The Defined TLR3 Agonist, Nexavant, Exhibits Anti-Cancer Efficacy and Potentiates Anti-PD-1 Antibody Therapy by Enhancing Immune Cell Infiltration

Nexavant was reported as an alternative to the TLR3 agonist of Poly(I:C) and its derivatives. The physicochemical properties, signaling pathways, anti-cancer effects, and mechanisms of Nexavant were investigated. The distinctive characteristics of Nexavant compared to that of Poly(I:C) were demonstrated by precise quantification, enhanced thermostability, and increased resistance to RNase A. Unlike Poly(I:C), which activates TLR3, RIG-I, and MDA5, Nexavant stimulates signaling through TLR3 and RIG-I but not through MDA5. Compared to Poly(I:C), an intratumoral Nexavant treatment led to a unique immune response, immune cell infiltration, and suppression of tumor growth in various animal cancer models. Nexavant therapy outperformed anti-PD-1 antibody treatment in all the tested models and showed a synergistic effect in combinational therapy, especially in well-defined cold tumor models. The effect was similar to that of nivolumab in a humanized mouse model. Intranasal instillation of Nexavant led to the recruitment of immune cells (NK, CD4+ T, and CD8+ T) to the lungs, suppressing lung metastasis and improving animal survival. Our study highlighted Nexavant's defined nature for clinical use and unique signaling pathways and its potential as a standalone anti-cancer agent or in combination with anti-PD-1 antibodies.

Prediction of response to cardiac resynchronization therapy using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy

Background

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is a well-established therapy for symptomatic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, but the response is different for individuals. Although many modalities have been conducted to predict CRT response, cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) to predict CRT response has still insufficient usefulness.

Purpose

We determine whether the parameters including late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) identified in CMR could act as predictors of CRT response.

Methods

We retrospectively investigated 124 patients with non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy who underwent CMR before CRT implantation between Jan 2010 and July 2021 in a single center. CRT response was defined as a decrease in left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV) >15% on echocardiography after at least 3 months after CRT implantation.

Results

Among the study population (mean age 65.7±11.2 years, mean EF 25±6.5%, 50% of female), 85 (69%) patients were defined as CRT responder. The CRT responders had more left bundle branch block (LBBB) compared with non-responders [79 (92.9%) vs. 23 (59.0%), p<0.001], but there was a no difference of QRS duration (158.7 vs 165.0ms, p=0.054) between two groups. CMR analysis showed that there were no significant differences in the left ventricular (LV) chamber volume and LV ejection fraction between CRT-responder and non-responder. However, the right ventricular (RV) chamber volume was smaller (RV end-diastolic volume index, 86.3 vs 103.5 ml/m2, p=0.039; RV end-systolic volume index, 49.3 vs 68.5 ml/m2, p=0.013) and the RV ejection fraction (RVEF) was higher (46.9 vs 37.6%, p=0.002) in CRT-responders compared with non-responders. The LGE on CMR was more shown in non-responders than in CRT-responders [33 (84.6%) vs 45 (52.9%), p<0.001]. In CMR parameters, RV dysfunction (RVEF <45%) [Odds ratio (OR), 0.21 (0.05–0.93), p=0.045] and LGE [OR, 0.21 (0.05–0.58), p=0.01] were significantly associated with poor CRT response.

Conclusions

The presence of LGE and RV dysfunction on CMR were associated with poor CRT response in patients with non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy. Further investigation with CMR for pre-CRT patients is needed to support these results.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Genetic analysis of Korean non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy using next generation sequencing

Background

Non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NIDCM) is a genetic disorder that causes heart failure and life-threatening arrhythmia. However, there has been no study about the up-to-date genetic analysis for NIDCM in Korean. Therefore, we performed the genetic analysis of Korean NIDCM patients (pts) using next generation sequencing (NGS).

Methods

We analyzed clinical and echocardiographic data of 203 NIDCM in a single center from July 2017 to May 2020. All pts underwent NGS analysis with customized panel including 369 genes. Genetic variants were classified as pathogenic, likely pathogenic mutations or variants of uncertain significance regarding American College of Medical Genetics guideline.

Results

A total of 203 NIDCM pts (57±15 years old, 32.0% male, LVEF 28%) had NGS analysis. Thirty-seven (18.2%) pts had pathogenic or likely pathogenic mutations. The most prevalent mutated genes were TTN (n=16, 43.2%). TNNT2 (n=6, 16.2%), MYBPC3 (n=6, 16.2%) and MYH7 (n=3, 8.1%) mutated genes were common in the following order. The patients with positive panel mutation had no significant difference in initial LVEF (27% vs. 28%, p=0.216) and prevalence of atrial fibrillation (37.8% vs. 44.6%, p=0.454) compared with patients with negative panel mutation. During the median follow-up period of 40 months, there was no significant difference in composite outcome (all-cause death, heart transplantation, LVAD, heart failure re-admission, fatal arrhythmia) (35.3% vs. 32.2%, p=0.729) or presence of improved EF (≥10 points increase from baseline LVEF, and a second measurement of LVEF >40%) (41.2% vs. 50.0%, p=0.354) between the two groups.

Conclusion

This is the first study of NGS analysis in Korean NIDCM pts. We could find disease-related pathogenic or likely pathogenic mutations in 18.2% NIDCM patients. Further prospective, large study should be warranted to elucidate the effect of genetic mutation in clinical manifestation and prognosis of NIDCM in Korean population.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

In-hospital glycemic variability and all-cause mortality in patients hospitalized with acute heart failure: analysis of the KorAHF registry

Introduction

Glycemic variability (GV) is known to be a poor prognostic marker in various diseases including cardiovascular disease.

Purpose

We investigated the association of GV with all-cause mortality in patients with acute heart failure (HF).

Methods

The Korean Acute Heart Failure registry enrolled patients hospitalized for acute HF from 2011 to 2014. Among survivors of the index hospitalization, we analyzed those who had ≥3 blood glucose measurements before discharge. Patients were divided into two groups based on their coefficient of variation (%CV) as an indicator of GV. We investigated all-cause mortality at 6 month and 1 year after discharge.

Results

The study analyzed 2,617 patients (median age 72 years, 53% male). During the median follow-up period of 11 months, 583 (22%) patients died. Compared to alive patients, patients who died had a significantly higher diabetes prevalence (46% vs. 41%, P=0.035) and higher %CV (31.0% vs. 27.5%, P<0.001). Kaplan-Meier curve analysis revealed that a high GV (%CV >21%) was associated with lower cumulative survival to all-cause death compared with a low GV (%CV ≤21%) (log-rank P<0.001). Multivariate Cox proportional analysis showed that a high GV was associated with an increased risk of 6-month mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 2.02, 95% CI 1.58–2.59, P<0.001) and one-year mortality (HR 1.57, 95% CI 1.29–1.91, P<0.001). The risk of high GV for one-year mortality was significant in non-diabetic patients (HR 1.98, 95% CI 1.55–2.53, P<0.001), but not in diabetic patients (HR 1.24, 95% CI 0.91–1.69, P=0.176; P-for-interaction=0.030).

Conclusion

A high GV (%CV >21%) before discharge was associated with all-cause mortality within 1 year, especially in non-diabetic acute HF patients.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

The association between frailty and physical performance in elderly patients with heart failure

Background

Frailty is known to be an important prognostic indicator in heart failure (HF). The Korean version of the frail scale for Koreans (K-FRAIL) has been developed and verified. The purpose of this study is to analyze the relationship between the K-FRAIL scale and physical performance, including muscular fitness and aerobic capacity in patients with HF.

Methods

This study included 143 HF patients aged over 65 years from a single tertiary hospital. In these subjects, muscular fitness was assessed using the handgrip test and knee extensor strength measurement, and aerobic capacity was assessed by cardiopulmonary exercise test and 6-minute walk test. Frailty status was measured using the K-FRAIL questionnaire and was classified as robust (K-FRAIL scale: 0), prefrail (1–2), and frail (3–5).

Results

Mean age of participants with robust (N=37), prefrail (N=75), and frail (N=31) were 72.5, 73.5, and 76.3 years, respectively. There was no difference in sex and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) among groups, but the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was significantly lower as frailty status increased (75.6±17.2 vs. 70.0±20.5 vs. 56.1±23.7 mL/min/1.73 m2; P<0.001). Hand-grip strength and knee extensor muscle strength did not differ among groups. However, peak oxygen consumption (peak VO2; 22.8±5.0 vs. 19.3±4.6 vs. 16.9±4.7 mL/kg/min, P<0.001) and 6-min walk distance (458.4±68.2 vs. 404.5±92.3 vs. 311.2±120.5 m; p<0.001) significantly decreased according to frailty severity. In multivariate regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, haemoglobin, eGFR and LVEF, peak VO2 (β=−0.311; P=0.002) and 6-min walk distance (β=−0.384; P<0.001) showed a significant inverse association with the K-FRAIL scale. With the cut-off value from receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis, peak VO2 (hazard ratio, 5.08; p=0.023) and 6MWT (hazard ratio, 3.99; p=0.020) were independent predictor of frailty according to K-FRAIL scale.

Conclusion

In elderly HF patients, physical performance differs according to frailty status, peak VO2 and 6-min walk distance correlates with the K-FRAIL scale better than muscular fitness.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Impact of metformin on the all-cause mortality in diabetic patients hospitalized with acute heart failure

Introduction

Although the hypothesis that metformin is beneficial for diabetic patients with heart failure (HF) has been steadily raised, there have been no solid data on the efficacy of metformin in acute HF patients.

Purpose

We investigated the impact of metformin on all-cause mortality in hospitalized acute HF patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

The Korean Acute Heart Failure registry enrolled patients hospitalized for acute HF from 2011 to 2014. Among this cohort, we analyzed patients with diabetes. We investigated all-cause mortality at 1 year after discharge. Propensity score matching (1:1 matching) and Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess difference in all-cause mortality.

Results

The study analyzed 1,976 diabetic patients (median age 72 years, mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) 34%, 54.5% male). Among them, 712 (36%) patients were on metformin. After 1:1 propensity score matching, 1,424 patients (712 metformin users vs. 712 non-users) were analyzed. During the median follow-up period of 11 months, 146 (21%) metformin non-users died and 108 (15%) metformin users died. Kaplan-Meier curves showed a higher all-cause mortality rate in non-users than in metformin users (Log-rank P=0.0025). After adjustment for clinically relevant variables, metformin was associated with lower risk for all-cause mortality (HR 0.713, 95% CI 0.551–0.922, P=0.01). In subgroup analyses, metformin use was significantly associated with a lower all-cause mortality in higher eGFR group (≥60 ml/min/1.73 m2, HR 0.531, 95% CI 0.357–0.790, P=0.002), but not in lower eGFR group (<60 ml/min/1.73 m2, HR 0.905, 95% CI 0.643–1.275, P=0.569, P-for-interaction=0.033). There was no significant interaction of metformin use for all-cause mortality between the subgroups with LVEF ≤40% and LVEF >40% (P-for-interaction=0.906).

Conclusion

Metformin use was associated with a lower risk for 1-year all-cause mortality in diabetic acute HF patients, especially in high eGFR group.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Host-directed antimycobacterial activity of colchicine, an anti-gout drug, via strengthened host innate resistance reinforced by the IL-1β/PGE2 axis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

To diversify and expand possible tuberculosis (TB) drug candidates and maximize limited global resources, we investigated the effect of colchicine, an FDA-approved anti-gout drug, against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection because of its immune-modulating effect.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

We evaluated the intracellular anti-Mtb activity of different concentrations of colchicine in murine bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs). To elucidate the underlying mechanism, RNA sequencing, biological and chemical inhibition assays, and Western blot, quantitative real-time PCR, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunohistochemical analyses were employed. Finally, type I interferon-dependent highly TB-susceptible A/J mice were challenged with virulent Mtb H37Rv, and the host-directed therapeutic effect of oral colchicine administration on bacterial burdens and lung inflammation was assessed 30 days post-infection (2.5 mg·kg^-1 every two days).

KEY RESULTS

Colchicine reinforced the anti-Mtb activity of BMDMs without affecting cell viability, indicating that colchicine facilitated macrophage immune activation upon Mtb infection. The results from RNA sequencing, NLRP3 knockout BMDM, IL-1 receptor blockade, and immunohistochemistry analyses revealed that this unexpected intracellular anti-Mtb activity of colchicine was mediated through NLRP3-dependent IL-1β signalling and Cox-2-regulated PGE₂ production in macrophages. Consequently, the TB-susceptible A/J mouse model showed remarkable protection, with decreased bacterial loads in both the lungs and spleens of oral colchicine-treated mice, with significantly elevated Cox-2 expression at infection sites.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The repurposing of colchicine against Mtb infection in this study highlights its unique function in macrophages upon Mtb infection and its novel potential use in treating TB as host-directed or adjunctive therapy.

Toll-like receptor 4 signaling-mediated responses are critically engaged in optimal host protection against highly virulent Mycobacterium tuberculosis K infection

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play critical roles in the innate recognition of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) by host immune cells. However, controversy has arisen regarding the role of TLR4 in determining the outcomes of Mtb infection. To address this controversy, the function of TLR4 in the induction of an optimal protective immune response against the highly virulent Mtb K-infection was comparatively investigated in C3 H/HeJ (TLR4-deficient mutant) and C3 H/HeN (TLR4-competent wild-type) mice. Interestingly, following Mtb infection, C3 H/HeJ mice showed a more severe disease phenotype than C3 H/HeN mice, exhibiting reduced weight and a marked increase in bacterial burden along with necrotic lung inflammation. Analysis of the immune cell composition revealed significantly increased neutrophils in the lung and significant production of IL-10 accompanied by the impairment of the protective Th1 response in C3 H/HeJ mice. Reducing the neutrophil numbers by treating C3 H/HeJ mice with an anti-Ly6 G monoclonal antibody (mAb) and blocking IL-10 signaling with an anti-IL-10 receptor mAb reduced the excessive lung inflammation and bacterial burden in C3 H/HeJ mice. Therefore, abundant IL-10 signaling and neutrophils have detrimental effects in TLR4-deficient mice during Mtb infection. However, the blockade of IL-10 signaling produced an increase in the CD11b^hiLy6 G^hi neutrophil population, but the phenotypes of these neutrophils were different from those of the CD11b^intLy6 G^int neutrophils from mice with controlled infections. Collectively, these results show that TLR4 positively contributes to the generation of an optimal protective immunity against Mtb infection. Furthermore, investigating the TLR4-mediated response will provide insight for the development of effective control measures against tuberculosis.

P3520Admission hyperglycemia is a predictor of mortality of acute heart failure: comparison between patients with and without diabetes mellitus

Background

Regardless of diabetes mellitus (DM), admission hyperglycemia is not uncommon in patients with acute heart failure (AHF). Although DM is a well-known predictor of mortality in AHF, the impacts of admission hyperglycemia on clinical outcomes in non-DM patients with AHF have been poorly studied. The aim of this study, therefore, was to compare the impact of admission hyperglycemia on long-term clinical outcomes in AHF patients with or without DM.

Methods

Among 5,625 AHF patients enrolled in a nationwide registry, a total of 5,541 patients were enrolled and divided into 2 groups; DM group (n=2,125, 70.4±11.4 years) vs. non-DM group (n=3,416, 67.3±16.0 years). Each group were further divided into 2 groups according to the presence of admission hyperglycemia (admission serum glucose level >200mg/dl); admission hyperglycemia (n=248) and no hyperglycemia (n=3,168) in non-DM; admission hyperglycemia (n=799) and no hyperglycemia (n=1,326) in DM. All-cause death and hospitalization due to HF (HHF) during 1-year follow-up were compared.

Results

Death was developed in 1,220 patients (22.2%) including 269 inhospital deaths (4.9%) during 1-year of follow-up. Death rate were significantly higher in DM than in non-DM group (24.8% vs 20.5%, p<0.001), however there was no difference in inhospital death (5.1% vs 4.7%, p=0.534). Both inhospital death (7.6% vs. 4.2%, p<0.001) and 1-year death (26.2% vs. 21.3%, p=0.001) were more frequent in AHF patients with hyperglycemia. On Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis, however, admission hyperglycemia was associated with significantly higher death (p<0.001 by log-rank test) and rehospitalization (p=0.006 by log-rank test) in non-DM group, but not in DM group. In non-DM group, admission hyperglycemia was an independent predictor of 1-year mortality (HR 1.46, 95% CI 1.10–1.93, p=0.009).

Conclusion

DM was a significant predictor of long-term mortality in patients with AHF. Admission hyperglycemia was associated with both higher inhospital and 1-year mortality. The present study also demonstrated that admission hyperglycemia is an independent predictor of mortality in non-DM patients with AHF, but not in DM patients. In addition to the presence of DM, admission hyperglycemia would be a useful marker in the risk stratification of AHF, especially in non-DM patients.

P3453Gender difference in impact of ischemic heart disease on long-term outcome in patients with heart failure reduced ejection fraction

Background

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is a major underlying etiology in patients with heart failure (HF). Although the impact of IHD on HF is evolving, there is a lack of understanding of how IHD affects long-term clinical outcomes and uncertainty about the role of IHD in determining the risk of clinical outcomes by gender.

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the gender difference in impact of IHD on long-term clinical outcomes in patients with heart failure reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).

Methods

Study data were obtained from the nationwide registry which is a prospective multicenter cohort and included patients who were hospitalized for HF composed of 3,200 patients. A total of 1,638 patients with HFrEF were classified into gender (women 704 and men 934). The primary outcome was all-cause death during follow-up and the composite clinical events of all-cause death and HF readmission during follow-up were also obtained. HF readmission was defined as re-hospitalization because of HF exacerbation.

Results

133 women (18.9%) were died and 168 men (18.0%) were died during follow-up (median 489 days; inter-quartile range, 162–947 days). As underlying cause of HF, IHD did not show significant difference between genders. Women with HFrEF combined with IHD had significantly lower cumulative survival rate than women without IHD at long-term follow-up (74.8% vs. 84.9%, Log Rank p=0.001, Figure 1). However, men with HFrEF combined with IHD had no significant difference in survival rate compared with men without IHD (79.3% vs. 83.8%, Log Rank p=0.067). After adjustment for confounding factors, Cox regression analysis showed that IHD had a 1.43-fold increased risk for all-cause mortality independently only in women. (odds ratio 1.43, 95% confidence interval 1.058–1.929, p=0.020). On the contrary to the death-free survival rates, there were significant differences in composite clinical events-free survival rates between patients with HFrEF combined with IHD and HFrEF without IHD in both genders.

Figure 1

Conclusions

IHD as predisposing cause of HF was an important risk factor for long-term mortality in women with HFrEF. Clinician need to aware of gender-based characteristics in patients with HF and should manage and monitor them appropriately and gender-specifically. Women with HF caused by IHD also should be treated more meticulously to avoid a poor prognosis.

Acknowledgement/Funding

None

P3555Lower native T1, extracellular volume and T2 on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging is related to more left ventricular reverse remodeling in nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy

Introduction

Guideline-directed medical therapy can induce left ventricular reverse remodeling (LVRR) in nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NIDCM). Some predictors for LVRR have been reported but, there were few studies about the relationship between cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) parameters and LVRR in NIDCM on optimal GDMT.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed echocardiogram and CMR data of newly diagnosed 142 NIDCM patients (age: 57±16 years old, 71.8% male) in a single center from Jan 2012 to Dec 2017. NIDCM was defined as left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <45% and the ischemic etiology was excluded by CMR, coronary angiography or coronary CT or SPECT scan. LVRR was defined as improvement in LVEF ≥10% during follow-up period (median 403 days).

Results

Baseline LVEF and LV end diastolic dimension (LVEDD) were 27±8% and 64±8 mm. There were 87 patients (61.3%) of LVRR in our cohort. In LVRR group, native T1 value was significantly lower (1326±66 for LVRR vs 1369±72ms, p<0.001), extracellular volume (ECV) was significantly lower (28.3±3.6 for LVRR vs 32.4±4.4%, p<0.001), and T2 value was significantly lower (49.6±4.6 for LVRR vs 52.1±5.4ms, p=0.004) compared with non-LVRR group. ECV was an independent predictor for LVRR after adjusting current LVRR predictors such as age, sex, LVEF, LVEDD, systolic blood pressure, heart rate and QRS duration (Odd ratio 0.706, 95% confidence interval 0.616–0.809, p<0.001).

Conclusion

Lower native T1, ECV and T2 on CMR is related to higher incidence of LVRR in NIDCM. Further larger prospective study should be warranted to confirm the relationship between CMR parameters and LVRR in NIDCM.

PPE39 of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis strain Beijing/K induces Th1-cell polarization through dendritic cell maturation

In a previous study, we have identified MTBK_24820, the complete protein form of PPE39 in the hypervirulent Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) strain Beijing/K by using comparative genomic analysis. PPE39 exhibited vaccine potential against Mtb challenge in a murine model. Thus, in this present study, we characterize PPE39-induced immunological features by investigating the interaction of PPE39 with dendritic cells (DCs). PPE39-treated DCs display reduced dextran uptake and enhanced MHC-I, MHC-II, CD80 and CD86 expression, indicating that this PPE protein induces phenotypic DC maturation. In addition, PPE39-treated DCs produce TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-12p70 to a similar and/or greater extent than lipopolysaccharide-treated DCs in a dose-dependent manner. The activating effect of PPE39 on DCs was mediated by TLR4 through downstream MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways. Moreover, PPE39-treated DCs promoted naïve CD4⁺ T-cell proliferation accompanied by remarkable increases of IFN-γ and IL-2 secretion levels, and an increase in the Th1-related transcription factor T-bet but not in Th2-associated expression of GATA-3, suggesting that PPE39 induces Th1-type T-cell responses through DC activation. Collectively, the results indicate that the complete form of PPE39 is a so-far-unknown TLR4 agonist that induces Th1-cell biased immune responses by interacting with DCs.This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.

Vaccine efficacy of a Mycobacterium tuberculosis Beijing-specific proline-glutamic acid (PE) antigen against highly virulent outbreak isolates

Bacillus Calmette-Guerin vaccine confers insufficient pulmonary protection against tuberculosis (TB), particularly the Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) Beijing strain infection. Identification of vaccine antigens (Ags) by considering Mtb genetic diversity is crucial for the development of improved TB vaccine. MTBK_20640, a new Beijing genotype-specific proline-glutamic acid-family Ag, was identified by comparative genomic analysis. Its immunologic features were characterized by evaluating interactions with dendritic cells (DCs), and immunogenicity and vaccine efficacy were determined against highly virulent Mtb Beijing outbreak Korean Beijing (K) strain and HN878 strain in murine infection model. MTBK_20640 induced DCs via TLR2 and downstream MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways, effectively promoting naive CD4-positive (CD4⁺) T-cell proliferation and IFN-γ production. Different IFN-γ response was observed in mice infected with Mtb K or reference H37Rv strain. Significant induction of T helper type 1 cell-polarized Ag-specific multifunctional CD4⁺ T cells and a marked Ag-specific IgG2c response were observed in mice immunized with MTBK_20640/glucopyranosyl lipid adjuvant-stable emulsion. The immunization conferred long-term protection against 2 Mtb Beijing outbreak strains, as evidenced by a significant reduction in colony-forming units in the lung and spleen and reduced lung inflammation. MTBK_20640 vaccination conferred long-term protection against highly virulent Mtb Beijing strains. MTBK_20640 may be developed into a novel Ag component in multisubunit TB vaccines in the future.-Kwon, K. W., Choi, H.-H., Han, S. J., Kim, J.-S., Kim, W. S., Kim, H., Kim, L.-H., Kang, S. M., Park, J., Shin, S. J. Vaccine efficacy of a Mycobacterium tuberculosis Beijing-specific proline-glutamic acid (PE) antigen against highly virulent outbreak isolates.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis ESAT6 Drives the Activation and Maturation of Bone Marrow-Derived Dendritic Cells via TLR4-Mediated Signaling

6-kDa early secretory antigenic target (ESAT6), a virulent factor of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, is involved in immune regulation. However, the underlying mechanism behind the activation and maturation of dendritic cells (DCs) by ESAT6 remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the effect on TLRs signaling on the regulation of ESAT6-induced activation and maturation of DCs. ESAT6 induced production of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-12p40 in bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) from wild-type and TLR2-deficient mice, with this induction abolished in TLR4-deficient cells. NF-κB is essential for the ESAT6-induced production of the cytokines in BMDCs. TLR4 was also required for ESAT6-induced activation of NF-κB and MAPKs in BMDCs. ESAT6 additionally upregulated the expression of surface molecules CD80, CD86, and MHC-II, and also promoted the ability of CD4⁺ T cells to secrete IFN-γ via the TLR4-dependent pathway. Our findings suggest that TLR4 is critical in the activation and maturation of DCs in response to ESAT6.

In Vitro Red Fluorescence as an Indicator of Caries Lesion Activity

This in vitro study examined the utility of comparing red fluorescence between active and inactive caries lesions and investigated whether changes in red fluorescence and fluorescence loss are influenced by lesion activity following remineralization. Sixty-two noncavitated smooth surface caries lesions on extracted human teeth were classified into active or inactive lesions using the Nyvad system prior to a 12-day pH-cycling procedure. Quantitative light-induced fluorescence-digital images were used to measure fluorescence parameters before and after pH cycling. At baseline, the intensity (ΔR) and area (A_ΔR) of red fluorescence were 1.5- and 2.2-fold higher in active lesions than in inactive lesions (p<0.05). The ratio of A_ΔR to lesion area was associated with classification of active lesions (odds ratio = 1.031; 95% confidence interval = 1.005-1.058). After pH cycling, the active lesions showed about 2- and 8-fold greater reductions in the median values of A_ΔR and fluorescence loss related to lesion volume (ΔQ) compared with inactive lesions (p<0.05). In conclusion, red fluorescence differs depending on lesion activity, and the red fluorescence area and lesion volume change following remineralization. The results suggest that measuring red fluorescence may be a useful way of objectively evaluating lesion activity of smooth surface lesions.

IL-15 Generates IFN-γ-producing Cells Reciprocally Expressing Lymphoid-Myeloid Markers during Dendritic Cell Differentiation

Recently, interest in IL-15-differentiated cells has increased; however, the phenotypic definition of IL-15-differentiated bone marrow-derived cells (IL-15-DBMCs) is still under debate, particularly the generation of IFN-γ-producing innate cells such as premature NK (pre-mNK) cells, natural killer dendritic cells (NKDCs), interferon-producing killer dendritic cells (IKDCs), and type 1 innate lymphoid cells (ILC1s), all of which are IL-15-dependent. Here, we revisited the immunophenotypic characteristics of IFN-γ-producing IL-15-DBMCs and their functional role in the control of intracellular Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection. When comparing the cytokine levels between bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) and IL-15-DBMCs upon stimulation with various TLR agonists, only the CD11c^int population of IL-15-DBMCs produced significant levels of IFN-γ, decreased levels of MHC-II, and increased levels of B220. Neither BMDCs nor IL-15-DBMCs were found to express DX5 or NK1.1, which are representative markers for the NK cell lineage and IKDCs. When the CD11c^intB220⁺ population of IL-15-DBMCs was enriched, the Thy1.2⁺Sca-1⁺ population showed a marked increase in IFN-γ production. In addition, while depletion of the B220⁺ and Thy1.2⁺ populations of IL-15-DBMCs, but not the CD19⁺ population, inhibited IFN-γ production, enrichment of these cell populations increased IFN-γ. Ultimately, co-culture of sorted IFN-γ-producing B220⁺Thy1.2⁺ IL-15-DBMCs with Mtb-infected macrophages resulted in control of the intracellular growth of Mtb via the IFN-γ-nitric oxide axis in a donor cell number-dependent manner. Taken together, the results indicate that IFN-γ-producing IL-15-DBMCs could be redefined as CD11c^intB220⁺Thy1.2⁺Sca-1⁺ cells, which phenotypically resemble both IKDCs and ILC1s, and may have therapeutic potential for controlling infectious intracellular bacteria such as Mtb.

Pancreas-After-Islet Transplantation in Nonuremic Type 1 Diabetes: A Strategy for Restoring Durable Insulin Independence

Islet transplantation offers a minimally invasive approach for β cell replacement in diabetic patients with hypoglycemic unawareness. Attempts at insulin independence may require multiple islet reinfusions from distinct donors, increasing the risk of allogeneic sensitization. Currently, solid organ pancreas transplant is the only remaining surgical option following failed islet transplantation in the United States; however, the immunologic impact of repeated exposure to donor antigens on subsequent pancreas transplantation is unclear. We describe a case series of seven patients undergoing solid organ pancreas transplant following islet graft failure with long-term follow-up of pancreatic graft survival and renal function. Despite highly variable panel reactive antibody levels prior to pancreas transplant (mean 27 ± 35%), all seven patients achieved stable and durable insulin independence with a mean follow-up of 6.7 years. Mean hemoglobin A1c values improved significantly from postislet, prepancreas levels (mean 8.1 ± 1.5%) to postpancreas levels (mean 5.3 ± 0.1%; p = 0.0022). Three patients experienced acute rejection episodes that were successfully managed with thymoglobulin and methylprednisolone, and none of these preuremic type 1 diabetic recipients developed stage 4 or 5 chronic kidney disease postoperatively. These results support pancreas-after-islet transplantation with aggressive immunosuppression and protocol biopsies as a viable strategy to restore insulin independence after islet graft failure.

Genome-wide loss-of-function genetic screening identifies opioid receptor μ1 as a key regulator of L-asparaginase resistance in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia

L-asparaginase is a critical chemotherapeutic agent for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). It hydrolyzes plasma asparagine into aspartate and NH₃, causing asparagine deficit and inhibition of protein synthesis and eventually, leukemic cell death. However, patient relapse often occurs due to development of resistance. The molecular mechanism by which ALL cells acquire resistance to L-asparaginase is unknown. Therefore, we sought to identify genes that are involved in L-asparaginase resistance in primary leukemic cells. By unbiased genome-wide RNAi screening, we found that among 10 resistant ALL clones, six hits were for opioid receptor mu 1 (oprm1), two hits were for carbonic anhydrase 1 (ca1) and another two hits were for ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2C (ube2c). We also found that OPRM1 is expressed in all leukemic cells tested. Specific knockdown of OPRM1 confers L-asparaginase resistance, validating our genome-wide retroviral shRNA library screening data. Methadone, an agonist of OPRM1, enhances the sensitivity of parental leukemic cells, but not OPRM1-depleted cells, to L-asparaginase treatment, indicating that OPRM1 is required for the synergistic action of L-asparaginase and methadone, and that OPRM1 loss promotes leukemic cell survival likely through downregulation of the OPRM1-mediated apoptotic pathway. Consistent with this premise, patient leukemic cells with relatively high levels of OPRM1 are more sensitive to L-asparaginase treatment compared to OPRM1-depleted leukemic cells, further indicating that OPRM1 loss has a crucial role in L-asparaginase resistance in leukemic patients. Thus, our study demonstrates for the first time, a novel OPRM1-mediated mechanism for L-asparaginase resistance in ALL, and identifies OPRM1 as a functional biomarker for defining high-risk subpopulations and for the detection of evolving resistant clones. Oprm1 may also be utilized for effective treatment of L-asparaginase-resistant ALL.

Adiponectin receptor-mediated signaling ameliorates cerebral cell damage and regulates the neurogenesis of neural stem cells at high glucose concentrations: an in vivo and in vitro study

In the central nervous system (CNS), hyperglycemia leads to neuronal damage and cognitive decline. Recent research has focused on revealing alterations in the brain in hyperglycemia and finding therapeutic solutions for alleviating the hyperglycemia-induced cognitive dysfunction. Adiponectin is a protein hormone with a major regulatory role in diabetes and obesity; however, its role in the CNS has not been studied yet. Although the presence of adiponectin receptors has been reported in the CNS, adiponectin receptor-mediated signaling in the CNS has not been investigated. In the present study, we investigated adiponectin receptor (AdipoR)-mediated signaling in vivo using a high-fat diet and in vitro using neural stem cells (NSCs). We showed that AdipoR1 protects cell damage and synaptic dysfunction in the mouse brain in hyperglycemia. At high glucose concentrations in vitro, AdipoR1 regulated the survival of NSCs through the p53/p21 pathway and the proliferation- and differentiation-related factors of NSCs via tailless (TLX). Hence, we suggest that further investigations are necessary to understand the cerebral AdipoR1-mediated signaling in hyperglycemic conditions, because the modulation of AdipoR1 might alleviate hyperglycemia-induced neuropathogenesis.

Impairment of insulin receptor substrate 1 signaling by insulin resistance inhibits neurite outgrowth and aggravates neuronal cell death

In the central nervous system (CNS), insulin resistance (I/R) can cause defective neurite outgrowth and neuronal cell death, which can eventually lead to cognitive deficits. Recent research has focused on the relationship between I/R and the cognitive impairment caused by dementia, with the goal of developing treatments for dementia. Insulin signal transduction mediated by insulin receptor substrate (IRS-1) has been thoroughly studied in the CNS of patients with I/R. In the present study, we investigated whether the impairment of IRS-1-mediated insulin signaling contributes to neurite outgrowth and neuronal loss, both in mice fed a high-fat diet and in mouse neuroblastoma (Neuro2A) cells. To investigate the changes caused by the inhibition of IRS-1-mediated insulin signaling in the brain, we performed Cresyl Violet staining and immunochemical analysis. To investigate the changes caused by the inhibition of IRS-1-mediated insulin signaling in neuroblastoma cells, we performed Western blot analysis, reverse transcription-PCR, and immunochemical analysis. We show that the deactivation of IRS-1-mediated insulin signaling can inhibit neuronal outgrowth and aggravate neuronal cell death in the insulin-resistant CNS. Thus, IRS-1-mediated insulin signal transduction may be an important factor in the treatment of cognitive decline induced by I/R.

Changes in masticatory function after injection of botulinum toxin type A to masticatory muscles

This study examined changes in masticatory function after botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) injection using objective and subjective tests during 12 weeks. Also, we compared differences in masticatory function between group in which only masseter muscle (M group) was injected and group in which masseter and temporal muscle (M-T group) were injected. Forty subjects were assigned into two groups; M group (n = 20) and the M-T group (n = 20). The Meditoxin(®) was used as BTX-A injection. The mixing ability index (MAI) was used as the objective indicator, and visual analogue scale (VAS) and food intake ability (FIA) index were used as subjective indicators. Overall, the masticatory function drastically declined after 4 weeks and gradually recovered with time. Compared with the pre-injection state, the masticatory function decreased by 89·2% (MAI), 12·2% (FIA) and 32·2% (VAS) 4 weeks after the injection (P < 0·05). When the results between M group and M-T group were compared, scores of VAS and FIA were significantly different 4 weeks after the injection (P < 0·05), but the MAI score showed no significant difference between two groups. In conclusion, this study showed that masticatory function was significantly decreased after BTX-A injection into the masticatory muscle after 4 and 8 weeks from injection. However, masticatory efficiency measured using MAI could completely recover after 12 weeks. Furthermore, after 8 weeks from the injection, the masticatory function measured after injection into only the masseter muscle was similar to that measured after injection into both masseter and temporal muscle.

Comparison between sitagliptin as add-on therapy to insulin and insulin dose-increase therapy in uncontrolled Korean type 2 diabetes: CSI study

AIM

Individuals requiring insulin therapy for type 2 diabetes often require escalation of their regimen to achieve glycaemic control. Optimal management strategies for uncontrolled type 2 diabetes would improve glycaemic control without hypoglycaemia and weight gain. This study compared the efficacy and tolerability of adding sitagliptin, an oral dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor, and an up to 20% increase in insulin dose in patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes on insulin therapy.

METHODS

We conducted a 24-week, randomized, active-competitor, parallel-group study in subjects with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes [haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) = 7.5-11%] currently using insulin therapy. Subjects were randomly assigned to either the sitagliptin adding (100 mg daily, n = 70) or an insulin-increasing arm (≥ 10% at week 12 and ≥ 10% at week 24, n = 70) while continuing other medications.

RESULTS

Average baseline HbA1c was 9.2% in both groups. HbA1c decreased more at 24 weeks in the sitagliptin adding than the insulin-increasing arm (-0.6 ± 0.1% vs. -0.2 ± 0.1%, p < 0.01). Insulin was increased by 25% at 24 weeks in the insulin-increasing group. Hypoglycaemic events were less common and less severe in sitagliptin adding arm than insulin-increasing arm (7.0 vs. 14.3 events per patient-year, p < 0.05). Weight was stable in the sitagliptin adding subjects (68.6 ± 11.6 vs. 68.1 ± 11.4 kg) but increased in the insulin-increasing subjects (66.2 ± 10.6 vs. 67.4 ± 9.7 kg, p < 0.05). Other adverse events occurred at similar rates in both arms.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to a 25% increase in insulin dose, adding sitagliptin to an insulin-based regimen was more effective at lowering HbA1c and associated with less hypoglycaemia and weight gain over 24 weeks.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER

NCT01100125.

Comparison of peripheral nerve damages according to glucose control timing in experimental diabetes

OBJECTIVE

In addition to tight glucose control, early intensive therapy has been reported to be more important for the prevention of diabetic micro- and macro-vascular complications. What is not known exactly is the quantitative difference according to timing delay in glucose control and whether early period control is really better than late control in terms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. In this study, we investigated the effect of timing differences in glucose control on the peripheral nerves in an experimental diabetic model.

METHODS

5 groups (6-8 rats in each group) were comprised of normal glucose rats (designated control), rats with hyperglycemia (designated DM), rats with glucose control for the entire 28-week study period (designated DM + INS [W0-28]), rats with glucose control for the early 14-week period followed by hyperglycemia for the late 14-week period (designated DM + INS [W0-14]), and rats with hyperglycemia for the early 14-week period followed by glucose control in the late 14-week period (designated DM + INS [W15-28]).

RESULTS

We found that the current perception threshold (CPT) was lower in the DM + INS (W0-28) and DM + INS (W15-28) groups than in the DM + INS (W0-14) or DM groups (P<0.05). The mean myelinated fiber area of the sciatic nerve was significantly greater in the DM + INS (W0-28) and DM + INS (W15-28) groups (63.5±2.32 and 60.1±2.14 um, respectively) than in the DM + INS (W0-14) or DM groups (55.5±2.81 or 51.5±2.64 um, respectively) (P<0.05), and the intraepidermal nerve fiber (IENF) density was significantly higher in the DM + INS (W0-28) and DM + INS (W15-28) groups (6.9±0.46 and 6.8±0.11, respectively) than in the DM + INS (W0-14) or DM groups (59.5±0.32 and 5.3±0.39/mm, respectively) (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that continuous glucose control is necessary to alleviate peripheral nerve damage and that glycemic control during the later period may be more important than early period management. The importance of continuous glucose control, including the later period of diabetes, should therefore be emphasized in diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Nonstructural 5A protein of hepatitis C virus regulates heat shock protein 72 for its own propagation

We identified heat shock protein 72 (Hsp72) as a host factor that was differentially expressed in cells expressing nonstructural 5A (NS5A) protein. To investigate how NS5A modulates Hsp72 in hepatitis C virus (HCV) life cycle, we examined the role of Hsp72 in HCV replication and virus production. NS5A specifically interacted with Hsp72. Both Hsp72 and nuclear factor of activated T cells 5 (NFAT5) levels were increased in cells expressing NS5A protein. Treatments of N-acetylcysteine and glutathione markedly reduced protein levels of both NFAT5 and Hsp72. Knockdown of NFAT5 resulted in decrease in Hsp72 level in cells expressing NS5A. Importantly, silencing of Hsp72 expression resulted in decrease in both RNA replication and virus production in HCV-infected cells. These data indicate that NS5A modulates Hsp72 via NFAT5 and reactive oxygen species activation for HCV propagation.

Decreased risk of graft failure with maternal liver transplantation in patients with biliary atresia

The presence of maternal cells in offspring may promote tolerance to noninherited maternal antigens (NIMAs). Children with biliary atresia (BA) have increased maternal cells in their livers, which may impact tolerance. We hypothesized that patients with BA would have improved outcomes when receiving a maternal liver. We reviewed all pediatric liver transplants recorded in the SRTR database from 1996 to 2010 and compared BA and non-BA recipients of maternal livers with recipients of paternal livers for the incidences of graft failure and retransplantation. Rejection episodes after parental liver transplantation were examined for patients transplanted at our institution. BA patients receiving a maternal graft had lower rates of graft failure compared to those receiving a paternal graft (3.7% vs. 10.5%, p = 0.02) and, consequently, fewer episodes of retransplantation (2.7% vs. 7.5%, p = 0.04). These differences were not seen among non-BA patients or among BA patients who received female deceased donor grafts. In patients transplanted at our institution, paternal liver transplantation was associated with an increased incidence of refractory rejection compared to maternal liver transplantation only in BA. Our data support the concept that maternal cells in BA recipients promote tolerance to NIMAs and may be important in counseling BA patients who require liver transplantation.

Novel vaccines against influenza viruses

Killed and live attenuated influenza virus vaccines are effective in preventing and curbing the spread of influenza epidemics when the strains present in the vaccines are closely matched with the predicted epidemic strains. These vaccines are primarily targeted to induce immunity to the variable major target antigen, hemagglutinin (HA) of influenza virus. However, current vaccines are not effective in preventing the emergence of new pandemic or highly virulent viruses. New approaches are being investigated to develop universal influenza virus vaccines as well as to apply more effective vaccine delivery methods. Conserved vaccine targets including the influenza M2 ion channel protein and HA stalk domains are being developed using recombinant technologies to improve the level of cross protection. In addition, recent studies provide evidence that vaccine supplements can provide avenues to further improve current vaccies.

Impact of polar ozone depletion on subtropical precipitation

Over the past half-century, the ozone hole has caused a poleward shift of the extratropical westerly jet in the Southern Hemisphere. Here, we argue that these extratropical circulation changes, resulting from ozone depletion, have substantially contributed to subtropical precipitation changes. Specifically, we show that precipitation in the southern subtropics in austral summer increases significantly when climate models are integrated with reduced polar ozone concentrations. Furthermore, the observed patterns of subtropical precipitation change, from 1979 to 2000, are very similar to those in our model integrations, where ozone depletion alone is prescribed. In both climate models and observations, the subtropical moistening is linked to a poleward shift of the extratropical westerly jet. Our results highlight the importance of polar regions for the subtropical hydrological cycle.

Controllable dimension of ZnO nanowalls on GaN/c-Al2O3 substrate by vapor phase epitaxy method

Vertically well-aligned ZnO nanowalls were successfully synthesized at 950-1050 degrees C. Ar gas was introduced into the furnace at a flow rate of 2000-2500 sccm. An Au thin film with a thickness of 3 nm was used as a catalyst. The ZnO nanowalls were successfully grown on the substrate and most of them had nearly the same thickness and were oriented perpendicular to the substrate. The morphology and chemical composition of the ZnO nanowalls were examined as a function of the growth conditions examined. It was found that the grown ZnO nanowalls have a single-crystalline hexagonal structure and preferred c-axis growth orientation based on the X-ray diffraction and high-resolution transmission electron microscope measurements. The room temperature photoluminescence showed a strong free-exciton emission band with negligible deep level emission, indicating the high optical property of our ZnO nanowall samples.

Luminescence tuning of amorphous Si quantum dots prepared by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition

Amorphous Si (a-Si) quantum dots (QDs) embedded in a silicon nitride film were prepared by a plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) technique using gaseous mixtures of silane, hydrogen and nitrogen. We observed that the Si QDs had an amorphous structure from the Raman spectroscopy measurement. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra showed that the relative transmittance of the SiH bands decreased, but that of the NH bands increased, with increasing nitrogen flow rate. During the deposition of SiNx, the number of dangling bonds of silicon acting as nucleation sites increased. As the hydrogen flow rate increased the growth rate decreased, due to the reduction in the hydrogen partial pressure. The hydrogen and nitrogen gas flow rates were found to be important parameters for determining the size of the a-Si QDs. In addition, we observed that the PL peak shifted toward a higher energy with increasing hydrogen and nitrogen gas flow rates, which was attributed to the increase in the quantum confinement effect in the a-Si QDs.

Monoclonal antibody recognizing N-terminal epitope of hepatitis C virus nonstructural 5B inhibits viral RNA replication

The nonstructural 5B (NS5B) protein of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) with a key role in HCV replication. To characterize the functional roles of NS5B in HCV replication, we produced a panel of 10 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) directed against NS5B protein from mice immunized with functionally active RdRp. The epitopes of eight mAbs are localized in the middle region (amino acid 240-263) of NS5B protein. On the other hand, the epitopes of two mAbs are mapped to amino acids 67-88 at the N-terminus of NS5B protein. To examine the effects of mAbs on HCV-RNA replication, we performed in vitro RdRp assay using either the 3'-untranslated region (UTR) or the full-length of HCV-RNA as a template in the presence of each mAb. mAbs specific for the middle region of NS5B had no effect on RdRp activity. Surprisingly, mAb recognizing the N-terminal region of NS5B inhibited RdRp activity in a dose-dependent manner. We have confirmed the same result using the other subclass of mAb, whose epitope is also localized to the same N-terminal region of NS5B. These data show that NS5B contains a B-cell epitope located between amino acid residues 67 and 88. Binding of this epitope with an antibody interferes with the enzymatic function of NS5B.

CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells in transplantation: progress, challenges and prospects

The involvement of CD4(+)CD25(+) regulatory T cells (Treg) in general immune homeostasis and protection from autoimmune syndromes is now well established. Similarly, there has been increasing evidence for Treg involvement in allograft rejection and current immunotherapies. However, despite significant advances in understanding the development, function, and therapeutic efficacy of Treg in certain well-defined rodent models, the relevance of Treg to clinical transplantation remains unclear. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the role of Treg in immunity and organ transplantation in experimental and clinical settings. In addition, we review advances in using Treg as a form of immune therapy. The goal is to highlight the complexities and opportunities in the field and to provide evidence to support the use of antigen-specific Tregs in the context of transplantation to facilitate a robust and selective state of immune tolerance.

Experience with steroid-free maintenance immunosuppression in simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation

INTRODUCTION

Steroid avoidance is possible in simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation with the use of newer immunosuppressive agents and induction therapy. We undertook a retrospective consecutive case review of patients treated at a university tertiary referral center.

METHODS

Medical records of 44 consecutive patients receiving a pancreas-kidney transplant from November 2000 to September 2002 were reviewed. The immunosuppression protocol used in this series of patients consisted of thymoglobulin induction, combined with mycophenolate mofetil, tacrolimus, and sirolimus for maintenance immunosuppression. Steroids were used only while thymoglobulin was given and were typically discontinued by postoperative week 1. Main outcome measures included graft and patient survival rates, rejection rates of the kidney or pancreas, infection rates, and surgical complication rates.

RESULTS

All 44 patients received a kidney-pancreas transplant with systemic venous anastomosis and enteric drainage of the pancreas. Patient kidney, and pancreas survival rates were 95.6%, 93.2%, and 88.7%, respectively. Biopsy-proven pancreas rejection rates at 1 and 6 months posttransplant were 2.3% and 2.3%. Kidney rejection rates at 1 and 6 months were 2.3% and 4.6%. Reasons for patient loss included one death from sepsis and one cardiovascular death. Reasons for kidney loss besides death included a thrombotic microangiopathy. Reasons for pancreas loss included three thromboses, one mild rejection/infection, and one duodenal segment leak with infection. All patients who have been free of rejection have been off steroids for the duration of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Newer immunosuppression protocols without maintenance steroids are possible with minimal rejection in the first 3 months and equivalent patient and graft survival rates compared with earlier protocols utilizing steroids. The potential beneficial long-term impact of steroid avoidance will require further study.

Laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy at the University of California San Francisco

Laparoscopic donor nephrectomy is quickly becoming the preferred technique for kidney retrieval, since it removes many of the disincentives of kidney donation. Our experience at UCSF has confirmed that the procedure is safe, with excellent donor recovery. The transplanted kidney appears to function as well as any kidney retrieved using an open technique, at least in the short-term. Development of a successful laparoscopic donor program is best done initially with a team approach, utilizing the skills of an advanced laparoscopic surgeon, and with careful patient selection. With time, the technique can be done well by properly trained transplant surgeons with basic laparoscopic skills, with or without a hand-assist technique. As experience grows, this procedure can be applied to virtually every potential donor, and hopefully will improve live kidney donation rates.

Expression of thrombospondin-1 inversely correlated with tumor vascularity and hematogenous metastasis in colon cancer

Solid tumors require neovascularization for growth and metastasis. Angiogenesis depends on the local balance between various molecules that induce and inhibit neovascularization. Thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) is thought to be an antiangiogenic factor. In this study, we examined the correlation between expression of TSP-1 and tumor vascularity, and determined its prognostic significance in colon cancer. Microvessel density, determined by immunostaining for factor VIII-related antigen, was significantly higher in tumors that were TSP-1-negative. TSP-1 expression was inversely correlated with prognosis. Patients with TSP-1-negative tumors had a significantly worse prognosis than did those with TSP-1-positive tumors. Frequency of hepatic recurrence was significantly higher in patients with tumors that were TSP-1-negative. In conclusion, TSP-1 is an important negative-regulator of tumor angiogenesis, and TSP-1 may be useful for predicting recurrence in patients with colon cancer.

A combination analysis of p53 and p21 in gastric carcinoma as a strong indicator for prognosis

We studied p53 and p21 expression simultaneously in gastric carcinoma tissues to investigate the clinical significance of p53-p21 pathway in this disease. One hundred sixty-four primary gastric carcinoma specimens were immunohistochemically stained for p53 and p21 protein, and clinicopathological features of the cases were examined. P53 was stained negatively, while p21 was stained positively in each normal stomach epithelium. P53, and p21 positive staining was observed in 82 (50%) and 61 (37.2%) tumors, respectively. Unexpectingly, no correlation was found between p53 and p21 staining status. Tumors demonstrating preserved p53-p21 pathway [p53(-)/p21(+)], observed in 20.1% of the tumors, displayed less aggressive characteristics, and no recurrent disease after curative resection. While tumors demonstrating disrupted p53-p21 pathway [p53(+)/p21(-)], observed in 32.9% of the tumors, displayed significantly more aggressive characteristics, poorer survival and higher recurrence rate than the tumors demonstrating other staining patterns. P53-p21 pathway was widely altered in gastric carcinomas. The combined evaluation of p53 and p21 expression in gastric carcinoma tissues is suggested to have clinical importance by indicating not only the malignant potential of each tumor, but also the prognosis of this disease.

Posttraumatic concerns: a patient-centered approach to outcome assessment after traumatic physical injury

BACKGROUND

Approximately 2.5 million Americans are admitted to the hospital after traumatic physical injury each year. Few investigations have elicited patients' perspectives regarding posttraumatic outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To identify and categorize physically injured trauma survivors' posttraumatic concerns.

RESEARCH DESIGN

Prospective longitudinal investigation; trauma survivors were interviewed during the post-injury hospitalization and again 1, 4, and 12 months after the trauma.

SUBJECTS

Ninety-seven, randomly selected, English speaking, hospitalized survivors of motor vehicle-crashes or assaults.

MEASURES

At the end of each interview patients were asked, "Of all the things that have happened to you since you were injured, what concerns you the most?" Using an iterative process and working by consensus, investigators categorized patient concerns in content domains. Concern domains were then compared with established measures of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and limitations in physical functioning.

RESULTS

Seven categories of posttraumatic concerns were identified. During the course of the year, 73% of patients expressed physical health concerns, 58% psychological concerns, 53% work and finance concerns, 40% social concerns, 10% legal concerns, 10% medical concerns, and 20% uncodable concerns. Rater agreement on concern categorization was substantial (kappa = 0.72). The mean number of concerns expressed per patient gradually decreased over time (1 month mean = 1.51; 12 month mean = 1.26) and resembled the trajectories of PTSD symptoms and functional limitations.

CONCLUSIONS

The concerns of physically injured trauma survivors are readily elicited and followed up during the course of the year after injury. Open-ended inquiry regarding posttraumatic concerns may complement standardized outcome assessments by identifying and contextualizing the outcomes of greatest importance to patients.

Effects of left atrial compliance on left atrial pressure in pure mitral stenosis

In mitral stenosis (MS), left atrial (LA) pressure is commonly elevated because of increased LA afterload. There is a wide spectrum of LA pressure in patients with MS, however, despite a similar mitral valve orifice area. LA compliance is an important determinant of both cardiovascular performance and pathological physiology. Few data are available, however, regarding the effects of LA compliance on LA pressure. We hypothesized that LA pressure may be higher in patients with decreased LA compliance. We analyzed the right heart and transseptal catheterization data in 47 patients (41 female, mean age 40 +/- 10 years) with pure MS and sinus rhythm. The magnitude of LA a and v waves was measured from transseptal catheterization. Fick's method was used to determine cardiac output. LA compliance was calculated by dividing the systolic rise in LA pressure (DeltaP(LA) = P(LA(v)) - P(LA(x))) into the stroke volume. LA size, mitral valve area (MVA), mean diastolic pressure gradient (MG), left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic and end-systolic dimensions were obtained by using two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography. Multiple regression analysis was performed to identify independent factors determining LA pressure. The mean MVA was 0.95 +/- 0.22 cm(2). MG and LA dimension were 11.2 +/- 5.2 mm Hg and 50.6 +/- 5.2 mm, respectively. The mean LA pressure and cardiac output obtained by cardiac catheterization were 23.4 +/- 8.4 mm Hg and 4.3 +/- 1.5 L/min, respectively. The calculated LA compliance was 4.9 +/- 2.8 cm(3)/mm Hg. Univariate analysis showed that factors associated with increased LA pressure were smaller MVA (r = -0.33, P < 0.05), higher MG (r = 0.69, P < 0.01) and lower LA compliance (r = -0.55, P < 0.01); among them, MG (beta coefficient 0.59, SE 0.19, P < 0.01) and LA compliance (beta coefficient -0.26, standard error 0.34, P < 0.05) were the strongest predictors of LA pressure. In conclusion, LA compliance, along with MG that reflects the severity of MS, is an important contributing factor determining LA pressure in patients with pure MS and sinus rhythm.

Assessment of elastic properties of the descending thoracic aorta by transesophageal echocardiography with acoustic quantification in patients with a stroke

Previous studies have described the use of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) with acoustic quantification (AQ) in assessing aortic elastic properties. We hypothesized that patients with a prior history of stroke (ST) may have a higher risk of atherosclerotic change in great vessels compared to nonstroke subjects (NST) and thus have decreased elastic properties. We assessed the elastic properties of the descending thoracic aorta (DTA) by TEE in ST patients and compared them with data in NST patients. Subjects included 31 with ST without any evidence of emboli originating from the heart (age 51 +/- 10 years, M:F = 20:11) and 25 age-matched NST (M:F = 8:17). Patients with significant valvular heart disease including aortic and mitral regurgitation, left ventricular dysfunction (ejection fraction < 55%), and congenital heart disease were excluded. Compliance (C), distensibility (D), and stiffness index (SI) were measured using AQ and M-mode measurement at a level of the left atrium. We scored atherosclerotic risk factors (ARF) such as a history of diabetes, hypertension, smoking, hypercholesterolemia, and the presence of atheroma of DTA. There was no evidence of atheroma of DTA in NST. There were no significant differences in heart rate and systolic and diastolic blood pressure between ST and NST patients. Fractional area change (FAC) of DTA was significantly lower in ST than in NST patients (3.2 +/- 1.6 vs 5.4 +/- 2.5%, P = 0.000). ST patients had significantly lower C (1.2 +/- 0.4 vs 1.5 +/- 0.7 x 10(-3) cm2 mmHg(-1), P = 0.039), lower D (0.8 +/- 0.3 vs 1.5 +/- 0.8 x 10(-3) mmHg(-1), P = 0.000), and higher SI (10.3 +/- 8.8 vs 5.3 +/- 2.9, P = 0.006) than NST patients. ST patients without atheroma of DTA (n = 21) also had significantly lower C (1.1 +/- 0.4 vs 1.5 +/- 0.7 x 10(-3) cm2 mmHg(-1), P = 0.038) and lower D (3.5 +/- 1.4 vs 4.8 +/- 2.4 x 10(-3) mmHg(-1), P = 0.021) than NST patients. There was a significant positive correlation between SI and the score of ARF (r = 0.51, P = 0.000). The regional elastic properties of DTA measured by TEE with AQ and M-mode method were abnormal in ST. Therefore, TEE with AQ technique may have a possible clinical application for the detection of early atherosclerotic changes such as alteration of elastic properties in morphological normal DTA.

Expression of osteopontin in calcified coronary atherosclerotic plaques

Advanced atherosclerosis is often associated with dystrophic calcification and remodeling of extracellular matrix of vascular wall. Recently many studies have documented a general relationship between calcification and severity of coronary disease, and discussed the feasibility of electron beam computed tomography for detecting and quantifying the coronary artery calcification in the patients. The present study investigated the expression and the localization of osteopontin, one of noncollagenous bone matrix protein, within the calcified coronary arteries. Autopsy-derived coronary artery specimens were scanned and reconstructed to visualize the pattern of coronary calcification using a novel microscopic computed tomography technique. The localization of the osteopontin were evaluated by immunohistochemial stain with LF7. The present study showed that the pattern of coronary calcification is variable and the expression of osteopontin is localized mainly to calcified lesion. The smooth muscle cells in addition to macrophage expressed osteopontin protein in human coronary atherosclerotic plaques. Soluble osteopontin released near to the sites of vascular calcification may represent an adaptive mechanism aimed at regulating the process of vascular calcification.

Patients with recognized psychiatric disorders in trauma surgery: incidence, inpatient length of stay, and cost

BACKGROUND

Although psychiatric disturbances are highly prevalent among traumatically injured inpatients, few investigations have assessed the impact of these disorders on surgical length of stay (LOS) and cost.

METHODS

The authors identified all trauma-registry recorded psychiatric diagnoses among patients admitted to University of California Davis Medical Center between January 1993 and December 1996. Linear and logistic regressions were used to assess the unique effects of psychiatric diagnoses on inpatient LOS and cost.

RESULTS

A total of 29% of patients had one or more registry-recorded psychiatric diagnosis. Patients with alcohol abuse diagnoses demonstrated 10% to 12% decreases in LOS and cost (p < 0.01), whereas patients with stress disorders, delirium, and psychoses demonstrated 46% to 103% increases in LOS and cost (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Patients with recognized psychiatric disorders uniquely impact inpatient trauma surgery LOS and cost. Additional investigations of the processes and outcomes of care could lead to cost-effective performance improvement efforts that target the amelioration of comorbid psychiatric disorders among physically injured trauma survivors.

Enhanced detection of left atrial spontaneous echo contrast by transthoracic harmonic imaging in mitral stenosis

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous echo contrast (SEC) of the left atrium is associated with increased risk of thromboembolism in patients with mitral stenosis (MS). The determination of the presence and severity of left atrial (LA) SEC is of prognostic importance in these patients. Harmonic imaging (HI), a novel echocardiographic technique that differs from conventional fundamental imaging (FI) in that it involves transmitting ultrasound at one frequency and receiving at twice the transmitted frequency, produces better endocardial border definition and myocardial opacification. However, there are no data about its value for the detection of LA SEC. The purpose of this study was to investigate the utility of transthoracic noncontrast tissue HI in the detection of LA SEC in patients with MS.

METHODS

Seventy-four consecutive patients with MS (49 women, mean age 51 years) underwent standard transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in both HI and FI modes and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) to determine the presence and severity of LA SEC. Left atrial SEC was graded by TEE as either mild (only seen at high gain) or severe (visible in the entire left atrium at normal gain control of the equipment). The control group comprised 30 patients randomly selected from patients who did not have LA SEC at the TEE examination.

RESULTS

Atrial fibrillation was found in 46 patients (62.2%). The mean mitral valve area and mean mitral gradient were 1.0+/-0.3 cm(2) and 8.2+/-4.1 mm Hg, respectively. Nine patients (12.2%) had episodes of systemic embolism; 8 had stroke, and 1 had peripheral embolism. Left atrial thrombus was found in 11 patients (14.9%) by TEE. Left atrial SEC was present in all but one patient by TEE (mild in 35 patients, severe in 38). Fundamental imaging with TTE, however, revealed LA SEC in only 5 (6.8%) of the 73 patients. In contrast, with HI, LA SEC could be detected in 63 (86.3%) patients. In the detection of severe LA SEC, the sensitivities of FI and HI were 13.2% (5/38) and 100% (38/38), respectively. Left atrial SEC was not observed in control subjects by either FI or HI.

CONCLUSIONS

Transthoracic HI significantly enhances the detection of LA SEC in patients with MS.

A case of endobronchial aspergilloma

Pulmonary aspergillosis may be classified under three categories, depending upon whether the host is atopic or immunocompromised: invasive aspergillosis, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) or aspergilloma. However, it is not always possible to effectively categorize this disease. We experienced a case of endobronchial aspergilloma, which was difficult to categorize, in a healthy male patient. The chest X-ray and computed tomography showed an ill-defined nodule mimicking lung cancer. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy revealed an aspergilloma without cavity formation in the left lower laterobasal segmental bronchial orifice. The aspergilloma was removed and the patient's symptoms were relieved. We present this unusual case with a review of the literature.

A non-cleavable mutant of Fas ligand does not prevent neutrophilic destruction of islet transplants

BACKGROUND

Fas ligand (FasL) mediates apoptosis of susceptible Fas-expressing lymphocytes, and may contribute to the maintenance of peripheral tolerance. In transplantation models, however, artificial expression of FasL on cellular as well as islet transplants results in accelerated rejection by neutrophils. The mechanism of the neutrophilic response to FasL expression is unknown. FasL, like other members of the tumor necrosis factor family, is cleaved to a soluble form by metalloproteases. We tested the hypothesis that soluble FasL (sFasL) was responsible for neutrophil migration by creating a non-cleavable mutant of FasL.

METHODS

Three mutants of FasL with serial deletions in the putative proteolytic cleavage site of human FasL were made using inverse polymerase chain reaction. The relative fractions of sFasL and membrane-bound FasL were assessed by Western blot and immunoprecipitation, as well as by cytotoxicity assay using Fas-expressing target cells. The fully non-cleavable mutant was transduced into murine islets as well as myoblasts and tumor cell lines, and tested in a murine transplantation model.

RESULTS

Serial deletions in the putative metalloprotease site of FasL resulted in a fully non-cleavable mutant of FasL (ncFasL). Expression of ncFasL in tumor lines induced higher levels of apoptosis in Fas bearing targets than wild-type FasL. Transplantation of ncFasL-expressing islets under the kidney capsule of allogenic mice resulted in accelerated rejection identical to that seen with wild-type Fas ligand-expressing islets. Myoblasts and tumor cell lines expressing ncFasL also induced neutrophil infiltration.

CONCLUSIONS

Membrane-bound Fas ligand is fully capable of inducing a neutrophilic response to transplants, suggesting an activation by Fas ligand of neutrophil chemotactic factors.

Is the left atrial v. wave the determinant of peak pulmonary artery pressure in patients with pure mitral stenosis?

A large left atrial (LA) v. wave can be observed in patients with pure mitral stenosis (MS) because of decreased LA compliance. Few data are available regarding the relation between the magnitude of the LA v wave and pulmonary artery pressure in MS. We hypothesized that pulmonary artery pressure may be higher in patients with decreased LA compliance and thus a large v. wave. We analyzed the right-sided cardiac and transseptal catheterization data in 113 patients (16 men and 97 women, mean age 39 years) with pure rheumatic MS in sinus rhythm. Peak systolic, diastolic, and mean pulmonary artery pressures were measured with right-sided cardiac catheterization. The magnitude of LA a and v. waves were measured through transseptal catheterization. Two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography were also performed to measure LA size, mitral valve area, mean mitral gradient, and valvular regurgitation. Multiple regression analysis was performed to identify the most important factor in the determination of pulmonary artery pressure. A large v wave, defined if peak v wave height exceeded the mean LA pressure by > or =10 mm Hg, was observed in 43 of 113 patients (38%). Increased pulmonary artery systolic pressure (> or =50 mm Hg) was observed in 38 patients (34%). Univariate analysis showed that the factors associated with increased pulmonary artery systolic pressure were smaller mitral valve area, higher mean mitral gradient, higher mean LA pressure, and higher LA v. wave; among them, LA v wave (p <0. 001) and mean mitral gradient (p<0.001) were significant independent factors for pulmonary artery systolic pressure in multivariate analysis. In conclusion, in patients with pure MS and sinus rhythm, the magnitude of the LA v. wave is strongly associated with pulmonary artery pressure. This finding may suggest that LA compliance is a major contributing factor determining pulmonary artery pressure in pure MS.

A dendritic cell line genetically modified to express CTLA4-IG as a means to prolong islet allograft survival

BACKGROUND

Dendritic cells are potent antigen-presenting cells that bind allogeneic T cells. They are thus candidates for targeting immunoregulatory molecules to the alloreactive T cell compartment and suppressing the alloimmune response.

METHOD

A dendritic cell line derived from the BALB/c mouse (H2d) was genetically modified to express the immunoregulatory molecule CTLA4-Ig. The ability of these dendritic cell transfectants to downregulate the alloimmune response was tested in an islet transplant model. Allogeneic C57Bl/6 (H2b) mice were rendered diabetic with streptozocin, and they received BALB/c islet (H2d) transplants. Mice were administered 25 million untransfected or CTLA4-Ig-transfected D2SC/1 cells i.v. on the day of islet transplantation and 6 days later[fnc].

RESULT

Mice treated with CTLA4-Ig-transfected D2SC/1 cells demonstrated prolonged allograft survival (mean = 20 days, median = 17 days, SD = 9.39) compared with mice treated with untransfected D2SC/1 cells (mean = 12 days, median = 11 days, SD=2.74) or untreated control mice (mean = 11 days, median = 11 days SD = 1.41). Third party allograft survival was not prolonged in mice receiving similar treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate that a genetically modified dendritic cell line can suppress the alloimmune response and prolong islet allograft survival in an allospecific manner. The findings also suggest that genetically modified dendritic cells may be useful in targeting alloreactive T cells and prolonging allograft survival.

Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and thrombospondin-1 in colorectal carcinoma

Solid tumors require neovascularization for growth and metastasis. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a well-characterized inducer of angiogenesis, while, thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) is thought to be an antiangiogenic factor. In this study, we examined the expressions of these antigens and their relationship with microvessel density, and determined their prognostic significance. One hundred specimens resected from patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma were examined using immunohistochemical methods. Microvessel density, determined by immunostaining for factor VIII-related antigen, was significantly higher in tumors that were VEGF-positive and TSP-1-negative than in other tumors. Patients with VEGF-positive tumors had a significantly worse prognosis than did those with VEGF-negative tumors, and TSP-1 expression was inversely correlated with prognosis. The frequency of hepatic recurrence was significantly higher in patients with tumors that were VEGF-positive and TSP-1-negative than in all other patients. In conclusion, VEGF and TSP-1 are important regulators of tumor angiogenesis, and combined analysis of VEGF and TSP-1 may be useful for predicting recurrence in patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma.