- 8.7 vs 14.4 +/- 19.4 days), duration of total hospital stay (40.0 +/- 33.5 vs 39.8 +/- 23.0), rate of pulmonary complications (7.7% vs 9.2%), or 3-month survival rates (92.3% vs 86.1%). These findings suggest that the presence of HPS does not significantly affect LT outcomes in patients with decompensated liver disease.

Rapid in vitro adventitious shoot propagation of Scopolia parviflora through rhizome cultures for enhanced production of tropane alkaloids

A rapid micropropagation system for Scopolia parviflora Nakai (Solanaceae), a rare medicinal plant native to Korea, was established using rhizome cultures. Shoots that originated from adventitious shoots of the rhizome were multiplied when the rhizomes were cultured on half-strength B5 liquid medium supplemented with various growth regulators. Optimum shoot multiplication was observed in half-strength B5 medium containing 3% (w/v) sucrose and 5.77 microM gibberellic acid (GA(3)). Each rhizome gave rise to an average of 12 shoots. Shoot elongation and root induction from multiple shoots occurred on growth regulator-free half-strength B5 solid medium. Healthy plantlets were transferred to a peat moss:vermiculite mixture for acclimatization, which was successful. The concentrations of tropane alkaloids, hyoscyamine and scopolamine were determined in different tissues of native growing plants, in vitro-propagated plants and acclimatized plants by high-performance liquid chromatography. The analysis revealed that the levels of hyoscyamine and scopolamine were higher in in vitro-propagated plants than in the native growing plants. When the rhizome was cut into segments and transferred to optimal culture conditions for multiple shoot propagation, only 12 weeks were required to produce a mature plant. We conclude that in vitro propagation techniques through rhizome cultures provide an efficient and rapid method for shoot propagation of S. parviflora.

Naringin supplementation lowers plasma lipids and enhances erythrocyte antioxidant enzyme activities in hypercholesterolemic subjects

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Preliminary studies have shown that naringin has a potent lipid-lowering effect and antioxidant capacity in high-cholesterol diet fed animals. Accordingly, the present study was conducted to investigate the effect of naringin on hypercholesterolemic subjects.

METHODS

A hypercholesterolemic group (n=30) and healthy control group (n=30) were established based on the plasma cholesterol levels in the subjects, then all subjects received naringin (400mg/capsule/day) with regular meals for a period of 8 weeks.

RESULTS

In the hypercholesterolemic subjects, naringin supplementation was found to lower the plasma total cholesterol by 14% and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations by 17%, while the plasma triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations remained unaffected. The apolipoprotein B levels in the hypercholesterolemic subjects were significantly lowered after naringin treatment, yet no change was observed in the apolipoprotein A-1 levels. The erythrocyte superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in the hypercholesterolemic group were significantly increased, whereas the glutathione peroxidase activity and plasma TBARS levels were not different from the baseline measurements. Meanwhile, naringin supplementation had no affect on plasma lipids, apolipoproteins, and TBARS levels or antioxidant enzyme activities in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Therefore, these data suggest that naringin may play an important role in lowering plasma cholesterol and regulating the antioxidant capacity in hypercholesterolemic subjects.

Supplementation of Areca catechu L. extract alters triglyceride absorption and cholesterol metabolism in rats

Areca extracts have already been found to exhibit a strong inhibitory activity on cholesterol absorption in high-cholesterol-fed rats. Accordingly, this study was performed to determine whether Areca extracts also exert an inhibitory activity on triglyceride absorption in triglyceride-fed rats. Male rats were fed a diet containing corn oil (10%, w/w) with or without an Areca nut extract supplement (0.5%, w/w). The supplementation of the Areca extract significantly lowered the absorption of triglyceride and the plasma lipid concentration. The absorbed triglyceride that appeared in the blood after an oral dose of [9,10(n)-(3)H] triglyceride was significantly lower in the rats supplemented with the Areca nut extract, compared with the control group. The supplementation also significantly lowered the small intestinal pCEase (pancreatic cholesterol esterase) activity by 22.5% compared to the control group. The hepatic and intestinal ACAT (acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase) activities were significantly decreased in the Areca group compared with the control group. Hence, further studies are needed to elucidate the structure and chemical properties of the active compound in the water-soluble Areca extract that lowers cholesterol absorption.

Effects of rutin and harmaline on rat reflux oesophagitis

1. This study was aimed at evaluating the effect of rutin and harmaline (1-methyl-7-methoxy-3,4-dihydro-beta-carboline) on the development of the surgically induced reflux oesophagitis, on gastric secretion, lipid peroxidation, polymorphonucleocytes (PMNs) accumulation, superoxide and hydroxyl radical production in PMNs, cytokine [interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)] production in blood and [Ca2+]i mobilization in PMNs. 2. Rutin and harmaline significantly prevented the development of reflux oesophagitis and gastric secretion. Treatments of oesophagitis rats with rutin and harmaline inhibited lipid peroxidation, and myeloperoxidase (MPO) in the oesophagus in comparison with untreated rats. 3. Superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide production in 1 microm formylmethionylleucylphenylalanine (fMLP)- or 0.1 microg ml-1N-phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-activated PMNs was inhibited by rutin and harmaline in a dose-dependent fashion. Rutin and harmaline effectively scavenged the hydroxyl radical and hydrogen peroxide. Treatments of oesophagitis rats with rutin and harmaline inhibited IL-1beta production in the oesophagus in comparison with untreated rats, but TNF-alpha production was not affected by rutin and harmaline. The fMLP-induced elevation of [Ca2+]i was inhibited by rutin. 4. The results of this study suggest that rutin and harmaline may have beneficial protective effects against reflux oesophagitis by the inhibition of gastric acid secretion, oxidative stress, inflammatory cytokine production (i.e. IL-1beta), and intracellular calcium mobilization in PMNs in rats.

Lipid-lowering and antioxidative activities of 3,4-di(OH)-cinnamate and 3,4-di(OH)-hydrocinnamate in cholesterol-fed rats

BACKGROUND

Polyphenols appear to have antioxidant activities and may mediate lipid lowering.

METHODS

Four groups of rats, a high-cholesterol control (HC), HC+lovastatin, HC+3,4-di(OH)-cinnamate, and HC+3,4-di(OH)-hydrocinnamate, were given a semi-synthetic diet. The cinnamate derivative or lovastatin (0.1 g/100 g) supplements were given for 6 weeks.

RESULTS

The plasma total cholesterol concentration was significantly lowered by the 3,4-di(OH)-cinnamate supplement compared to the control or lovastatin group. The 3,4-di(OH)-cinnamate and 3,4-di(OH)-hydrocinnamate supplements significantly lowered both the hepatic cholesterol and triglyceride levels, while lovastatin only lowered the hepatic cholesterol. The hepatic HMG-CoA reductase activities were significantly lower in the 3,4-di(OH)-cinnamate and 3,4-di(OH)-hydrocinnamate groups than in the control or lovastatin group. The ACAT activity was only significantly lower in the lovastatin group compared to the other groups. With regards the hepatic antioxidant enzyme system, the CAT activity was significantly higher in the 3,4-di(OH)-cinnamate and 3,4-di(OH)-hydrocinnamate groups compared to the control or lovastatin group. The two cinnamate derivatives resulted in an increased hepatic GSH-Px activity. Meanwhile, all the supplements significantly lowered the hepatic thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) content. However, the 3,4-di(OH)-cinnamate and 3,4-di(OH)-hydrocinnamate supplements did not alter the neutral sterol and total fecal sterol.

CONCLUSIONS

Both cinnamate derivatives were potent in lipid-lowering and altering the antioxidative enzyme. Furthermore, these results also suggest that 3,4-di(OH)-cinnamate is more effective than 3,4-di(OH)-hydrocinnamate in its lipid-lowering action.

Effect of naringin supplementation on cholesterol metabolism and antioxidant status in rats fed high cholesterol with different levels of vitamin E

Some bioflavonoids are potent antioxidants and have pharmacological effects similar to those of vitamin E. The interactive effect of naringin and vitamin E was studied with respect to cholesterol metabolism and antioxidant status. Naringin supplementation (0.1%, wt/wt) with comparable levels of vitamin E was given to rats with a high-cholesterol (1%, wt/wt) diet for 5 weeks. The amount of vitamin E included in naringin-free and naringin diets was a low (low-E) and a normal (normal-E) level. The naringin supplementation significantly lowered the concentrations of plasma cholesterol and triglyceride compared to the naringin-free group in low vitamin E-fed rats. HMG-CoA reductase activity was significantly lowered by naringin supplementation within both the low-vitamin E group (794.64 +/- 9.87 vs. 432.18 +/- 12.33 pmol/min/mg protein, mean +/- SE; p < 0.05) and normal-vitamin E group (358.82 +/- 11.4 vs. 218.22 +/- 9.47 pmol/min/mg protein, mean +/- SE; p < 0.05) compared to each of the naringin-free group. The HMG-CoA reductase activity was also significantly lowered by increased dietary vitamin E when compared within the naringin and naringin-free group, respectively. Neither dietary naringin nor vitamin E did significantly change the activities of hepatic antioxidant enzymes and plasma thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance level. These data indicate that naringin lowers the plasma lipid concentrations when the dietary vitamin E level is low. The HMG-CoA reductase-inhibitory effect of naringin was more potent when dietary vitamin E was at a normal level. These data may contribute to understanding the interactive effect of naringin and vitamin E on cholesterol biosynthesis in high-cholesterol-fed rats.

Antioxidative activity of naringin and lovastatin in high cholesterol-fed rabbits

The consumption of a cholesterol-enriched diet increases the degree of lipid peroxidation, which is one of the early processes of atherosclerosis. The aim of this trial was to determine the antioxidative effects of the citrus bioflavonoid, naringin, a potent cholesterol-lowering agent, compared to the cholesterol-lowering drug, lovastatin, in rabbits fed a high cholesterol diet. Male rabbits were served a high-cholesterol (0.5%, w/w) diet or high-cholesterol diet supplemented with either naringin (0.5% cholesterol, 0.05% naringin, w/w) or lovastatin (0.5% cholesterol, 0.03% lovastatin, w/w) for 8 weeks to determine the plasma and hepatic lipid peroxide, plasma vitamin A and E levels, and hepatic hydrogen peroxide levels, along with the hepatic antioxidant enzyme activities and gene expressions. Only the lovastatin group showed significantly lower plasma and hepatic lipid peroxide levels compared to the control group. The naringin supplementation significantly increased the activities of both hepatic SOD and catalase by 33% and 20%, respectively, whereas the lovastatin supplementation only increased the catalase activity by 23% compared to control group. There was no difference in the GSH-Px activities between the various groups. Content of H2O2 in hepatic mitochondria was significantly lower in groups supplemented with lovastatin and naringin than in control group. However, there was no difference in cytosolic H2O2 content in liver between groups. The concentration of plasma vitamin E was significantly increased by the naringin supplementation. When comparing the antioxidant enzyme gene expression, the mRNA expression of SOD, catalase and GSH-Px was significantly up-regulated in the naringin-supplemented group. Accordingly, these results would appear to indicate that naringin, a citrus bioflavonoid, plays an important role in regulating antioxidative capacities by increasing the SOD and catalase activities, up-regulating the gene expressions of SOD, catalase, and GSH-Px, and protecting the plasma vitamin E. In contrast, lovastatin exhibited an inhibitory effect on the plasma and hepatic lipid peroxidation and increased the hepatic catalase activity in high-cholesterol fed rabbits.

Regeneration of hyaline cartilage by cell-mediated gene therapy using transforming growth factor beta 1-producing fibroblasts

Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) has been considered as a candidate for gene therapy of orthopedic diseases. The possible application of cell-mediated TGF-beta gene therapy as a new treatment regimen for degenerative arthritis was investigated. In this study, fibroblasts expressing active TGF-beta 1 were injected into the knee joints of rabbits with artificially made cartilage defects to evaluate the feasibility of this therapy for orthopedic diseases. Two to 3 weeks after the injection there was evidence of cartilage regeneration, and at 4 to 6 weeks the cartilage defect was completely filled with newly grown hyaline cartilage. Histological analyses of the regenerated cartilage suggested that it was well integrated with the adjacent normal cartilage at the sides of the defect and that the newly formed tissue was indeed hyaline cartilage. Our findings suggest that cell-mediated TGF-beta 1 gene therapy may be a novel treatment for orthopedic diseases in which hyaline cartilage damage has occurred.

Shot noise for resonant Cooper pair tunneling

We study intrinsic noise of current in a superconducting single-electron transistor, taking into account both coherence effects and Coulomb interaction near a Cooper pair resonance. Because of this interplay, the statistics of tunneling events deviates from the Poisson distribution and, more important, it shows even-odd asymmetry in the transmitted charge. The zero-frequency noise is suppressed significantly when the quasiparticle tunneling rates are comparable to the coherent oscillation frequency of Cooper pairs.

Effects of gamma-irradiated fats on plasma lipid concentrations and hepatic cholesterol metabolism in rats

Currently, there is a growing need for food irradiation that is effective in food preservation and quality improvement. Accordingly, this study was designed to observe the effects of gamma-irradiated dietary fat on plasma lipid concentrations and hepatic cholesterol metabolism in rats. Male rats were fed 5-kGy-gamma-irradiated beef tallow (gammaBT), corn oil (gammaCO), perilla oil (gammaPO), and nonirradiated fats (BT, CO, and PO) for 6 weeks. The gamma-irradiated fat feeding did not affect the plasma lipid concentrations. However, the hepatic cholesterol content was significantly higher in the rats fed gamma-CO as compared with the rats fed nonirradiated CO (40.0 vs. 28.2 mg/g liver). The hepatic HMG-CoA (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A) reductase activities were not significantly different between the controls and the gamma-irradiated fat fed groups. However, the hepatic ACAT (acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase) activity was significantly lower in the gammaPO group as compared with its control group (138.2 vs. 404.5 pmol min(-1) mg(-1)). Among the nonirradiated groups, the ACAT activities of the CO and PO groups were higher than that of the BT group. The amounts of coprostanone, cholesterol, and total fecal neutral sterol were significantly higher in the gammaPO group as compared with the other groups. These results indicate that although slight changes in the lipid metabolism were observed as a result of 5-kGy-gamma-irradiated fat feeding, they were relative to the fat type and had no harmful consequences.