Number of negative lymph nodes with a positive impact on survival of stage III colon cancer; a retrospective observation study for right side and left side colon

Background

The purpose was to examine the effect of negative lymph nodes (NLN) number on survival in stage III colon cancer. To reduce the interference of acute inflammation, we included patients with stage III colon cancer who had undergone elective surgery and excluded those who had tumor perforation, obstruction, ischemia, or massive tumor bleeding.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 2244 patients with stage III colon cancer between 1995 and 2016 at a single center. The effect of NLN on 5-year relapse-free survival (RFS), 5-year overall survival (OS), and comparison of multivariate factors was assessed according to tumor locations.

Results

The two optimal cutoff values of NLN for proximal and distal colon, namely 27 and 12, were determined by plotting the time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve. Overall, 499 of 891 and 1020 of 1353 patients with right-side and left-side colon cancer, respectively, had high NLN. In right-side colon cancer, patients with high NLN (≥ 27) had superior OS (74.9% vs. 62.7%, P <  0.001) and RFS (75.0% vs. 61.9%, P <  0.001) than did those with low NLN. Moreover, in left-side colon cancer, patients with high NLN (≥12) experienced significantly superior OS (80.8% vs. 68.6%, P <  0.001) and RFS (77.3% vs. 66.2%, P <  0.001) than did those with low NLN. Among the different subgroups of stage III colon cancer, the high NLN group showed significantly superior RFS and OS in stage IIIB (RFS: 77.0% vs. 68.0%, P = 0.001; OS: 78.6% vs. 67.9%, P <  0.001) and IIIC (RFS: 58.2% vs. 44.1%, P = 0.001; OS: 65.7% vs. 51.1%, P <  0.001) colon cancer. However, in stage IIIA colon cancer, high NLN only showed survival benefit in OS (91.5% vs. 89.8%, P = 0.041). Multivariate analyses confirmed that high NLN, high carcinoembryonic antigen (≥ 5 ng/mL) level, and stage IIIC status are three independent prognostic factors in both the proximal and distal colon.

Conclusions

NLN is a crucial prognostic factor for stage III colon cancer in various tumor locations or in the subgroups of stage III disease. In advanced stage III colon cancer, the importance of NLN and its role in anti-cancer immune response could be highlighted.

Long-Term Trends and Predictors of Medical Resource Utilization and Medical Outcomes in Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Nationwide Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Few studies have comprehensively and systematically analyzed nationwide samples. This study purposed to explore temporal trends and predictors of medical resource utilization and medical outcomes in these patients to obtain data that can be used to improve healthcare policies and to support clinical and administrative decision-making.

METHODS

This study used nationwide population data contained in the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database of Taiwan. The 14,970 inguinal hernia repair patients were enrolled in this study (age range, 18-100 years) from 1997 to 2013 in Taiwan. After temporal trends analysis of demographic characteristics, clinical characteristics, and institutional characteristics, predictors of postoperative medical resource utilization and medical outcomes were evaluated through multiple linear regression analysis and Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

The prevalence of inguinal hernia repair per 100,000 population significantly decreased from 195.38 in 1997 to 39.66 in 2013 (p < 0.05). Demographic characteristics, clinical characteristics, and institutional characteristics were significantly associated with postoperative medical resource utilization and medical outcomes (p < 0.05). Of these characteristics, both surgeon volume and hospital volume had the strongest association.

CONCLUSIONS

The inguinal hernia repair prevalence rate gradually decreased during the study period. Demographic characteristics, clinical characteristics, and institutional characteristics had strong associations with postoperative medical resource utilization and medical outcomes. Furthermore, hospital volume and surgeon volume had the strongest associations with postoperative medical resource utilization and medical outcomes. Additionally, providing the education needed to make the most advantageous medical decisions would be a great service not only to patients and their families, but also to the general population.

Intracavernous Injection of Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma Ameliorates Hyperlipidemia-Associated Erectile Dysfunction in a Rat Model

Introduction

Hyperlipidemia is associated with an increased risk of erectile dysfunction (ED) mediated by endothelial damage. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) contains numerous angiogenic growth factors. Currently, evidence supporting the use of PRP for ED treatment is limited.

Aim

We investigated PRP in a rat model of hyperlipidemia-associated ED.

Methods

Thirty 2-month-old male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into 3 groups. 20 rats were fed a high-fat diet for 5 months and were randomly divided into 2 groups: (i) rats in the H group received supernatant injection into the corpus cavernosum weekly for 4 weeks; (ii) rats in the H + PRP group received PRP injection into the corpus cavernosum weekly for 4 weeks. 10 rats were fed a standard diet for 5 months and received supernatant injection into the corpus cavernosum weekly for 4 weeks (N group). 7 days after the 4th injection, all rats underwent erectile function testing and then euthanasia.

Main outcome measures

Erectile function was evaluated by measuring intracavernous pressure (ICP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP). Serum and penile tissue were collected for metabolic variable assessment and histochemical examination, respectively.

Results

Intracavernous pressure/MAP and area under the curve/MAP ratios were significantly higher in the N and H + PRP groups than in the H group. Insulin-like growth factor-1, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor levels were significantly higher in the H + PRP group than in the N and H groups. Corporal neuronal nitric oxide synthase, endothelial nitric oxide synthase, and endothelial cells were weakly expressed in the H group compared with the N and H + PRP groups. Intracorporal oxidative stress and apoptotic index were significantly higher in the H group than in the N and H + PRP groups.

Conclusions

This preclinical evidence suggests that clinical trials of PRP in men with ED should be considered. PRP may play a role in ED management.

Huang YC, Wu CT, Chen MF, et al. Intracavernous Injection of Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma Ameliorates Hyperlipidemia-Associated Erectile Dysfunction in a Rat Model. Sex Med 2021;9:100317.

P1569The Impact of Multidisciplinary Cardio-Oncology Program on the Cardiovascular Outcomes in Breast Cancer Patients

Background

Chemo- and target therapies may induce myocardial dysfunction and lead to poor prognoses. Early detection of minor myocardial dysfunction is important for the prevention of subsequent cardiotoxicity. Cardio-oncology is a multidisciplinary field focusing on managing and preventing cardiovascular complications in cancer patients. However, whether Cardio-oncology program truly makes difference in cardiovascular outcomes remains unknown. Herein, we are sharing our experiences in our Medical Center.

Methods

Since 2014 till 2017, we recruited 154 patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer preparing for Epirubicin therapy. Echocardiography, biomarkers, six minute walking distance and cardiovascular adverse events including new onset of hypertension, stroke, myocardial infarction (MI) and mortality were recorded at baseline, three months, six months and one year. Any functional decline was reported to oncologists for the consideration of changing regimens. Otherwise, cardiologists would be consulted for cardiovascular educations and therapies. The echocardiographic and clinical records of 450 breast patients receiving Epirubicin therapy during 2010 to 2013 were also collected as comparison.

Results

Compared with the ratio of 20% patients receiving echocardiography prior to 2014, the ratio increased to 100% since Cardio-Oncology program started. Also, the drop of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) from 25% attenuated to 5%. Before Cardio-Oncology Program, there were 1.7% of new onset hypertension, 0.8% of MI, 0.8% of stroke and 16.8% of mortality. Conversely, after the program, there were only 0.6% of new onset hypertension while no other cardiovascular complications were reported. Furthermore, compared with previous reports of the effectiveness of Cardio-Oncology Program, our result also displayed a superior impact on the cardiovascular outcomes.

Conclusions

Collectively, through a comprehensive monitoring and an early intervention of myocardial dysfunction post chemotherapies, Cardio-Oncology Program truly decreased the cardiovascular complications in breast cancer patients.

Acknowledgement/Funding

Chi-Mei Medical Center

Monthly tegafur-uracil maintenance for increasing relapse-free survival in ypStage III rectal cancer patients after preoperative radiotherapy, radical resection, and 12 postoperative chemotherapy cycles: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Current advancements in neoadjuvant therapy and total mesorectal excision have engendered increased local control. However, the survival benefit of preoperative radiotherapy (RT; 5 × 5 Gy) in rectal cancer patients remains inadequate, primarily because of systemic recurrence. In this retrospective single-center study, the effects of monthly tegafur-uracil maintenance (≥6 cycles) after 12 fluorouracil-based adjuvant chemotherapy cycles on 3-year relapse-free survival (RFS) was estimated in ypStage III rectal cancer patients.

METHODS

Of ypStage III rectal cancer patients who received preoperative RT (5 × 5 Gy) in January 2006-December 2015, those who had ypStage III cancer after preoperative radiation, radical resection, and postoperative chemotherapy were enrolled; excluded patients had ypStage I and II rectal cancer, had double cancer, had synchronous distant metastasis, had local excision, received preoperative chemoradiation, and were lost to follow-up within 1 year after cancer treatment. Included patients received either maintenance therapy or observation after postoperative chemotherapy. The primary endpoint was the effect of maintenance therapy on 3-year RFS. We set the median follow-up duration to be 69.7 (range, 15.4-148.3) months.

RESULTS

Of 259 ypStage III rectal cancer patients, 102 (59 men and 43 women) were enrolled based on the inclusion criteria. The maintenance and observation groups comprised 55 and 57 patients, respectively (mean age = 62.2 and 65.7 years, respectively; p = 0.185). The 3-year RFS observed in the maintenance group (85.1%) was longer than that observed in the observation group (67.5%; p = 0.039). Multivariate analysis proved the following to be independent prognostic factors for RFS: higher metastatic lymph node ratio (LNR ≥0.3), tegafur-uracil maintenance (≥6 cycles), and lower rectal cancer (< 6 cm from the anal verge). The higher the rectal cancer location (≥6 cm from the anal verge) was, the higher the tegafur-uracil maintenance survival benefit became (p = 0.041). Moreover, lower cancer location (< 6 cm from the anal verge) and LNR ≥0.3 were both associated with a trend of longer RFS after tegafur-uracil maintenance therapy (p = 0.164 and 0.113, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

After the execution of fluorouracil-based adjuvant chemotherapy, administering monthly tegafur-uracil (≥6 cycles) may improve the 3-year RFS of ypStage III rectal cancer patients.

Expression of PRDX6 Correlates with Migration and Invasiveness of Colorectal Cancer Cells

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common type of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. PRDXs are antioxidant enzymes that play an important role in cell differentiation, proliferation and apoptosis and have diverse functions in malignancy development. However, the mechanism of aberrant overexpression of PRDX6 in CRC remains unclear.

METHODS

Boyden chamber assay, flow cytometry and a lentiviral shRNA targeting PRDX6 and transient transfection with pCMV-6-PRDX6 plasmid were used to examine the role of PRDX6 in the proliferation capacity and invasiveness of CRC cells. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) with tissue array containing 40 paraffin- embedded CRC tissue specimens and Western blot assays were used to detect target proteins.

RESULTS

PRDX6 was significantly up-expressed in different comparisons of metastasis of colorectal adenomas in node-positive CRC (P = 0.03). In in vitro HCT-116, PRDX6 silencing markedly suppressed CRC cell migration and invasiveness while also inducing cell cycle arrest as well as the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS); specific overexpression of PRDX6 had the opposite effect. Mechanistically, the PRDX6 inactivation displayed decreased levels of PRDX6, N-cadherin, β-catenin, Vimentin, Slug, Snail and Twist-1 through the activation of the PI3K/ AKT/p38/p50 pathways, but they were also significantly inhibited by PRDX6 transfectants. There was also increased transcriptional activation of dimethylation of histone H3 lysine 4 (H3K4me3) of PRDX6 promoter via the activation of the PI3K/Akt/NFkB pathways.

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrated that PRDX6 expression plays a characteristic growth-promoting role in CRC metastasis. This study suggests that PRDX6 may serve as a biomarker of node-positive status and may have a role as an important endogenous regulator of cancer cell tumorigenicity in CRC. PRDX6 may also be an effective therapeutic target.

Prognostic significance of unintentional body weight loss in colon cancer patients

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether unintentional body weight loss (BWL) provides additional clinical information in terms of tumor progression and prognosis in non-metastatic colon cancer. In the present study, a total of 2,406 consecutive colon cancer patients without metastasis were retrospectively enrolled. Unintentional BWL was defined as loss of >5% of body weight within the last 6–12 months, or defined subjectively upon fulfillment of at least two of the following: Evidence of change in clothing size and corroboration of the reported weight loss by family or friend. This category was recorded as present (‘with’) or absent (‘without’). Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the correlation between BWL and the tumor characteristics and post-operative outcomes of patients with colon cancer. The Cox regression model was used to determine the association of BWL with long-term survival of colon cancer patients. A significant association between BWL and tumor location [right vs. left: Odds ratio (OR)=1.62; P<0.001], tumor size (≥5 vs. <5 cm: OR=2.17; P<0.001), and tumor stage based on the tumor-nodes-metastasis system (T3-T4 vs. T1-T2: OR=2.02; P<0.001). Post-operative morbidity and mortality were not significantly influenced by BWL. Multivariate analysis revealed that BWL was significantly associated with overall survival [with vs. without BWL: Hazard ratio (HR)=1.178; P=0.036] and relapse-free survival (with vs. without BWL: HR=1.332; P=0.003). In conclusion, BWL in patients with colon cancer is not just a symptom, but it is also correlated with tumor location, size and depth, and is a prognostic factor for poor outcomes including overall survival and tumor relapse.

CIL-102-Induced Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis in Colorectal Cancer Cells via Upregulation of p21 and GADD45

CIL-102 (1-[4-(furo[2,3-b]quinolin-4-ylamino)phenyl]ethanone) is a well-known, major active agent of the alkaloid derivative of Camptotheca acuminata with valuable biological properties, including anti-tumorigenic activity. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanisms by which CIL-102 mediated the induction of cell death, and we performed cell cycle G2/M arrest to clarify molecular changes in colorectal cancer cells (CRC). Treatment of DLD-1 cells with CIL-102 resulted in triggering the extrinsic apoptosis pathway through the activation of Fas-L, caspase-8 and the induction of Bid cleavage and cytochrome c release in a time-dependent manner. In addition, CIL-102 mediated apoptosis and G2/M arrest by phosphorylation of the Jun N-terminus kinase (JNK1/2) signaling pathway. This resulted in the expression of NFκB p50, p300 and CREB-binding protein (CBP) levels, and in the induction of p21 and GADD45 as well as the decreased association of cdc2/cyclin B. Furthermore, treatment with the JNK1/2 (SP600125), NFκB (PDTI) or the p300/CBP (C646) inhibitors abolished CIL-102-induced cell cycle G2/M arrest and reversed the association of cdc2 with cyclin B. Therefore, we demonstrated that there was an increase in the cellular levels of p21 and GADD45 by CIL-102 reduction in cell viability and cell cycle arrest via the activation of the JNK1/2, NFκB p50, p300 and CBP signaling modules. Collectively, our results demonstrated that CIL-102 induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of colon cancer cells by upregulating p21 and GADD45 expression and by activating JNK1/2, NFκB p50 and p300 to provide a new mechanism for CIL-102 treatment.

A proteomics approach to identifying novel protein targets involved in erinacine A-mediated inhibition of colorectal cancer cells' aggressiveness

Erinacine A, a major active component of a diterpenoid derivative isolated from Hericium erinaceus mycelium, has been demonstrated to exert anticancer effects. Herein, we present an investigation of the molecular mechanism of erinacine A induction associated with cancer cells’ aggressive status and death. A proteomic approach was used to purify and identify the differentially expressed proteins following erinacine A treatment and the mechanism of its action in apoptotic and the targets of erinacine A. Our results demonstrate that erinacine A treatment of HCT‐116 and DLD‐1 cells increased cell cytotoxicity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production as well as decreased cell proliferation and invasiveness. Ten differentially displayed proteins were determined and validated in vitro and in vivo between the erinacine A‐treated and untreated groups. In addition, erinacine A time‐dependent induction of cell death and inhibitory invasiveness was associated with sustained phosphorylation of the PI3K/mTOR/p70S6K and ROCK1/LIMK2/Cofilin pathways. Furthermore, we demonstrated that erinacine A–induced HCT‐116 and DLD‐1 cells viability and anti‐invasion properties by up‐regulating the activation of PI3K/mTOR/p70S6K and production of ROS. Experiments involving specific inhibitors demonstrated that the differential expression of cofilin‐1 (COFL1) and profilin‐1 (PROF1) during erinacine A treatment could be involved in the mechanisms of HCT‐116 and DLD‐1 cells death and decreased aggressiveness, which occurred via ROCK1/LIMK2/Cofilin expression, with activation of the PI3K/mTOR/p70S6K signalling pathway. These findings elucidate the mechanism of erinacine A inhibiting the aggressive status of cells by activating PI3K/mTOR/p70S6K downstream signalling and the novel protein targets COF1 and PROF1; this could be a good molecular strategy to limit the aggressiveness of CRC cells.

The Effects of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells in a Rat Model of Tobacco-Associated Erectile Dysfunction

Tobacco use is associated with erectile dysfunction (ED) via a number of mechanisms including vascular injury and oxidative stress in corporal tissue. Adipose derived stem cells (ADSC) have been shown to ameliorate vascular/corporal injury and oxidative stress by releasing cytokines, growth factors and antioxidants. We assessed the therapeutic effects of intracavernous injection of ADSC in a rat model of tobacco-associated ED. Thirty male rats were used in this study. Ten rats exposed to room air only served as negative controls. The remaining 20 rats were passively exposed to cigarette smoke (CS) for 12 weeks. At the 12-week time point, ADSC were isolated from paragonadal fat in all rats. Amongst the 20 CS exposed rats, 10 each were assigned to one of the two following conditions: (i) injection of phosphate buffered saline (PBS) into the corpora cavernosa (CS+PBS); or (ii) injection of autologous ADSC in PBS into the corpora cavernosa (CS+ADSC). Negative control animals received PBS injection into the corpora cavernosa (normal rats [NR] + PBS). After injections all rats were returned to their previous air versus CS exposure state. Twenty-eight days after injection, all rats were placed in a metabolic cage for 24-hour urine collection to be testing for markers of oxidative stress. After 24-hour urine collection all 30 rats also underwent erectile function testing via intracavernous pressure (ICP) testing and were then sacrificed. Corporal tissues were obtained for histological assessment and Western blotting. Mean body weight was significantly lower in CS-exposed rats than in control animals. Mean ICP, ICP /mean arterial pressure ratio, serum nitric oxide level were significantly lower in the CS+PBS group compared to the NR+PBS and CS+ADSC groups. Urine markers for oxidative stress were significantly higher in the CS+PBS group compared to the NR+PBS and CS+ADSC groups. Mean expression of corporal nNOS and histological markers for endothelial and smooth muscle cells was significantly lower, and tissue apoptotic index significantly higher, in the CS+PBS group compared to the NR+PBS and CS+ADSC groups. Our findings confirm that chronic tobacco exposure causes ultrastructural damage to the corporal tissue and increases systemic oxidative stress states. Treatment with ADSC ameliorates these adverse effects and holds promise as a potential therapy for tobacco-related ED.

Selective β2-AR Blockage Suppresses Colorectal Cancer Growth Through Regulation of EGFR-Akt/ERK1/2 Signaling, G1-Phase Arrest, and Apoptosis

The stress-upregulated catecholamines-activated β1- and β2-adrenergic receptors (β1/2-ARs) have been shown to accelerate the progression of cancers such as colorectal cancer (CRC). We investigated the underlying mechanism of the inhibition of β1/2-ARs signaling for the treatment of CRC and elucidated the significance of β2-AR expression in CRC in vitro and in clinical samples. The impacts of β1/2-AR antagonists in CRC in vitro and CRC-xenograft in vivo were examined. We found that repression of β2-AR but not β1-AR signaling selectively suppressed cell viability, induced G1-phase cell cycle arrest, caused both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways-mediated apoptosis of specific CRC cells and inhibited CRC-xenograft growth in vivo. Moreover, the expression of β2-AR was not consistent with the progression of CRC in vitro or in clinical samples. Our data evidence that the expression profiles, signaling, and blockage of β2-AR have a unique pattern in CRC comparing to other cancers. β2-AR antagonism selectively suppresses the growth of CRC accompanying active β2-AR signaling, which potentially carries wild-type KRAS, in vitro and in vivo via the inhibition of β2-AR transactivated EFGR-Akt/ERK1/2 signaling pathway. Thus, β2-AR blockage might be a potential therapeutic strategy for combating the progressions of β2-AR-dependent CRC.

Interleukin-17 induces CC chemokine receptor 6 expression and cell migration in colorectal cancer cells

The CC chemokine receptor 6 (CCR6) and its ligand CCL20 are involved in human colorectal cancer (CRC) carcinogenesis and can promote the progression of CRC. In addition, interleukin-17 (IL-17), produced by a T cell subset named "Th17," has been identified as an important player in inflammatory responses, and has emerged as a mediator in inflammation-associated cancer. However, the relevance of IL-17 in the development and progression of CRC still remains to be explored. This study aimed to investigate the effect of IL-17 on the cell migration of CRC cells. Human CRC HCT-116 cells were used to study the effect of IL-17 on CCR6 expression and cell migration in CRC cells. IL-17 treatment induced migration of HCT-116 cells across the Boyden chamber membrane and increased the expression level of the CCR6. Inhibition of CCR6 by small interfering RNA (siRNA) and neutralizing antibody inhibited IL-17-induced cell migration. By using specific inhibitors and short hairpin RNA (shRNA), we demonstrated that the activation of ERK and p38 pathways are critical for IL-17-induced CCR6 expression and cell migration. Promoter activity and transcription factor ELISA assays showed that IL-17 increased NF-κB-DNA binding activity in HCT-116 cells. Inhibition of NF-κB activation by specific inhibitors and siRNA blocked the IL-17-induced CCR6 expression. Our findings support the hypothesis that CCR6 up-regulation stimulated by IL-17 may play an active role in CRC cell migration.

Resistin-induced stromal cell-derived factor-1 expression through Toll-like receptor 4 and activation of p38 MAPK/ NFκB signaling pathway in gastric cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) (CXC chemokine ligand-12)/CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) is involved in the carcinogenesis of human gastric cancer, where it stimulates angiogenesis and favors metastasis of tumor cells to distant organs. In addition, resistin is suggested to be an important link between obesity and the development of gastric cancer. Resistin has identified as an important player in inflammatory responses, and emerged as a mediator in inflammation-associated cancer. A limited number of studies have investigated the association of resistin and SDF-1 with gastric cancer. Herein, we investigated the molecular mechanisms by which resistin influences the expression of SDF-1 in gastric carcinoma cells.

RESULTS

Human gastric cancer cell lines were exposed to doses of resistin; SDF-1 expression and secretion levels were then determined. Real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting analyses were performed to clarify molecular changes. Inhibition of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) by a competitive antagonist inhibited resistin-induced SDF-1 expression. Pharmacological inhibitors and small interfering RNA (siRNA) demonstrated that activation of the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is critical for resistin-induced SDF-1 expression mediated by TLR4. The promoter activity and transcription factor enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay revealed that resistin induced expression of SDF-1 mediated by NF-κB in gastric cancer cells. Inhibition of p38 MARK activation blocked the SDF-1-induced expression and the SDF-1 promoter activity in the cancer gastric cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay revealed that inhibition of p38 MARK activation also blocked the resistin-increased NF-κB-DNA-binding activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Resistin-induced SDF-1 upregulation by activation of TLR4, p38 MARK and NF-κB may explain a new role of resistin in the link of obesity and gastric cancer.

Does body mass index impact the number of LNs harvested and influence long-term survival rate in patients with stage III colon cancer?

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to evaluate whether different body mass index (BMI) values affect lymph node (LN) retrieval and whether such variations influence long-term survival in Asian patients.

METHOD

From January 1995 to July 2003, 645 stage III colon cancer patients were enrolled in our study. Patients were stratified into four groups: Obese (BMI ≧ 27 kg/m(2)), overweight (24 ≤ BMI < 27 kg/m(2)), normal (18.5 ≤ BMI < 24 kg/m(2)), and underweight (BMI < 18.5 kg/m(2)).

RESULTS

Mean BMI in the cohort was 23.3 kg/m(2). Mean number of LNs harvested was 23.1, 19.5, 19.8 and 28.1 in the normal, overweight, obese and underweight groups, respectively. There was a significant difference in the mean number of LNs harvested when comparing the overweight and underweight groups to the normal group (p = 0.013 and p = 0.04, respectively). Females were overrepresented in the underweight group (p = 0.011), and patients who had proximal colon cancers were more frequently underweight (p = 0.018). The mean number of LNs harvested varied by cases of right hemicolectomy (p = 0.009) and proximal cancer location (p = 0.009) for different BMI groups. Multivariate analysis showed that underweight, proximal colon cancer, well- or moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma and stage IIIC cancer were significant variables for adequate LN recovery. BMI was not significantly associated with relapse-free survival (p = 0.523) or overall survival (p = 0.127).

CONCLUSION

BMI is associated with LN harvest but is not an independent variable in stage III colon cancer survival.

Role of body mass index in colon cancer patients in Taiwan

AIM: To determine the effect of body mass index (BMI) on the characteristics and overall outcome of colon cancer in Taiwan.

METHODS: From January 1995 to July 2003, 2138 patients with colon cancer were enrolled in this study. BMI categories (in kg/m²) were established according to the classification of the Department of Health of Taiwan. Postoperative morbidities and mortality, and survival analysis including overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were compared across the BMI categories.

RESULTS: There were 164 (7.7%) underweight (BMI < 18.5 kg/m²), 1109 (51.9%) normal-weight (BMI = 18.5-23.9 kg/m²), 550 (25.7%) overweight (BMI = 24.0-26.9 kg/m²), and 315 (14.7%) obese (BMI ≥ 27 kg/m²) patients. Being female, apparently anemic, hypoalbuminemic, and having body weight loss was more likely among underweight patients than among the other patients (P < 0.001). Underweight patients had higher mortality rate (P = 0.007) and lower OS (P < 0.001) and DFS (P = 0.002) than the other patients. OS and DFS did not differ significantly between normal-weight, overweight, and obese patients, while CSS did not differ significantly with the BMI category.

CONCLUSION: In Taiwan, BMI does not significantly affect colon-CSS. Underweight patients had a higher rate of surgical mortality and a worse OS and DFS than the other patients. Obesity does not predict a worse survival.

Metastasis at the colostomy site: a rare case report

Metastasis at the colostomy site is rare. Most reported patients with such metastases undergo abdominoperineal resection and this kind of metastases happened after a longer period post-cancer surgery. In our patient, because it happened during a short interval between rectal cancer surgery and stoma closure, colostomy site metastasis probably occurred owing to ablative cancer cell reflux and seeding from the obstruction during decompressive colostomy rather than local, lymphatic or haematogenous spread. Meticulous histologic analyses to rule out undetected, concomitant polyps and metachronous cancer are very important for patients with obstructive colorectal cancer who undergo decompressive colostomy. The potential risk of colostomy site metastasis during staged surgery for obstructive colorectal cancer remains uncertain; however, the result from this case report raises the question of such a risk for further studies in a greater number of patients.

Stromal cell-derived factor-1/CXC receptor 4 and β1 integrin interaction regulates urokinase-type plasminogen activator expression in human colorectal cancer cells

The stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1)/CXC receptor 4 (CXCR4) axis has been shown to play a role in colorectal cancer progression. In addition, the protease urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) is an important factor in tumor cell invasion and metastasis. However, the mechanism by which SDF-1 mediates uPA expression in human colorectal cancer cells remains unknown. We investigated the molecular mechanism governing the interaction between SDF-1 stimulation and uPA expression in three human colon cancer cell lines (DLD-1, SW48, and COLO 205). We found that SDF-1 stimulation led to an increase in the expression and secretion of uPA in these cells. Experiments involving specific inhibitors and small interfering RNA demonstrated that the activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathways are critical for SDF-1-induced uPA expression. Analysis of transcription factor binding using ELISA and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed that SDF-1 increased Sp1- and AP-1-DNA-binding activities in DLD-1 cells. Inhibition of Sp1 and AP-1 activation blocked the SDF-1-induced expression and activity of the uPA promoter. The effect of SDF-1 on DLD-1 signaling and uPA expression was mediated by the CXCR4/β1 integrin axis. In summary, our findings elucidate the mechanisms of SDF-1/CXCR4 downstream signaling and provide insights into the function of SDF-1 in colon cancer cells.

Massive lower gastrointestinal bleeding from an external iliac artery fistula in a patient with bladder cancer

Arterioenteric fistula is a rare cause of lower gastrointestinal bleeding, yet it can potentially cause massive, life-threatening bleeding. Patients with an advanced pelvic malignancy can develop hemorrhage from an arterioenteric fistula. Selective mesenteric angiography is unable to demonstrate the source of bleeding in these patients, so evaluation of the iliac arteries is essential. We present a 67-year-old man with advanced bladder cancer presenting as massive, life-threatening lower gastrointestinal bleeding from an external iliac arterial fistula to the cecum.

A parallel fuzzy inference model with distributed prediction scheme for reinforcement learning

This paper proposes a three-layered parallel fuzzy inference model called reinforcement fuzzy neural network with distributed prediction scheme (RFNN-DPS), which performs reinforcement learning with a novel distributed prediction scheme. In RFNN-DPS, an additional predictor for predicting the external reinforcement signal is not necessary, and the internal reinforcement information is distributed into fuzzy rules (rule nodes). Therefore, using RFNN-DPS, only one network is needed to construct a fuzzy logic system with the abilities of parallel inference and reinforcement learning. Basically, the information for prediction in RFNN-DPS is composed of credit values stored in fuzzy rule nodes, where each node holds a credit vector to represent the reliability of the corresponding fuzzy rule. The credit values are not only accessed for predicting external reinforcement signals, but also provide a more profitable internal reinforcement signal to each fuzzy rule itself. RFNN-DPS performs a credit-based exploratory algorithm to adjust its internal status according to the internal reinforcement signal. During learning, the RFNN-DPS network is constructed by a single-step or multistep reinforcement learning algorithm based on the ART concept. According to our experimental results, RFNN-DPS shows the advantages of simple network structure, fast learning speed, and explicit representation of rule reliability.

Isocupressic acid blocks progesterone production from bovine luteal cells

The needles of ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa Laws.) were reported to induce abortions when fed to late-term pregnant beef cows in North America. An in vivo study of pregnant cows suggested that isocupressic acid (IA) was the main abortifacient isolated from needles and bark of the pine. However, the mechanism of abortifacient activity of IA is not clear yet. In a pregnant cow, the corpus luteum of the ovary helps the maintenance of pregnancy by its progesterone production. This study involved the IA extracted from the root of the Taiwan cypress (Juniperus formosana) and used a frozen-thawed bovine luteal cell culture system to investigate the action of IA on progesterone production. Thawed bovine luteal cells (1 x 10(5) cells/ml/well) in M199 medium were cultured in 24-well culture plates at 37 degrees C in a 5% CO2 incubator. Ten ml of tested drugs, IA at 1 to 1000 ng/ml and/or ovine luteinizing hormone (oLH) at 1 to 100 ng/microl or 8-bromo-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (8-Br-cAMP) with 0.1-10 mM, were added into each well. After 4 hours of incubation, the media were harvested and assayed for progesterone by an enzyme immunoassay. Progesterone production from cells was the indicator used to evaluate the action of IA. All tested doses of IA significantly inhibited progesterone production in both basal and oLH stimulating conditions. Also those dosages inhibited cyclic adenosine-3',5'- monophosphate (cAMP) stimulation, suggesting a post-cAMP mechanism is involved in the IA action. We concluded that IA can induce pregnant cows to abort partly through blocking luteal function and may be identified as a new abortifacient chemical.

Effects of single nucleotide polymorphisms in the 5'-flanking region of heat shock protein 70.2 gene on semen quality in boars

This study aims to elucidate the effects of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the 5'-flanking region of porcine heat shock protein 70.2 gene (HSP70.2) on semen quality in boars. Genomic DNA isolated from 55 boars (41 Duroc, nine Landrace, and five Yorkshire) was subjected to PCR amplification of the 5'-flanking region of HSP70.2. The nucleotide sequences were determined by automated sequencing. Five SNPs (sites 44, 232, 250, 345, and 393) were detected in this region. Semen quality was evaluated in terms of sperm motility, percentage of normal sperm, percentage of sperm with proximal plasma droplet, percentage of abnormal sperm, sperm concentration, semen volume per ejaculate and total sperm number per ejaculate. The effect of the SNPs on semen quality was evaluated based on breed-corrected data within a season. During the cool season, the sperm motility of boars with AA genotype at the 232 site was significantly higher than that of boars with CC genotype (P<0.05). Meanwhile, boars with AC genotype at the 232 site had higher total sperm number per ejaculate than did those with CC genotype. In the hot season, heterozygotes at both the 232 and 250 sites had significantly higher total sperm number of per ejaculate than AA homozygotes (P<0.05). Semen volume of boars with TT and TC genotypes at the 345 site was significantly larger than that of those with CC genotype (P<0.05). Meanwhile, semen quality for boars with TT genotype at the 345 site was significantly higher than that of boars with TC or CC genotype (P<0.05), that is the semen contained higher percentages of normal sperm and lower percentages of abnormal sperm or sperm with proximal plasma droplets. Results herein suggest that the SNPs in the 5'-flanking region of porcine HSP70.2 are associated with semen quality traits in the hot season.

Intravitreous tissue plasminogen activator injection and pneumatic displacement in the management of submacular hemorrhage complicating scleral buckling procedures

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rTPA) and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) in displacing submacular hemorrhage in patients who had scleral buckling procedures complicated by the development of submacular hemorrhage. Final visual acuity and complications of the procedures were evaluated.

METHODS

Sequential intravitreal injections of 50 microg rTPA in 0.1 mL and 0.4 cc SF6 were performed in eight patients who showed submacular hemorrhage 1 day after a scleral buckling procedure. The fundus was checked daily for 3 days after the injection of TPA and gas, and then was followed every week for 1 month and then every 2 months. Patients were observed for at least 6 months. Visual acuity and the status of complications were evaluated.

RESULTS

Submacular hemorrhage was totally or partially displaced extramacularly in all patients on the day after rTPA and SF6 injection. Vitreous hemorrhage was present in all patients. The retina was attached in all patients and no recurrent retinal detachment was noted. Visual acuity was improved at 6 months after treatment in all seven of the patients with macula-off retinal detachments compared to the preoperative visual acuity. The last patient who had a macula-sparing retinal detachment had decreased vision (20/25) at 6 months compared to preoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Recombinant tissue plasminogen activator and SF6 injection is an easy procedure that is less complicated than and as effective as internal drainage in patients with submacular hemorrhage developing as a complication of scleral buckling procedures.

Identification and quantification of natural isoxazolinone compounds by capillary zone electrophoresis

A capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) method that is specific, simple, rapid and also cheap was developed to analyse some natural UV-absorbing isoxazolinone compounds with toxic potential present in legume seedlings. The six most common natural isoxazolinone compounds were separated within 10 min with 25 mM potassium phosphate (pH 7.5) containing 8% 1-propanol as running buffer. A 60 cm coated fused-silica capillary (52.6 cm effective length x 75 microm I.D.), with an electric field of 375 V/cm at 30 degrees C was used. The limit of detection ranged from 0.01 mM (3.0 microg/ml) to 0.03 mM (7.7 microg/ml). Linearity between peak areas and concentrations ranging from 0.05 mM to 1.75 mM were determined for each isoxazolinone. The correlation coefficient was 0.9954 or greater. Both relative migration time and peak area were reproducible. The RSD of relative migration time is between 0.44 and 1.94% and RSD of peak area is between 1.26 and 6.86%. The concentrations of isoxazolinones in Lathyrus odoratus and L. sativus seedlings obtained by CZE were in agreement with the previous results from HPLC.

Depression among Alzheimer's caregivers: identifying risk factors

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to reveal risk factors contributing to the development of depression among caregivers of Alzheimer's disease patients.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional study, all caregivers of consecutive Alzheimer's disease patients were asked to participate in the study. Patient and caregiver depression was evaluated by using the Yesavage Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Information regarding patients' functional status, driving status, and type of behavioral abnormalities was obtained from caregivers. Patients' functional status was evaluated by using the Katz Activity of Daily Living (ADL) scale. The Folstein Mini-Mental Status Examination (MMSE) was used to evaluate cognition. Risk factors for Alzheimer's caregiver depression were assessed by means of logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 92 patients and caregivers were evaluated. Fifteen were excluded due to incomplete data. A total of 77 pairs were included in this analysis. The age of caregivers ranged from 28 to 88 years. Mean (standard deviation [SD]) age was 63.1 (SD = 16.3) years old. Husbands and wives (caregivers) accounted for 49.4 percent; daughters or sons (or daughters- or sons-in-law) accounted for 42.9 percent. There were 29 caregivers (38 percent) found to be depressed. By using multivariate analysis, the following factors have been identified as risk factors for depression in Alzheimer 's caregivers: depression in the dementia patient; ADL functional scores of 12 or greater; and the presence of hallucinations.

CONCLUSION

Three risk factors were found to have a strong association with Alzheimer's caregiver depression. Early recognition of such risk factors may help to identify Alzheimer's caregivers with depression.

Retinal vasculitis associated with chickenpox

PURPOSE

To report retinal vasculitis in a young, immunocompetent Asian female adult with chickenpox.

METHODS

Interventional case report. A 32-year-old woman had chickenpox 2 weeks before blurred vision in the left eye. The visual acuity was 20/20 for the right eye and 30/50 for the left eye. The left eye presented keratic precipitates, moderate (2+) cells in the anterior chamber and numerous cells (3+) in the vitreous. The disk was normal. Perivenous exudation was noted mainly in the inferior retina. The sheathed retinal vessels showed late staining but no remarkable leakage on fluorescein angiography. The right eye was normal.

RESULTS

After treatment with acyclovir for 10 days, the visual acuity in the left eye improved to 20/20, and the vasculitis resolved.

CONCLUSION

Retinal vasculitis may present as a complication of primary varicella infection in an immunocompetent adult.

Homocyclotirucallane and two dihydrophenanthrenes from Spiranthes sinensis

A novel homocyclotirucallane, sinetirucallol (1), and two additional new dihydrophenanthrenes, sinensols G (2) and H (3), were isolated from the aerial parts of Spiranthes sinensis (Pers.) Ames. Their structures were determined by various spectral analyses, including MS and two-dimentional nuclear magnetic resonance techniques. The structure of compound 1 was further confirmed by single-crystal X-ray analysis. The absolute configuration of 1 was determined by modified Mosher's method.

Amino acids in seeds and seedlings of the genus Lens

The amino acid content of seeds and 4-day-old seedlings were studied in five species of lentil: Lens culinaris, L. orientalis, L. ervoides, L. nigricans and L. odemensis. Free amino acid and also total protein amino acid content after HCl hydrolysis were determined by HPLC. The nonprotein UV-absorbing amino acids were determined by capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE). The content of free protein amino acids in seeds varied among species and increased dramatically after germination. Asparagine is quantitatively most important in both seed and seedling. The content of free nonprotein amino acids is variable in seeds and seedlings. gamma-Hydroxyarginine, gamma-hydroxyornithine, alpha-aminobutyric acid and taurine were found in both seeds and seedlings. Homoarginine was found in four species but not in L. orientalis while gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), alpha-aminoadipic acid (alpha-aaa) and three isoxazolinone derivatives: beta-(isoxazolin-5-on-2-yl)-alanine (BIA), gamma-glutamyl-BIA (gamma-glu-BIA) and 2-carboxymethyl-isoxazolin-5-one (CMI) were found exclusively in the seedlings. CMI was identified for the first time in lentil species. Lathyrine, beta-(2-amino-pyrimidine-4-yl)-alanine, which was reported to be in the seeds of some Lathyrus species was confirmed to be present also in the seedling of L. culinaris (trace amount), L. nigricans and L. odemensis. Trigonelline (N-methyl-nicotinic acid), a plant hormone, is present both in seeds and seedlings in different concentrations except in L. ervoides. The different combination of nonprotein amino acids among the species gives indication of their genetic relationship and might partly explain the varying compatibility for interspecies crossing.

Quinone-type podocarpanes from the bark of Taiwania cryptomerioides

Three quinone-type podocarpanes, 3beta-hydroxy-13-methoxy-8,12-podocarpadiene-11,14-dione (1), 18-hydroxy-13-methoxy-8,12-podocarpadiene-11,14-dione (2), and 13-methoxy-8,12-podocarpadiene-2,11,14-trione (3) were isolated from the bark of Taiwania cryptomerioides. Their structures were elucidated using spectral methods.

Taxane diterpenoids from the stem bark of Taxus mairei

Three new 11(15-->1)-abeo-taxanes, taxumairols U-W (1-3), have been isolated from extracts of the stem bark of Formosan Taxus mairei. The structures of 1-3 were identified as 5alpha,7beta,9alpha,13alpha,20-pentaacetoxy-2alpha,10beta,15-trihydroxy-11(15-->1)-abeo-taxene, 5alpha,7beta,9alpha,20-tetraacetoxy-2alpha,10beta,13alpha,15-tetrahydroxy-11(15-->1)-abeo-taxene, and 2alpha,4alpha,7beta,10beta-tetraacetoxy-5beta,20-epoxy-9alpha,13alpha,15-trihydroxy-11(15-->1)-abeo-taxene, respectively, on the basis of 2D NMR techniques including COSY, HSQC, HMBC, and NOESY experiments as well as chemical reactions of compounds 1-3 to give 4 (5alpha,7beta,9alpha,10beta,13alpha,20-hexaacetoxy-2alpha,15-dihydroxy-11(15-->1)-abeo-taxene) and 5 (4alpha,7beta,10beta-triacetoxy-9alpha,13alpha-dibenzoxy-5beta,20-epoxy-2alpha,15-dihydroxy-11(15-->1)-abeo-taxene), which are also novel taxane derivatives. Taxumairols U (1) and V (2) exhibited significant cytotoxicities against human hepatoma tumor cells, while taxumairol W (3) was inactive.

New sesquiterpene hydroquinones from a Taiwanese marine sponge, Hippospongia metachromia

In addition to metachromins A (1), B (2), and E (9), two new sesquiterpene hydroquinones, hippochromins A and B (3, 4), were isolated from the Taiwanese marine sponge Hippospongia metachromia. The structures of 4--6 were established by extensive 2D NMR analysis. Metachromins A (1) and B (2), hippochromin A diacetate (5), and metachromin B monoacetate (8) exhibited potent cytotoxicities against human colon (COLO-205) and nasopharyngeal (KB) tumor cells, while compounds 6, 7, and 9 were inactive.

Allelopathic prenylflavanones from the fallen leaves of Macaranga tanarius

Two new prenylflavanones, tanariflavanones A (1), and B (2), and one known compound, (-)-nymphaeol-C (3), were isolated from the fallen leaves of Macaranga tanarius. Compounds 1 and 2 showed inhibition of radical growth of lettuce seedlings at 200 ppm. Their structures were elucidated primarily by NMR, circular dichroism, and mass spectroscopic methods.

Progression of hydroxychloroquine retinopathy after discontinuation of therapy: case report

Chloroquine and its derivative, hydroxychloroquine sulfate, have been used in treating malaria, dermatitides of systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. Hydroxychloroquine retinopathy is uncommon in Taiwan. Here we report a patient with hydroxychloroquine retinopathy which progressed even after discontinuation of hydroxychloroquine. A 42-year-old woman had systemic lupus erythematosus for twenty years. She had been treated with 200 to 400 mg of hydroxychloroquine per day (4 to 8 mg/kg of body weight/day) with a cumulative dose of 657 g. After bull's-eye maculopathy was found, hydroxychloroquine was discontinued. Her medical history revealed no chloroquine administration and no other systemic disease. Five years after cessation of the therapy, her visual acuity and visual fields continued to deteriorate. Ophthalmoscopic examination revealed the hydroxychloroquine retinopathy had advanced. To the best of our knowledge, the progression of hydroxychloroquine retinopathy after discontinuation of medications is a rare phenomenon. Regular ophthalmologic examinations should be performed for patients on hydroxychloroquine regimens because there is no satisfactory treatment for hydroxychloroquine retinal toxicity. Ophthalmologists, dermatologists and rheumatologists should monitor for ocular toxicity of hydroxychloroquine carefully.

New cyclopropyl-triterpenoids from the aerial roots of Ficus microcarpa

Four new cyclopropyl-triterpenes, 27-nor-3beta-hydroxy-25-oxocycloartane (1), (22E)-25,26,27-trinor-3beta-hydroxycycloart-22-en-24-al (2), 3beta-acetoxy-15alpha-hydroxy-13,27-cyclours-11-ene (3), 3beta-acetoxy-12alpha-formyloxy-13,27-cycloursan-11alpha-ol (4), together with (23E)-27-nor-3beta-hydroxycycloart-23-en-25-one (5) were isolated from the aerial roots of Ficus microcarpa. Compounds 3 and 4 are rare 13,27-cycloursane-type triterpenes. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic and chemical methods.

New peroxy triterpenes from the aerial roots of Ficus microcarpa

Six new triterpenes, 3 beta-acetoxy-12 beta,13 beta-epoxy-11 alpha-hydroperoxyursane (1), 3 beta-acetoxy-11 alpha-hydroperoxy-13 alpha H-ursan-12-one (2), 3 beta-acetoxy-1 beta,11 alpha-epidioxy-12-ursene (3), (20S)-3 beta-acetoxylupan-29-oic acid (4), (20S)-3 beta-acetoxy-20-hydroperoxy-30-norlupane (5), and 3 beta-acetoxy-18 alpha-hydroperoxy-12-oleanen-11-one (6), together with 3 beta-acetoxy-12-oleanen-11-one (7), were isolated from the aerial roots of Ficus microcarpa. Compounds 1-3, 5, and 6 were characterized as new peroxytriterpenes. The structures of 3 and 6 were confirmed by X-ray crystallography, and their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic and chemical methods.

Bilateral diffuse uveal melanocytic proliferation in a woman with uterine leiomyoma: case report

Bilateral diffuse uveal melanocytic proliferation (BDUMP) associated with systemic carcinoma is a rare paraneoplastic syndrome. It was reported to be associated with primary carcinomas of the lung, ovary, colon, gall bladder, esophagus, pancreas, uterus, and cervix. We report a case of BDUMP that occurred in a woman with cervical leiomyoma. The 79-year-old woman experienced bilateral progressive visual loss to hand motion within 2 weeks. Fundus examination showed bilateral exudative retinal detachment and multiple oval red patches. Echographic study showed diffuse thickening of the uveal tracts. Fluorescein angiography showed multiple patches of window defect without late leakage, which was correlated with the oval red patches. After screening for tumor markers and meticulous examinations, an elevated serum level of CA-125 was noted. The only neoplasm found in this patient was a cervical leiomyoma, which has never been reported to be associated with BDUMP. One month after the onset of symptoms, accidental head injury due to poor vision led to right parietal intracerebral hemorrhage and left hemiplegia. Prompt diagnosis of this paraneoplastic syndrome is important to discover the underlying malignancy in patients with no history of cancer. For those cases without malignant neoplasm, attention should be directed to the disability caused by the severe visual loss, which led to accidental head injury and intracerebral hemorrhage in this case.

Schizanrins [corrected] B, C, D, and E, four new lignans from Kadsura matsudai and their antihepatitis activities

Bioassay-directed fractionation of ethanolic extract of Kadsura matsudai Hayata has resulted in the isolation of four novel C(18) dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans, schizanrin B (1), schizanrin C (2), schizanrin D (3), and schizanrin E (4). Schizanrin B (1) showed moderate to strong activity for antihepatitis in both anti-HBsAg and anti-HBeAg assays, and 3 and 4 also were active in the latter assay [corrected]. Compounds 1--4 were inactive in vitro against HIV replication in H9 lymphocytes. All new structures were elucidated using spectral analysis. Their structural elucidation by spectral and structure--activity relationships is also discussed.

Three new furan derivatives and a new fatty acid from a Taiwanese marine sponge Plakortis simplex

Three new furan derivatives, plakorsins A-C (6-8), together with a new fatty acid, plakortic acid (9), have been isolated from the Taiwanese marine sponge Plakortis simplex in addition to the known metabolites chondrillin (1), 6-epi-chondrillin (2), 2-oxo-2,5-dihydrofuran-5-acetic acid methyl ester (methyl 1,4-epoxy-1-oxo-2-hexenoate) (3), dimethyl beta-ketoadipate (4), and the monomethyl ester of cis,cis-muconic acid (5). The structures of these compounds were established mainly on the basis of spectral data and chemical methods. Biological studies revealed that compound 7 exhibited cytotoxic activity against COLO-250 and KB-16 cells, and compound 1 is active against KB-16 cells.

Antagonism of free-radical-induced damage of adlay seed and its antiproliferative effect in human histolytic lymphoma U937 monocytic cells

The goal of our current research was to investigate the antioxidative effects of methanolic extracts from different parts of adlay seed and their antiproliferative activity in malignant human cells. The methanolic extracts from different parts of adlay seeds were from the hull (AHM), testa (ATM), bran (ABM), and polished adlay (PAM). AHM exhibited greater capacity to scavenge superoxide anion radicals in the PMS-NADH system than ATM, ABM, or PAM. The scavenging capacities of AHM and ATM on hydrogen peroxides were about 20% at a dose of 250 microg/mL. Using the method of deoxyribose degradation to assess damage caused by hydroxyl radicals, AHM was found to inhibit damage in deoxyribose at a higher concentration. However, ATM, ABM, and PAM exhibited prooxidative activity at the same concentration. The inhibitory effect on enzymatic oxidation of xanthine to uric acid was found to follow the order AHM > ATM =. ABM. However, PAM was inactive. All test samples were positive for inhibition of TPA-induced free radical formation on neutrophil-like leukocytes and were found to follow the order AHM > ATM > ABM > PAM. When human histolytic lymphoma U937 monocytic cells were exposed to tert-butyl hydroperoxide, AHM protected the cells against the cytotoxicity caused by tert-butyl hydroperoxide. In addition, AHM exhibited antiproliferative activity against human histolytic lymphoma U937 monocytic cells in a dose-dependent manner. The antiproliferative properties of AHM appear to be attributable to its induction of apoptotic cell death as determined by flow cytometry. These results show that AHM displays multiple antioxidant effects and induces apoptosis of malignant human cells.

Nonprotein amino acids in edible lentil and garden pea seedlings

Commercial edible seedlings of garden pea (Pisum sativum L.) and lentil (Lens culinaris L.) contain high concentration of nonprotein amino acids and trigonelline. Both seedlings grown in the laboratory or purchased in a supermarket were studied by HPLC. Samples from both origins contained trigonelline, alpha-aminoadipic acid, homoserine, beta-(isoxazolin-5-on-2-yl)-alanine (BIA), and gamma-glutamyl-BIA. Garden pea seedlings also contained a uracil-alanine derivative (isowillardiine) in substantial amount. Some of these compounds such as BIA and alpha-aminoadipic acid have neurotoxic activity.

A novel anti-HBeAg homolignan, taiwanschirin D from Kadsura matsudai

A novel C19 homolignan, taiwanschirin D (1), possessing a 3,4-(1-[(Z)-2-methoxy-2-oxoethylidenel)pentano (2,3-dihydrobenzo[b]furan)-3(2-oxoacetate) skeleton, was isolated from the stem of Kadsura matsudai Hayata. Its structure was determined from physical and spectral data including 2D NMR spectra. The Anti-HBeAg test revealed that taiwanschirin D (1) had moderate activity at a concentration of 94.3 microM (50 microg/ml).

Four new compounds, ficusal, ficusesquilignan A, B, and ficusolide diacetate from the heartwood of Ficus microcarpa

Three new lignans, ficusal (1) and ficusesquilignans A (2), B (3) and one new gamma-lactone, ficusolide diacetate (4), were isolated from the wood of Ficus microcarpa L.f. Their structures were determined by spectral evidence.

Dihydrophenanthrenes from Spiranthes sinensis

Six novel dihydrophenanthrene derivatives, sinensols A-F (1-6), were isolated from the aerial parts of Spiranthesis sinensis. Their structures were determined on the basis of various spectroscopic data, in particular those yielded by MS and 2D NMR techniques.