Draft genome sequence and morphological data of Planifilum fimeticola PLACP1, a thermophilic chloramphenicol-resistant bacterium isolated from thermophilic sludge

Planifilum is a thermophilic aerobic Actinomyces often found in compost that is suggested to play a primary role in the degradation of organic matter and is a potential antibiotic-resistance gene (ARG)-hosting bacterium during the composting process. Planifilum fimeticola PLACP1 was isolated from thermophilic sludge on a Columbia plate supplemented with chloramphenicol. PLACP1 was Gram-stain-positive with cells longer than 20 μm that branched and intertwined with each other. A draft genome sequence of P. fimeticola PLACP1 was generated using the Illumina NovaSeq system and deposited in the National Center for Biotechnology Information database under the BioProject accession numbers PRJDB17484 and SAMD00736731. The genome sequence comprised 3,395,140 bp, with 57.97 % GC content and 3,368 genes, including 3,267 protein-coding, 6 rRNA, and 56 tRNA genes. Based on the Comprehensive Antibiotic Resistance Database, 237 predicted gene products were related to ARGs, including 44 macrolide antibiotic-related genes (19 %) as the largest group. This dataset will be beneficial for the morphological identification, comparative genomic analyses, and ARG research in the genus Planifilum.

Identification of Capsular Polysaccharide Synthesis Loci Determining Bacteriophage Susceptibility in Tetragenococcus halophilus

Bacteriophages infecting Tetragenococcus halophilus, a halophilic lactic acid bacterium, have been a major industrial concern due to their detrimental effects on the quality of food products. Previously characterized tetragenococcal phages displayed narrow host ranges, but there is little information on these mechanisms. Here, we revealed the host's determinant factors for phage susceptibility using two virulent phages, phiYA5_2 and phiYG2_4, that infect T. halophilus YA5 and YG2, respectively. Phage-resistant derivatives were obtained from these host strains, and mutations were found at the capsular polysaccharide (CPS) synthesis (cps) loci. Quantification analysis verified that capsular polysaccharide production by the cps derivatives from YG2 was impaired. Transmission electron microscopy observation confirmed the presence of filamentous structures outside the cell walls of YG2 and their absence in the cps derivatives of YG2. Phage adsorption assays revealed that phiYG2_4 adsorbed to YG2 but not its cps derivatives, which suggests that the capsular polysaccharide of YG2 is the specific receptor for phiYG2_4. Interestingly, phiYA5_2 adsorbed and infected cps derivatives of YG2, although neither adsorption to nor infection of the parental strain YG2 by phiYA5_2 was observed. The plaque-surrounding halos formed by phiYA5_2 implied the presence of the virion-associated depolymerase that degrades the capsular polysaccharide of YA5. These results indicated that the capsular polysaccharide is a physical barrier rather than a binding receptor for phiYA5_2 and that phiYA5_2 specifically overcomes the capsular polysaccharide of YA5. Thus, it is suggested that tetragenococcal phages utilize CPSs as binding receptors and/or degrade CPSs to approach host cells. IMPORTANCE T. halophilus is a halophilic lactic acid bacterium that contributes to the fermentation processes for various salted foods. Bacteriophage infections of T. halophilus have been a major industrial problem causing fermentation failures. Here, we identified the cps loci in T. halophilus as genetic determinants of phage susceptibility. The structural diversity of the capsular polysaccharide is responsible for the narrow host ranges of tetragenococcal phages. The information provided here could facilitate future studies on tetragenococcal phages and the development of efficient methods to prevent bacteriophage infections.

Effect of Hot Water Bottles on Body Temperature during Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Dogs under General Anesthesia: A Retrospective Study

Prevention of hypothermia induced by anesthesia and enhanced by low environmental temperatures is difficult in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations in dogs as forced warming devices, including magnetic materials, are not acceptable for use in the MRI room. A hot water bottle (HWB) can be carried into an MRI examination room and can contribute to the prevention or attenuation of hypothermia. Here, we retrospectively investigated the effects of HWB on body temperature during MRI examinations in dogs under general anesthesia (GA). From anesthesia records of the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, Okayama University of Science, validated data of 100 dogs that underwent an MRI examination under GA were obtained and divided into the following two groups: one group received HWB, while the other did not. Decrease in rectal temperature 15 min after intubation was significantly smaller in the group using HWB than in the group without HWB. In conclusion, the use of hot water bottles might be one of the methods to attenuate hypothermia in the early period but should not be expected for complete prevention of hypothermia, and it was not recommendable necessarily for body temperature management during MRI examinations in dogs under general anesthesia.

Foot rubbing evaluation of friction between shoe and flooring

A simple and inexpensive method to evaluate slip resistance that can be readily introduced into the workplace is required. In the present study, we investigated the relationship between a simple sensory evaluation of anti-slipperiness by foot rubbing in standing and sitting positions and the actual friction properties obtained with in situ measurements at slip onset and during sliding. We also verified the possibility of identifying a hazardous area with a high slip-induced fall risk by the sensory evaluation scores. At the foot rubbing tests, more than half of the 15 participants in experiments could adequately perceive the slip resistance using the proposed method without any education on its perception. Furthermore, hazard detection scores, where a friction coefficient of 0.2 was detected as hazardous area, were obtained from optimal cut-off points of receiver operatorating characteristic curves for the participants with friction perception capability. The scores were 28.7, 20.7, 24.7, and 52.3/100 for the slip onset while standing, sliding while standing, slip onset while sitting, and sliding while sitting, respectively. From the viewpoint of hazard detection accuracies, the standing position was a better way than the sitting although limited to participants with the capability of perceiving friction. Based on the analysis of how to apply forces, the participants who showed a small movement of the center of pressure while standing or an increase in the vertical load while sitting had the capability of perceiving friction.

Ribitol-Containing Wall Teichoic Acid of Tetragenococcus halophilus Is Targeted by Bacteriophage phiWJ7 as a Binding Receptor

Tetragenococcus halophilus, a halophilic lactic acid bacterium, is used in the fermentation process of soy sauce manufacturing. For many years, bacteriophage infections of T. halophilus have been a major industrial problem that causes fermentation failure. However, studies focusing on the mechanisms of tetragenococcal host-phage interactions are not sufficient. In this study, we generated two phage-insensitive derivatives from the parental strain T. halophilus WJ7, which is susceptible to the virulent phage phiWJ7. Whole-genome sequencing of the derivatives revealed that insertion sequences were transposed into a gene encoding poly(ribitol phosphate) polymerase (TarL) in both derivatives. TarL is responsible for the biosynthesis of ribitol-containing wall teichoic acid, and WJ7 was confirmed to contain ribitol in extracted wall teichoic acid, but the derivative was not. Cell walls of WJ7 irreversibly adsorbed phiWJ7, but those of the phage-insensitive derivatives did not. Additionally, 25 phiWJ7-insensitive derivatives were obtained, and they showed mutations not only in tarL but also in tarI and tarJ, which are responsible for the synthesis of CDP-ribitol. These results indicate that phiWJ7 targets the ribitol-containing wall teichoic acid of host cells as a binding receptor. IMPORTANCE Information about the mechanisms of host-phage interactions is required for the development of efficient strategies against bacteriophage infections. Here, we identified the ribitol-containing wall teichoic acid as a host receptor indispensable for bacteriophage infection. The complete genome sequence of tetragenococcal phage phiWJ7 belonging to the family Rountreeviridae is also provided here. This study could become the foundation for a better understanding of host-phage interactions of tetragenococci.

Biohydrogen production by mixed culture of Megasphaera elsdenii with lactic acid bacteria as Lactate-driven dark fermentation

Numerous attempts have been made to upscale biohydrogen production via dark fermentation (DF); however, the Achilles' heel of DF, i.e., lactic acid bacteria (LAB) contamination and overgrowth, hinders such upscaling. Key microbes are needed to develop a lactate-driven DF system that can serve as a lactate fermentation platform. In this study, the utility of Megasphaera elsdenii and LAB co-culturing in lactate-driven DF was evaluated. When inoculated simultaneously with LAB or after LAB culture, M. elsdenii achieved a stable hydrogen yield of 0.95-1.49 H₂-mol/mol-glucose, approximately half that obtained in pure M. elsdenii cultures. Hydrogen production was maintained even at an initial M. elsdenii-to-LAB cell ratio of one-millionth or less. Moreover, M. elsdenii produced hydrogen via lactate-driven DF from unusable sugars such as xylose or cellobiose. Thus, M. elsdenii could be a Game changer instrumental in unlocking the full potential of DF.

Noninvasive Thermographic Photographing as an Assessment of the State of Discomfort in a Dog Receiving Radiation Therapy

Simple Summary

In humans, radiation induces dilation of the capillaries and inflammatory reactions, which raise skin temperature; and thermography is used to detect abnormalities after radiation therapy. However, in the field of veterinary nursing, there are no reports objectively evaluating the condition of dogs after radiation therapy using thermography. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the nasal irradiation temperature, behavioral changes, and post-irradiation pain scores in a dog receiving radiation therapy for intranasal tumors. There were no differences in behavior before and after irradiation, and pain scores were low, but the nasal planum temperature increased significantly after irradiation. Since there are individual differences in stress-related behaviors, such as pain and discomfort, assessing a dog’s pain using only subjective assessment methods, such as appearance and behavioral evaluation, is limited. In this study, we used thermography to understand changes in conditions that could not be detected by routine monitoring alone. This method is non-invasive, objective, and indispensable for proposing appropriate care.

Abstract

In humans, radiation induces dilation of capillaries and inflammatory reactions to raise skin temperature. Thermography is used to detect abnormalities after radiation therapy (RT). However, in veterinary nursing, objective evaluation of the condition of dogs after RT using thermography has not been reported. We investigated the nasal irradiation temperature, behavioral changes, and post-irradiation pain scores in a dog receiving RT for intranasal tumors. The temperature of the nasal planum gradually increased after irradiation, reaching a significantly higher value at 120–240 min. The highest temperature was 42.3 °C and the average temperature increased by 4.4 °C. Behavioral analysis pre- and post-RT did not vary significantly. Post-RT pain levels evaluated by the pain scale ranged from 0 to 1 throughout. No veterinary treatment was provided. In humans, increased skin temperature after radiation causes psychological stress, i.e., pain and discomfort, but no such behavioral changes were observed in this case. Given individual differences in stress-related behaviors, such as pain and discomfort, assessing a dog’s painfulness using only subjective methods, such as appearance and behavioral evaluation, is limited. We used thermography to assess changes in conditions not detectable by routine monitoring alone. This method is non-invasive, objective, and indispensable for providing appropriate care.

Establishment of a canine lens epithelial cell line

Some immortalized lens epithelial cell lines have been established and are useful for molecular analysis. The establishment of additional cell lines must, however, enable a variety of in-vitro examinations. The objective of this study was to establish a new canine lens epithelial cell line by isolating CLC-1 cells from the lens tissue of a dog with cataracts. In CLC-1 cells, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) treatment significantly decreased gene expression of an epithelial marker and elevated that of mesenchymal markers; these characteristics are similar to those of a human lens epithelial cell line. Interestingly, CLC-1 cells exhibited lower expression of an epithelial marker and higher expression of mesenchymal markers than an anterior lens capsule. These results suggest that CLC-1 cells were derived from a cell population that was committed to epithelial-mesenchymal transition in cataract lens tissue. In conclusion, CLC-1 cells could be useful for analyzing molecular pathogenesis in canine cataracts.

Comparative Genomics of Closely Related Tetragenococcus halophilus Strains Elucidate the Diversity and Microevolution of CRISPR Elements

Tetragenococcus halophilus – a halophilic lactic acid bacterium – is frequently used as a starter culture for manufacturing fermented foods. Tetragenococcus is sometimes infected with bacteriophages during fermentation for soy sauce production; however, bacteriophage infection in starter bacteria is one of the major causes of fermentation failure. Here, we obtained whole-genome sequences of the four T. halophilus strains YA5, YA163, YG2, and WJ7 and compared them with 18 previously reported genomes. We elucidated five types of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) loci in seven genomes using comparative genomics with a particular focus on CRISPR elements. CRISPR1 was conserved in the four closely related strains 11, YA5, YA163, and YG2, and the spacer sequences were partially retained in each strain, suggesting that partial deletions and accumulation of spacer sequences had occurred independently after divergence of each strain. The host range for typical bacteriophages is narrow and strain-specific thus these accumulation/deletion events may be responsible for differences in resistance to bacteriophages between bacterial strains. Three CRISPR elements, CRISPR1 in strains 11, YA5, YA163, and YG2, CRISPR2 in strain WJ7, and CRISPR2 in strain MJ4, were inserted in almost the same genomic regions, indicating that several independent insertions had occurred in this region. As these elements belong to class 1 type I-C CRISPR group, the results suggested that this site is a hotspot for class 1, type I-C CRISPR loci insertion. Thus, T. halophilus genomes may have acquired strain-specific bacteriophage-resistance through repeated insertion of CRISPR loci and accumulation/deletion events of their spacer sequences.

The Outcome and CT Findings of Low-Dose Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy with SQAP in a Cat with Thymoma

A 9-year-old male intact domestic cat weighing 4.6 kg was referred for tachypnea. A large mass was visible in computed tomography (CT) scans of the thoracic cavity. A histopathological evaluation of the mass was consistent with thymoma. The cat was treated with 2 × 8 Gy intensity modulated radiation therapy and sulfoquinovosyl acyl propanediol (SQAP). Post radiation therapy (RT), the tumor structure appeared cystic in the CT, and the tumor volume decreased by approximately 80% after aspiration than that before aspiration. The tumor was removed surgically. RT treatment with SQAP made it possible to treat the thymoma with a low total radiation dose.

Establishment and characterization of a canine sebaceous epithelial cell line derived from an eyelid mass

Little is known about the pathological roles of sebaceous glands in canine skin diseases, as most examinations have been conducted with cultured human sebaceous epithelial cell lines. To our knowledge, there is no available canine sebaceous epithelial cell line. The purpose of this study was to establish a canine sebaceous epithelial cell line and characterize it. An eyelid mass in a dog was surgically resected for treatment, and it was histologically diagnosed as sebaceous epithelioma. Collected tissue was conducted for culture, and the growing epithelial-like cells were passaged. The cells showed continuous proliferation for over 6 months. After 40 passages, the cells were named CMG-1. Lipid droplets in the cytoplasm of CMG-1 cells were confirmed by Oil Red O staining. As reported in studies with human sebaceous epithelial cell lines, lipogenesis in CMG-1 cells was promoted by linoleic acid, whereas transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) suppressed it. Additionally, real-time PCR revealed that the expression levels of chemokines and cytokines, including CC chemokine ligand (CCL)-2, CCL-20, CXCL-10, Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), Interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, and IL-8, were significantly increased in CMG-1 cells following treatment with lipopolysaccharide. In conclusion, we successfully established a new canine sebaceous epithelial cell line. Our data indicated that lipogenesis and inflammatory responses were quantitatively evaluable in this cell line. CMG-1 cells could be useful for the pathological analysis of sebaceous gland diseases in dogs.

Mass spectrometry of urinary β2 microglobulin oligomer in patients with proteinuria

Urinary β2 microglobulin (β2-m) is a marker of renal tubule dysfunction; however, β2-m might become degraded under acidic conditions. To confirm the degradation and consequent deactivation of β2-m under acidic conditions, we used matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) to detect the levels and forms of β2-m in the urine samples of patients with high proteinuria (n = 21) and healthy subjects (n = 6). β2-m was purified in crude form using immunoprecipitation. A signal of 11.74 kDa, corresponding to the molecular weight of β2-m, was detected in all samples. In addition, several high-molecular-weight proteins were detected in a patient as integrals of the intensity at 11.74 kDa. These results indicate that posttranslational modifications of β2-m might be involved in the pathological process of proteinuria. Therefore, MS can be used for monitoring proteinuria and predicting the risk of progression.

Atrial septal defect closure in a midget toy poodle

Background

Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a rare congenital cardiac disease, and there have been no reports about the treatment of ASD in midget breed dogs.

Case Description

A 7-month-old female toy poodle weighing 1.4 kg presented with cardiac enlargement. Echocardiography revealed a secundum-type ASD, right ventricular and atrial enlargement, and pulmonary hypertension. Blood flow through the ASD exhibited left-to-right shunting. The dog underwent ASD closure through a hybrid approach, in conjunction with catheter techniques and thoracotomy. Ten months after treatment, cardiac enlargement and pulmonary hypertension were improved.

Conclusion

Even in midget dog breeds, ASD can be corrected through a hybrid approach.

Magnetic resonance imaging findings of an intradural extramedullary hemangiosarcoma in a dog

An 11-year-old male Miniature Dachshund was referred for acute neurological deficits in the pelvic limbs. T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging revealed that the spinal cord at the L1-2 intervertebral disc space was heterogeneously hyperintense in the sagittal plane and was mildly compressed from the ventral side by a small hypointense mass in the transverse plane. However, the lesion showed mass enhancement and severe spinal cord compression on post-contrast T1-weighted imaging. On three-dimensional myelography, a “golf tee sign” was observed around the mass. Therefore, we diagnosed an intradural extramedullary lesion. The mass was surgically removed and histologically diagnosed as a hemangiosarcoma. The “golf tee sign” observed on magnetic resonance myelography may be useful for distinguishing intradural extramedullary masses from intramedullary masses.

Bio-hythane production from cassava residue by two-stage fermentative process with recirculation

The two-stage hythane fermentation of cassava residue low in protein, rich in iron, and deficient in nickel and cobalt, resulted in failure after long-term operation, showing a radical decrease in methane production along with an increase in volatile fatty acids (VFAs) accumulation in the second stage. Based on the gap between theoretical demand and existing content of nutrients, the effect of their additions on hythane fermentation was validated in the repeated batch experiment and continuous experiment. The proliferation of hydrolysis bacteria, acidogens, and hydrogen producing bacteria and methanogens was guaranteed by sufficient N (0.7g/L), S (30mg/L), Ni (1.0mg/L), and Co (1.0mg/L), and the metabolism of a sustainable hythane fermentation was recovered. In this optimal nutrient combination of above trace elements, the highest hythane yield (426m³ hythane with 27.7% of hydrogen from 1ton of cassava residue) was obtained.

Changes in the albumin glycation site, plasma pentosidine and esRAGE concentrations before and after intensive diabetic treatment in patients with abnormally high glycated albumin levels

Background We have reported that the blood glucose normalization treatment reduced the albumin glycation sites and the intensity of albumin AGE fluorescence in patients with abnormally high glycated albumin levels. To clarify the relationship between glycaemic control status and levels of glycated proteins and related markers, we studied the change of the markers of the DM patients with and without fatty liver, liver cirrhosis and dialysis before and after the intensive diabetic treatment. Methods Eight diabetic patients with abnormally high glycated albumin levels (no complications: 2, fatty liver: 3, liver cirrhosis: 2, dialysis: 1) were recruited. In the hypoglycaemic treatment for these patients, the HbA1c, glycated albumin, albumin AGE fluorescence, pentosidine, endogenous secretory receptors for AGE (esRAGE) and glycation sites of albumin were determined. Results Glycated albumin and HbA1c levels dropped after the treatment. Albumin glycation sites decreased in almost the same pattern, irrespective of the type of complications. The fluorescence intensity and pentosidine concentrations decreased significantly. However, post-treatment pentosidine concentrations were higher than the reference interval in all cases. Average esRAGE concentrations did not change and were lower than the reference interval. Conclusions Hypoglycaemic treatment reduced the glycated albumin levels, glycation sites of albumin and AGE concentrations but not esRAGE concentrations in diabetic patients with or without fatty liver, liver cirrhosis, and dialysis. Checking and maintaining low glycated albumin levels would prevent the formation of AGE and may be useful to prevent the onset or progression of diabetes complications.

Community analysis of picocyanobacteria in an oligotrophic lake by cloning 16S rRNA gene and 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing

In this study, the picocyanobacterial species composition of Lake Miyagase was examined by analyzing the 16S rRNA gene in a clone library and by amplicon sequencing using a benchtop next-generation sequencer. Five separate samples were analyzed from different days over a ten-month period. In the picocyanobacterial lineage, 9 and 12 OTUs were identified from a clone library and by amplicon sequencing, respectively. Both analyses suggested that a picocyanobacterium related to Synechococcus sp. MW6B4 was dominant in Lake Miyagase. Our findings suggest that 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing enables detailed evaluation of picocyanobacteria composition. One OTU identified was found to be a novel cluster that does not group with any of the known freshwater picocyanobacteria.

Evaluation of Interhandle Distance During Pushing and Pulling of a Four-Caster Cart for Upper Limb Exertion

Background

This study examined the relationship between interhandle distances and upper limb exertion during simply pushing and pulling of a cart with four swivel wheels, defined by a roll box pallet (RBP) in a Japanese industrial standard.

Methods

Six healthy young male participants were asked to push and pull an RBP at a distance of 5.2 m under six conditions corresponding to different interhandle distances (40 cm, 60 cm, and 80 cm) and weights (130 kg and 250 kg). The upper limb exertion was studied by shoulder abduction and flexion, and elbow flexion, as well as surface electromyogram (EMG) in shoulder extensor, and elbow flexor and extensor. Participants were required to provide subjective evaluations on operability after each trial.

Results

Subjective operability indicated that a narrower interhandle distance had a better operability for pushing. Interhandle distance was also related to upper limb exertion especially for pushing. A narrow interhandle distance caused smaller shoulder adduction but larger elbow flexion. The normalized EMG data revealed that muscular activity became smaller with a narrow interhandle distance in shoulder extensor. During the pulling task, elbow flexion was smaller at a narrow interhandle distance, although subjective operability and normalized EMG were not significantly varied.

Conclusion

A wider interhandle distance, such as 80 cm, was not suitable in the forwardbackward movement of the RBP. Therefore, this study concluded that an interhandle distance of 40 cm would be suitable for pushing and pulling an RBP to protect the workers' hands against the risk of injury by installing inner handles.

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of FSK0808 and Gran after single intravenous drip administration or single subcutaneous administration: comparative study in healthy Japanese adult male subjects

FSK0808 is a recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor developed by Fuji Pharma Co., Ltd and Mochida Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. as a biosimilar product of Gran®. We verified the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic equivalence of FSK0808 and commercially available Gran® by a randomized crossover study of single intravenous dose (200 µg/m(2)) and single subcutaneous dose (400 µg/m(2)) in healthy Japanese adult male subjects. According to the bioequivalence guidelines, the area under the blood concentration - time curve by 48 hours after administration (AUC0-48) in a single intravenous drip (IVD) study, and AUC0-48 and maximum blood concentration (Cmax) in a single subcutaneous (SC) dose study were used as primary endpoints, and the pharmacodynamic parameters including absolute neutrophil count (ANC) or number of CD34 positive cells (CD34(+) cells) as secondary endpoints. The safety was evaluated based on the characteristics and incidence of adverse reactions. As a result, the 90% confidence interval (CI) of the difference in mean value for AUC0-48 among drugs ranged from log(0.8) to log(1.25), in the IVD study, and those for Cmax and AUC0-48 were within the range of log(0.8)-log(1.25) in the SC study. Those for secondary endpoints were all within the range of log(0.8)-log(1.25). Thus, the pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of both drugs were considered equivalent for all routes of administration, and the profiles of adverse reactions were also very similar.

A community cluster of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus exhibiting cross-resistance to oseltamivir and peramivir in Japan, November to December 2013

Six influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses were detected in Sapporo, Japan, between November and December 2013. All six viruses possessed an H275Y substitution in the neuraminidase protein, which confers cross-resistance to oseltamivir and peramivir. No epidemiological link among the six cases could be identified; none of them had received neuraminidase inhibitors before specimen collection. The haemagglutinin and neuraminidase genes of the six viruses were closely related to one another, suggesting clonal spread of a single resistant virus.

Dirac versus Weyl fermions in topological insulators: Adler-Bell-Jackiw anomaly in transport phenomena

Dirac metals (gapless semiconductors) are believed to turn into Weyl metals when perturbations, which break either time reversal symmetry or inversion symmetry, are employed. However, no experimental evidence has been reported for the existence of Weyl fermions in three dimensions. Applying magnetic fields near the topological phase transition from a topological insulator to a band insulator in Bi1-xSbx we observe not only the weak antilocalization phenomenon in magnetoconductivity near zero magnetic fields (B<0.4  T), but also its upturn above 0.4 T only for E//B. This "incompatible" coexistence between weak antilocalization and "negative" magnetoresistivity is attributed to the Adler-Bell-Jackiw anomaly ("topological" E·B term) in the presence of weak antilocalization corrections.

[Clinical verification of serum procalcitonin measurement in sepsis]

To evaluate the clinical application of measuring procalcitonin (PCT) level for diagnosis of bacterial sepsis in patients with and without systemic inflammatory response syndrome(SIRS), we studied the relationship between blood culture (BC) and serum PCT level in clinical 207 cases. In addition, we evaluated the time courses of PCT and other inflammatory markers: tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin 6 (IL-6), E-selectin, WBC count and C-reactive protein (CRP) in 5 bacterial septic patients with SIRS. Serum PCT showed sensitivity of 41% and specificity of 61%, while BC showed specificity of 88%. In 27 BC-positive cases, serum PCT was significantly elevated in gram-negative bacterial sepsis. We observed 11 cases with BC(+) and serum PCT below 0.5 ng/ml. Major causes of these discrepancies were probably due to gram-positive bacterial infection, local bacterial infection or pretreatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics. In contrast, 10 cases with BC(-) and serum PCT over 10 ng/ml were presumably due to some cytokine elevation caused by virus infection or collagen diseases. In 5 cases studied for inflammatory markers, TNF-alpha level elevated earlier than the others and followed by PCT, IL-6, WBC, CRP, and E-selectin. It was suggested that the measurement of serum procalcitonin in septic patients is clinically useful marker to diagnose gram-negative bacterial septic patients with SIRS.

[Molecular epidemiology of Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) -positive Staphylococcus aureus associated with skin and soft tissue infection]

Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) secreted by Staphylococcus aureus is known to cause severe skin, soft tissue and lung infections. To assess the prevalence and genetic characteristics of PVL-positive S. aureus in our hospital, we investigated 86 S. aureus isolates isolated from skin and soft tissue pus between September 2011 and May 2012 at Daisan Hospital, the Jikei University School of Medicine (Tokyo, Japan). All isolates were investigated for the mecA gene and PVL gene by PCR amplification. The MRSA isolates confirmed were genotyped using SCCmec typing. PVL-gene positive isolates confirmed by the PVL-RPLA (reverse passive latex agglutination) assay were characterized by agr typing and multilocus sequence typing (MLST). Overall 6 (3 MSSA isolates and 3 MRSA isolates) PVL-positive strains (7.0%) were detected. The PVL prevalence was 11.1% in MRSA and 5.1% in MSSA. PVL-positive strains were isolated from young adults (range: 8-47 years) outpatient. Patients infected with PVL-positive MRSA were significantly younger than those infected with PVL-negative MRSA(32 and 68 years, respectively; P = 0.009, t-test). The 6 PVL positive strains were assigned by the MLST to 6 STs that were prevalent among PVL-positive strains. The SCCmec type of the PVL-positive MRSA were classified into 2 types (type IV or V) that were generally characteristic of CA-MRSA. Our data are consistent with some previous reports showing that PVL gene is found in certain ST strains. The PVL-positive strain must be taken into account when S. aureus is isolated from young adult SSTI.

Topological phase transitions driven by magnetic phase transitions in Fe(x)Bi2Te3 (0≤x≤0.1) single crystals

We propose a phase diagram for Fe(x)Bi2Te3 (0≤x≤0.1) single crystals, which belong to a class of magnetically bulk-doped topological insulators. The evolution of magnetic correlations from ferromagnetic to antiferromagnetic gives rise to topological phase transitions, where the paramagnetic topological insulator of Bi2Te3 turns into a band insulator with ferromagnetic-cluster glassy behavior around x∼0.025, and it further evolves to a topological insulator with valence-bond glassy behavior, which spans over the region from x∼0.03 up to x∼0.1. This phase diagram is verified by measuring magnetization, magnetotransport, and angle-resolved photoemission spectra with theoretical discussions.

Evaluation of the chondroprotective effects of glucosamine and fish collagen peptide on a rabbit ACLT model using serum biomarkers

The aim of this study was to investigate the correlations of severity of osteoarthritis (OA) and serum biomarkers including keratan sulfate (KS), hyaluronic acid (HA) and chondroitin sulfate (CS) 846 epitope. We also investigated the effect of glucosamine and fish collagen peptide (FCP) on OA. OA was induced in 12 rabbits (12 weeks of age) by anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT). After the surgery, the rabbits were orally administered FCP (F group), glucosamine (G group) or FCP and glucosamine (FG group) for 4 weeks. The control group was provided water ad libitum (C group). Blood was collected before surgery (pre-ACLT) and before euthanasia (post-ACLT) for serum marker measurement. Biomarker levels were measured by using commercial kits. We evaluated OA severity both macroscopically and histologically. Macroscopic evaluation showed mildly eroded condylar surfaces in the C group. Histological findings were significantly different from the FG and other groups. There were no significant differences between each group at post-ACLT in terms of serum KS, HA and CS 846. Histological assessment and serum biomarker measurements performed at post-ACLT showed a significant correlation between HA concentration and OA severity. Variations in the CS 846 concentration at pre-ACLT and post-ACLT were significantly correlated with OA severity. Administration of glucosamine and FCP had chondroprotective effects in the ACLT model. Serum biomarker concentrations were significantly correlated with cartilage injury. Serum biomarker measurement would be useful for monitoring articular cartilage damage in the clinical setting.

Correlation of plasma amino acid concentrations and chondroprotective effects of glucosamine and fish collagen peptide on the development of osteoarthritis

We investigated the correlation of plasma amino acid concentrations and the effects of glucosamine and fish collagen peptide (FCP) on osteoarthritis (OA). OA was induced according to the rabbit anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) model. After surgery, the rabbits were orally administered FCP (F group), glucosamine (G group) or both (FG group) for 4 weeks. The control group (C group) was not administered anything. Blood was collected before surgery (pre-ACLT) and before euthanasia (post-ACLT). Changes in the alanine, threonine and methionine concentrations were significant between pre- and post-ACLT. The correlation between the histological assessment and arginine concentration post-ACLT was significant. These findings indicate that measurement of plasma amino acids is useful for evaluation of the efficacy of intervention for OA.

Elevated urinary biopyrrin excretion and oxidative bilirubin metabolism during 24-hour ultramarathon running

The oxidative metabolite of bilirubin, biopyrrin, is considered a useful candidate marker of oxidative stress in vivo. The present study examines whether urinary biopyrrin excretion is elevated and how general laboratory parameters are changed by long-duration running such as that involved in ultramarathons. Fifteen volunteer runners (12 males and 3 females; aged 44 +/- 9 years; means +/- SD) provided written informed consent to participate in this study. The 24-h experimental run was not a race against time but rather to determine the effects of running around a track for 24 h without sleep and sufficient rest. Blood and urine samples were obtained before (0 h), during (16 h), and immediately after (24 h) running for 24 h. All of the participants completed the run. The mean (+/- SD) distance run was 162.6 +/- 18.3 km. Mean urinary biopyrrin excretion values at 0, 16, and 24 h were 1.23 +/- 0.73, 2.55 +/- 0.95, and 4.00 +/- 1.50 U/g creatinine, respectively. Urinary biopyrrin excretion was positively and significantly correlated with the serum bilirubin concentration (p<0.05) and distance run (p<0.05). These results suggest that urinary biopyrrin excretion could be a useful marker of oxygen stress incurred during a 24-h ultramarathon.

[Relationship between glycated albumin (GA) and glycated hemoglobin (A1c) in 255 patients with liver diseases using cross-sectional laboratory data]

To investigate how liver disease alter the serum glycated proteins as markers of diabetic control, we studied serum GA, A1c and especially GA/A1c ratio in 255 patients having over 35IU/L in ALT(transaminase) compared with those of 829 type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) in cross sectional manner. 255 patients with liver diseases were divided into 69 patients with biopsy proven liver cirrhosis (LC), 66 patients with chronic hepatitis(CH) and 120 patients with fatty liver(FL) diagnosed by abdominal echography. The mean GA/A1c ratio (+/-SD) was significantly higher (p<0.0001) in LC group(3.71+/-1.03) than the other groups (3.03+/-0.45 for CH, 3.05+/-0.42 for DM), while the mean GA/A1c ratio in FL group was significantly lower(2.74+/-0.31) (p<0.0001)) than that of DM groups. In LC group the GA/A1c ratio increased significantly depending upon serum albumin and/or platelet reductions. The GA/A1c ratio was significantly correlated with the other laboratory data such as serum albumin, cholinesterase, total cholesterol levels and weakly correlated with serum hemoglobin level. We also followed the serum levels of GA and A1c and the GA/A1c ratio during about 13 months (5 times blood collections) in 18 patients enrolled in this study. Resultantly the coefficient of variation of GA/A1c ratio was the smaller than the others(GA, A1c). The ROC curve of GA/A1c ratio for LC versus FL group was the most reliable between four groups and the cut-off value for LC versus FL was 2.94. Theses results suggest that GA/A1c ratio could be an useful marker for different diagnosis when facing patients with abnormal serum ALT level in a clinical setting.

Effect of itraconazole on the pharmacokinetics of imidafenacin in healthy subjects

The effect of itraconazole, a potent inhibitor of the CYP3A isoenzyme family, on the pharmacokinetics of imidafenacin, a novel synthetic muscarinic receptor antagonist, was investigated. Twelve healthy subjects participated in this open-label, self-controlled study. In period I, subjects received a single oral dose of 0.1 mg imidafenacin. In period II, they received multiple oral doses of 200 mg itraconazole for 9 days and a single oral dose of 0.1 mg imidafenacin on day 8. Plasma concentrations of imidafenacin and M-2, the major metabolite of imidafenacin metabolized by CYP3A4, were determined. Analytes were measured by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Following coadministration with itraconazole, the maximum plasma concentration (C(max)) of imidafenacin increased 1.32-fold (90% confidence intervals [CIs]: 1.12-1.56), and the area under the plasma concentration-time curve from time 0 to infinity (AUC(0-infinity)) increased 1.78-fold (90% CI: 1.47-2.16). In conclusion, itraconazole increases the plasma concentrations of imidafenacin by inhibiting CYP3A4. Therefore, itraconazole or potent CYP3A4 inhibitors should be carefully added to imidafenacin drug regimens.

Structural and glycation site changes of albumin in diabetic patient with very high glycated albumin

BACKGROUND

Glycated albumin (GA) has been utilized to monitor mid-term glycemic control, and reflects the status of blood glucose more rapidly and effectively than hemoglobin A(1c) (HbA(1c)). To examine the relationship between GA level and structural changes or glycation sites of albumin, we analyzed pre- and post-treatment samples from a diabetic patient with extraordinary increase of GA.

METHOD

A female diabetic patient with poor glycemic control had a GA >94% and was treated with intensive insulin therapy to decrease blood glucose. We analyzed changes in fluorescence derived from tryptophan (Trp) and advanced glycation end product (AGE) of albumin isolated/purified from pre- and post-treatment samples. To determine the sites of glycation of albumin, samples were carboxymethylated and digested by Glu-C endoprotease, and peptides were analyzed using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

GA level decreased almost linearly and reflected the improved glycemic state well. Trp-related fluorescence of pre- and post-treated samples did not change while AGE-related fluorescence increased depending on GA level. Ten major glycation sites were detected in the pre-treatment sample, while 3 major glycation sites were detected in post-treated samples.

CONCLUSIONS

GA level reflects the status of blood glucose more rapidly than HbA(1c). Since GA level was related to AGE-related fluorescence and number of glycation sites, it might be a good marker for not only glycemic control of diabetic patients but also structural and functional changes of albumin.

In vivo metabolic activity of CYP2C19 and CYP3A in relation to CYP2C19 genetic polymorphism in chronic liver disease

To study whether chronic liver disease (CLD) and genetic polymorphism affect the hepatic activity of cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoforms, we compared in vivo CYP2C19 and CYP3A activities using 3-hour omeprazole hydroxylation index (plasma concentration ratio of omeprazole to its 5-hydroxylated metabolite; a higher index indicates lower CYP2C19 activity) and partial formation clearance of cortisol to 6beta-hydroxycortisol (CL(cortisol-->6beta-HC)) in 31 CLD patients (9 with chronic hepatitis; 22 with cirrhosis comprising 20 Child-Pugh type A, 1 type B, and 1 type C) and 30 healthy subjects with different CYP2C19 genotypes. The mean (+/-SEM) omeprazole hydroxylation index in CLD patients with homozygous extensive metabolizer (EM) genotype (*1/*1, n = 8), heterozyous EM (*1/*2, n = 11; *1/*3, n = 6) genotypes and poor metabolizer (PM) genotypes (*2/*2, n = 3; *3/*3, n = 3) were 17.15 +/- 2.12, 20.02 +/- 2.63, and 26.04 +/- 3.15, respectively, which were significantly higher compared with control subjects with the corresponding CYP2C19 genotypes (0.81 +/- 0.09, 1.55 +/- 0.20, and 15.5 +/- 1.52). CLD patients with PM genotype had significantly (P < .05) higher omeprazole hydroxylation indexes than did those with homozygous EM genotype, and those with heterozygous EM genotypes had intermediate values. The mean CL(cortisol-->6beta-HC) decreased significantly (P < .001) in CLD patients compared with control subjects (1.19 +/- 0.12 versus 2.26 +/- 0.24 mL/min). Multiple regression analysis showed that CLD, serum albumin level, and CYP2C19 genotype correlated significantly (P < .05) with the omeprazole hydroxylation index, whereas no significant correlation was observed between CL(cortisol-->6beta-HC) and other variables, except CLD. Because CLD and genetic polymorphism of CYP2C19 act additively to reduce CYP2C19 activity, genotyping these patients may be of value in averting adverse reactions of drugs that depend on CYP2C19 for elimination.