T-cell lymphoma infiltrating the uterus and ovaries of a Golden Retriever: a case report

BACKGROUND

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of female genital system infiltration of T-cell lymphoma in veterinary literature.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 1.5-year-old, intact female Golden Retriever was referred due to melena and hyporexia that lasted for three weeks. Fever (40.5℃), tachycardia, tachypnoea, pale mucous membranes, and purulent vaginal discharge were identified on physical examination. Blood analyses revealed leucocytosis, anaemia, hypoalbuminemia, and increased lactate and C-reactive protein levels. On abdominal radiography, the small intestine was moderately deviated because of an oval-shaped mass (13 cm × 8.7 cm) located in the mid-abdomen. An enlarged tubular-shaped structure that had the opacity of soft tissue located in dorsal to the bladder to the middle of the abdomen, and an oval-shaped mass (5.28 cm × 3.26 cm), which was suspected to be a medial iliac lymph node located at the sixth to seventh lumbar level. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed gas and fluid in the lumen of the uterine horn with a severely thickened wall, round enlarged lymph nodes around the genitourinary system, and free fluid in the abdominal cavity. Based on these results, pyometra was suspected, and an exploratory laparotomy was performed for ovariohysterectomy. The resected ovary and uterus were macroscopically hypertrophied. Histopathological examination of the ovary and uterus revealed neoplastic proliferation of large round cells with strong immunoreactivity for CD3, indicating T-cell lymphoma. Therefore, the young dog was diagnosed with genital lymphoma.

CONCLUSIONS

The present report describes T-cell lymphoma infiltrating the uterus and ovaries in a young dog, which is rarely diagnosed and could aid in the differential diagnosis of genital diseases in young dogs.

Evaluation of Dose-Dependent Obesity and Diabetes-Related Complications of Water Chestnut (Fruit of Trapa japonica) Extracts in Type II Obese Diabetic Mice Induced by 45% Kcal High-Fat Diet

Background and Objectives: The currently used pharmacological agents for metabolic disorders such as type II diabetes have several limitations and adverse effects; thus, there is a need for alternative therapeutic drugs and health functional foods. Materials and Methods: This study investigated the pharmacological effects of water chestnut (fruit of Trapa japonica) extracts (WC: 50–200 mg/kg) for type II diabetes using a 45% Kcal high-fat diet (HFD)-fed type II obese diabetic mice model for a period of 84 days, and the effects were compared to those of metformin (250 mg/kg). Results: Increases in body weight, serum biochemical indices such as triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, and blood urea nitrogen, increases in antioxidant defense system enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione, and mRNA expressions (such as AMPKα1 and AMPKα2) in the liver tissue and mRNA expressions (such as AMPKα2 mRNA, leptin, and C/EBPα) in the adipose tissue were observed in the HFD control group. The WC (50 mg/kg)-administered group showed no significant improvements in diabetic complications. However, HFD-induced obesity and diabetes-related complications such as hyperlipidemia, diabetic nephropathy, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), oxidative stress, activity of antioxidant defense systems, and gene expressions were significantly and dose-dependently inhibited and/or normalized by oral administration of WC (100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg), particularly at a dose of 100 mg/kg. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that WC at an appropriate dose could be used to develop an effective therapeutic drug or functional food for type II diabetes and various associated complications, including NAFLD.

Lateral Flank Approach for Ovariohysterectomy in a Lion (Panthera leo) with a Ruptured Pyometra

An 8.5-year-old intact female lion (Panthera leo) with a history of vomiting, lethargy, and anorexia was referred to our institution. On physical examination, the lion weighed 180 kg and had a rectal temperature of 40 °C. Blood analysis showed mild neutrophilic leukocytosis, and abdominal ultrasonography revealed an enlarged uterus with echogenic fluid. Based on the clinical signs and hematologic and ultrasonographic findings, the lion was tentatively diagnosed with pyometra. Ovariohysterectomy was performed using the lateral flank approach to avoid complications that can occur with ventral celiotomy. Surgery was performed successfully despite unexpected rupture of the uterus which had occurred before the surgery. The lion recovered uneventfully and continued to do well at the 1 year follow up after surgery. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of ovariohysterectomy with the lateral flank approach in a lion with pyometra. Our report suggests that ovariohysterectomy with the lateral flank approach could be considered as an alternative method for pyometra in wild big cats with risk of complications at the surgical site.

Selective use of a modified pre-synchronization-Ovsynch and resynchronization reproductive strategy in dairy herds: A field application study

We aimed to evaluate whether a modified pre-synchronization-Ovsynch (MPO) and resynchronization method, adjusted for the timing of biweekly reproductive consulting visits, could be implemented successfully under field conditions in dairy herds. Forty-five days after calving (calving: Day 0), 1,182 cows were assigned randomly to Ovsynch, MPO or control groups. (1) Cows were administered GnRH on Day 65, PGF_2α on Day 72 and GnRH 56 hr later, followed by timed artificial insemination (TAI) 16 hr later (Ovsynch, n = 380). (2) Cows with a CL were administered PGF_2α (n = 204) and cows without were administered GnRH (n = 199) on Day 45. Then, each cow was administered PGF_2α on Day 55 (9 to 12 days later), GnRH on Day 58 and underwent Ovsynch 7 days later (selective MPO [sMPO] n = 403). (3) The remaining cows underwent AI when oestrus was detected (EDAI, n = 399). The probabilities of pregnancy per AI 30 and 45 days after the first AI were higher in the sMPO group (odds ratios 1.99 and 1.92, p < .0001) than in the EDAI group. In addition, the probability of pregnancy by 105 days postpartum tended to be higher (p < .1) in the sMPO group than in the EDAI and Ovsynch groups, which shortened the mean interval from calving to pregnancy in the sMPO group (3.4 and 4.2 days, respectively) than in the EDAI and Ovsynch groups. In the sMPO group, the interval between the first and second treatments during pre-synchronization did not affect the probability of pregnancy per AI after the first AI. The probability of pregnancy per AI after the second AI did not differ between the Ovsynch, sMPO and EDAI groups. In conclusion, the sMPO programme, adjusted for the timing of biweekly reproductive consulting visits, followed by resynchronization, could be successfully adopted in field conditions, and is associated with good reproductive performance in dairy herds.

Anti-inflammatory effects of Capparis ecuadorica extract in phthalic-anhydride-induced atopic dermatitis of IL-4/Luc/CNS-1 transgenic mice

CONTEXT

The natural products derived from Capparis ecuadorica H.H. Iltis (Capparaceae) could have great potential for anti-inflammation since they inhibited the inflammatory response in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells.

OBJECT

This study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects and related mechanism of methanol extract of C. ecuadorica leaves (MCE) during atopic dermatitis (AD) responses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Alterations in the phenotypical markers for AD, luciferase signal, iNOS-mediated COX-2 induction pathway, and inflammasome activation were analysed in non-Tg (n = 5) and 15% phthalic anhydride (PA) treated IL-4/Luc/CNS-1 transgenic (Tg) HR1 mice (n = 5 per group), subsequent to treatment with acetone-olive oil (AOO), vehicle (DMSO) and two dose MCE (20 and 40 mg/kg) three times a week for 4 weeks.

RESULTS

MCE treatment reduced the intracellular ROS level (48.2%), NO concentration (7.1 mmol/L) and inflammatory cytokine expressions (39.1%) in the LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. A significant decrease was detected for ear thickness (16.9%), weight of lymph node (0.7 mg), IgE concentration (1.9 µg/mL), and epidermal thickness (31.8%) of the PA + MCE treated Tg mice. MCE treatment induced the decrease of luciferase signal derived from the IL-4 promoter and the recovery of the IL-4 downstream regulator cytokines. PA + MCE treated Tg mice showed decreasing infiltration of mast cells (42.5%), iNOS-mediated COX-2 induction pathway, MAPK signalling pathway and inflammasome activation in the ear tissue.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provide the first evidence that MCE may have great potential to suppress chemical-induced skin inflammation through the suppression of IL-4 cytokine and the iNOS-mediated COX-2 induction pathway, and activation of inflammasome.

Reproductive performance following a modified Presynch-Ovsynch, Double-Ovsynch, or conventional reproductive management program in Korean dairy herds

We aimed to compare the reproductive performance of dairy cattle following a modified Presynch-Ovsynch, Double-Ovsynch, or conventional reproductive management program (CRMP). On Day 30 (±5) after calving (calving = Day 0), 960 lactating cows were assigned randomly to one of two presynchronization treatments, before the synchronization of ovulation (Ovsynch) or CRMP without presynchronization. Cows were administered prostaglandin F_2α (PGF_2α) on Days 38 (±5) and 52, and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) on Day 55 (Presynch-G-Ovsynch group, n = 333); or GnRH on Day 45 (±5), PGF_2α on Day 52, and GnRH again on Day 55 (Double-Ovsynch group, n = 307). Thereafter, each cow underwent Ovsynch 7 days later: GnRH on Day 62, PGF_2α on Day 69, and GnRH again 56 h later, followed by timed artificial insemination (AI) 16 h later. The remaining cows underwent AI when estrus was detected or Ovsynch (CRMP group, n = 320). In a subset of cows (each n = 40) in the two presynchronization groups, blood collections and ovarian ultrasonography were performed on Days 30 (±4), 52, 62, and 69, and uterine cytology on Days 30 (±4) and 52. The probabilities of pregnancy per AI 32 and 60 days after the first AI were higher in the Presynch-G-Ovsynch (odds ratio [OR]: 1.89 and 1.81, P < 0.01) and Double-Ovsynch (OR: 1.63 and 1.60, P < 0.05) groups than in the CRMP group. The likelihood of pregnancy by 210 days postpartum was higher (P < 0.05) in Presynch-G-Ovsynch (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.29) and Double-Ovsynch (HR: 1.31) groups than in the CRMP group, whereas the least square mean number of inseminations per conception was lower (P < 0.05) in Presynch-G-Ovsynch (1.8) and Double-Ovsynch (1.8) groups than in the CRMP group (2.1). The percentages of cows with serum progesterone concentrations ≥1.0 ng/mL or with a corpus luteum (CL) did not differ between the groups (P > 0.1) on Days 30, 62, and 69, but were lower (P < 0.05) on Day 52 in the Presynch-G-Ovsynch than in the Double-Ovsynch groups. However, the diameter of the dominant follicles, the proportion of neutrophils in uterine cytological samples, and the prevalence of an accessory CL on Day 69 did not differ (P > 0.1) between the two groups. In conclusion, both the Presynch-G-Ovsynch and Double-Ovsynch programs improved reproductive performance vs. CRMP in smallholder Korean dairy herds, and there were no differences in the ovarian endocrine and structural dynamics, or uterine health, between the two programs involving presynchronization.

Therapeutic effects of a liquid bandage prepared with cellulose powders from Styela clava tunics and Broussonetia kazinoki bark: Healing of surgical wounds on the skin of Sprague Dawley rats

Cellulose in different forms has extensively been applied in biomedical treatments, including scaffolding, tissue engineering and tissue formation. To evaluate the therapeutic effects of a liquid bandage (LB) prepared with cellulose powders from Styela clava tunics (SCT) and Broussonetia kazinoki bark (BSLB) for healing cutaneous wounds, the remedial effects of a low concentration (LoBSLB) and a high concentration (HiBSLB) of BSLB on skin regeneration and toxicity in Sprague Dawley rats. Results indicated that the total area of skin involved in the surgical wound was lower in the BSLB-treated group compared with the Vehicle-treated group at days 4–12, although some variations were observed in the HiBSLB-treated group. In addition, the BSLB-treated group showed significantly enhanced width of the re-epithelialization region and epidermal thickness when compared with the Vehicle-treated group. Furthermore, significant stimulation in the expression level of collagen-1 and the signaling pathway of VEGF after topical application of BSLB was indicated. No liver or kidney toxicities were detected for either doses of BSLB. Overall, the results of the present study suggest that BSLB accelerates the process of wound healing in surgical skin wounds of Sprague Dawley rats through stimulation of re-epithelialization and connective tissue formation, without any accompanying significant toxicity.

Berberine Suppresses Fibronectin Expression through Inhibition of c-Jun Phosphorylation in Breast Cancer Cells

Purpose

The exact mechanism regulating fibronectin (FN) expression in breast cancer cells has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we investigated the pharmacological mechanism of berberine (BBR) with respect to FN expression in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells.

Methods

The clinical significance of FN mRNA expression was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier plotter database (http://kmplot.com/breast). FN mRNA and protein expression levels were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, respectively.

Results

Using publicly available clinical data, we observed that high FN expression was associated with poor prognosis in patients with breast cancer. FN mRNA and protein expression was increased in TNBC cells compared with non-TNBC cells. As expected, recombinant human FN significantly induced cell spreading and adhesion in MDA-MB231 TNBC cells. We also investigated the regulatory mechanism underlying FN expression. Basal levels of FN mRNA and protein expression were downregulated by a specific activator protein-1 (AP-1) inhibitor, SR11302. Interestingly, FN expression in TNBC cells was dose-dependently decreased by BBR treatment. The level of c-Jun phosphorylation was also decreased by BBR treatment.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that FN expression is regulated via an AP-1–dependent mechanism, and that BBR suppresses FN expression in TNBC cells through inhibition of AP-1 activity.

The Development of Emergency Medicine in South Korea: Academic Productivity in Highly Cited Journals

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to examine the number of publications by South Korean emergency physicians in highly cited journals and the increase in their numbers. It also sought to assess the impact factors of such publications.

Methods

The present study was a retrospective quantitative literature review of the publications by South Korean emergency physicians from 1996 to 2011 in the category of “emergency medicine” in the science edition of Journal Citation Reports 2011. We analysed the total number of articles published by South Korean emergency physicians and their impact factors.

Results

Between 1996 and 2011, the number of South Korean board-certified emergency physicians increased from 51 to 958, and 230 articles were published in 14 highly cited journals. The total impact factor (IF) of the original articles published during that period was 227.86, and the mean IF was 1.93. More than 10 articles had been published annually in the past 5 years in highly cited journals and there were over 400 South Korean board-certified emergency physicians.

Conclusions

Emergency medicine in South Korea started about 20 years ago, but academic productivity, indicated by at least ten articles annually in highly cited journals, was only achieved in the last five years. The mean IF of these articles was similar to that in other highly productive countries. (Hong Kong j.emerg.med. 2014;21:205-212)

Bisphenol A Affects on the Functional Properties and Proteome of Testicular Germ Cells and Spermatogonial Stem Cells in vitro Culture Model

The endocrine disruptor bisphenol A (BPA) is well known for its adverse effect on male fertility. Growing evidence suggests that BPA may interact with testicular germ cells and cause infertility as a result of its estrogenic activity. Objective of current in vitro study was to investigate the proliferation, survivability and stemness properties of mouse testicular germ cells exposed to BPA, and to evaluate possible expression of cellular proteome. Our results showed that germ cell viability and proliferation were not affected by low concentrations (0.01, 0.1, 1, and 10 µM) although significant reduction observed at 100 µM BPA. Germ cell self-renewal and differentiation related marker proteins expression found unchanged at those concentrations. When BPA-exposed germ cells were transplanted into recipient testes, we observed fewer colonies at higher concentrations (10 and 100 µM). Additionally, a significant frequency of recombination failure during meiosis was observed in 10 µM BPA-exposed germ cell transplanted recipient. Moreover, experiment on continuous BPA-exposed and 100 µM BPA-recovered germ cells suggested that spermatogonial stem cells are more potential to survive in adverse environment. Finally, scrutinizing differentially expressed cellular proteins resulted from our proteomic analysis, we conclude that BPA exposure might be associated with several health risks and infertility.

A genetic variation in microRNA target site of KRT81 gene is associated with survival in early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have a key role in carcinogenesis through negative regulation of their target genes. Therefore, genetic variations in miRNAs or their target sites may affect miRNA-mRNA interactions, thereby result in altered expression of target genes. This study was conducted to investigate the associations between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) located in the miRNA target sites (poly-miRTSs) and survival of patients with early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODS

Using public SNP database and miRNA target sites prediction program, 354 poly-miRTSs were selected for genotyping. Among these, 154 SNPs applicable to Sequenom's MassARRAY platform were investigated in 357 patients. A replication study was carried out on an independent patient population (n = 479). Renilla luciferase assay and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were conducted to examine functional relevance of potentially functional poly-miRTSs.

RESULTS

Of the 154 SNPs analyzed in a discovery set, 14 SNPs were significantly associated with survival outcomes. Among these, KRT81 rs3660G>C was found to be associated with survival outcomes in the validation cohort. In the combined analysis, patients with the rs3660 GC + CC genotype had a significantly better overall survival compared with those with GG genotype [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) for OS, 0.65; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.50-0.85; P = 0.001]. An increased expression of the reporter gene for the C allele of rs3660 compared with the G allele was observed by luciferase assay. Consistently, the C allele was associated with higher relative expression level of KRT81 in tumor tissues.

CONCLUSION

The rs3660G>C affects KRT81 expression and thus influences survival in early-stage NSCLC. The analysis of the rs3660G>C polymorphism may be useful to identify patients at high risk of a poor disease outcome.

Effects of paracrine factors on CD24 expression and neural differentiation of male germline stem cells

Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are adult male germ cells that develop after birth. Throughout the lifetime of an organism, SSCs sustain spermatogenesis through self-renewal and produce daughter cells that differentiate into spermatozoa. Several studies have demonstrated that SSCs can acquire pluripotency under appropriate culture conditions, thus becoming multipotent germline stem cells (mGSCs) that express markers of pluripotency in culture and form teratomas following transplantation into immunodeficient mice. In the present study, we generated neural precursor cells expressing CD24, a neural precursor marker, from pluripotent stem cell lines and demonstrated that these cells effectively differentiated along a neural lineage in vitro. In addition, we found that paracrine factors promoted CD24 expression during the neural differentiation of mGSCs. Our results indicated that the expression of CD24, enhanced by a combination of retinoic acid (RA), noggin and fibroblast growth factor 8 (FGF8) under serum-free conditions promoted neural precursor differentiation. Using a simple cell sorting method, we were able to collect neural precursor cells with the potential to differentiate from mGSCs into mature neurons and astrocytes in vitro.

Relationships among ketosis, serum metabolites, body condition, and reproductive outcomes in dairy cows

We determined the relationships among ketosis, serum metabolites, body condition, and reproductive disorders and performance in dairy cows. Blood samples from 213 dairy cows were collected at 4 and 2 weeks prepartum, just after calving, and at 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks postpartum to measure serum β-hydroxybutyrate, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs), glucose, total cholesterol, urea nitrogen, aspartate aminotransferase, γ-glutamyltransferase, and progesterone concentrations. Cows were grouped on the basis of the β-hydroxybutyrate concentration at 1 and/or 2 weeks postpartum into two groups: the ketotic group (≥1200 μmol/L, n = 59) and the nonketotic group (<1200 μmol/L, n = 154). The body condition score (BCS) was assessed simultaneously with blood collection. Clinical endometritis was diagnosed by observation of vaginal discharges (>50% pus), and subclinical endometritis was diagnosed by evaluation of uterine cytology (>18% neutrophils) at 4 weeks postpartum. Ovarian cysts were diagnosed by ultrasonography, and resumption of postpartum cyclicity was evaluated by progesterone concentrations (≥1 ng/mL) at 4, 6, and 8 weeks postpartum. In the ketotic group, NEFA levels were higher (P ≤ 0.0005), whereas glucose (P < 0.05-0.0005) and urea nitrogen levels (P < 0.05-0.01) were lower than those in the nonketotic group during the postpartum period. Aspartate aminotransferase levels were higher (P < 0.01) in the ketotic group than those in the nonketotic group at 2 weeks postpartum. The BCS of the ketotic group was higher than the nonketotic group during the prepartum (P < 0.001) and postpartum (P < 0.05-0.001) periods. The probabilities of clinical endometritis (odds ratio = 2.55) and ovarian cysts (odds ratio = 2.80) were higher (P < 0.05) in the ketotic group than those in the nonketotic group. The hazards of resumption of postpartum cyclicity by 8 weeks postpartum (hazard ratio = 0.67) and pregnancy by 360 days postpartum (hazard ratio = 0.68) were lower (P < 0.05) in the ketotic group. In conclusion, a higher BCS during prepartum and postpartum period and increased NEFA and aspartate aminotransferase levels, along with decreased glucose and urea nitrogen levels during postpartum, were associated with ketosis, increased reproductive disorders, and decreased reproductive performance in dairy cows.

Status of treatment for dementia patients who visited hospital as the first visit

We are approaching a period of population ageing in which the number of dementia patients will increase rapidly and become a significant social problem. There are many study guides for treatment of dementia, but there are limited numbers of studies and limited amounts of data available for evaluating the treatment used on dementia patients as related to their hospital for the first time. A study was performed using information gathered from 50 domestic hospitals to ensure that the treatment status data was representative of the actual field of clinical dementia. We observed retrospectively the medical records of 4282 patients who visited the hospital and were finally judged to have dementia from January, 2009 to December, 2010. Among the types of dementia, Alzheimer's disease (AD) had the greatest occurrence at 66.57%, with vascular dementia (VD) at 17.63%, AD with CVD at 10.18%, and Parkinson related dementia at 4.25%. The drug primarily used for initial therapy is the same drug primarily used for patients who have undergone long term dementia treatment, namely donepezil (75.22%). Among all 4282 patients, there was addition or transition of drugs used for 389 of the patients. Ineffectiveness of the initial drug treatment was the reason for the addition of drugs or transition to other drugs in almost all cases. In this study, the clinical characteristics observed for dementia treatment is compared as drugs changing, which will be helpful in the preparation of a treatment guide for dementia in the future.

Serial transrectal ultrasonography for monitoring the reproductive activity of the Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus ussuricus)

This study evaluated the structural changes in the reproductive tract of Asiatic black bears using serial transrectal ultrasonography. In addition, the ultrasonographic observations were compared with the results of vaginal cytology and hormonal analyses. The collection of blood for hormonal analysis, vaginal cytology and transrectal ultrasonography was performed in two bears (Bears 1 and 2) from June 2011 to August 2013 without mating and in a third bear (Bear 3) from April to December 2012, allowing natural mating. Serial ultrasonographic observations showed cyclic changes in ovarian structures (e.g. emergence of small follicles, growth and ovulation of dominant follicles and corpus luteum (CL) formation) during the reproductive cycles of the three bears. The diameter of the uterine horns remained similar throughout the reproductive cycle in Bears 1 and 2, and it remained similar from April until October, but an enlargement containing foetuses was observed in Bear 3 in December. The ultrasonographic observations were consistent with the data obtained through vaginal cytology and progesterone analysis during the reproductive cycle. An average of 4.0 (±0.4) dominant follicles was observed during the oestrous stage (May-August), during which the superficial cells accounted for >90% of the total vaginal cells. In addition, the detection of an average of 2.6 (±0.2) CL was associated with increased plasma progesterone concentrations (3.0 ± 0.4 ng/ml) between June and December (near hibernation). In conclusion, serial transrectal ultrasonography demonstrated yearly oestrous (ovulation) cycles via follicular dynamics and CL formation on ovaries, accordingly with vaginal cytology and hormonal level in the Asiatic black bear.

Ileal digestibility of amino acids in meat meal and soybean meal fed to growing pigs

The objective of this experiment was to determine the concentration and digestibility of crude protein (CP) and amino acid (AA) in meat meal (MM), and to compare these values with the respective values in soybean meal (SBM). Six barrows (initial body weight = 66.9±3.8 kg) surgically fitted with a T-cannula at the distal ileum were allotted to a replicated 3×3 balanced Latin square design with 3 diets and 3 periods. Two experimental diets containing test ingredients as the sole source of AA were prepared to estimate the apparent ileal digestibility (AID) for CP and AA by the direct method. An N-free diet was also prepared to estimate basal endogenous losses of CP and AA. All experimental diets contained 5% chromic oxide as an indigestible index. Each period consisted of a 5-d adaptation period and a 2-d of ileal digesta collection period. Ileal digesta samples were collected from 0900 to 1700 on d 6 and 7 of each period. The concentrations of CP, Lys, Met, and Trp in MM and SBM were analyzed to be 64.1, 3.5, 1.1 and 0.6, and 45.6, 2.8, 0.8, and 0.3%, respectively. The AID of all AA except Gly in MM was less (p<0.05) than in SBM. The AID of Lys, Met, and Trp in MM was estimated to be 56.0, 71.7, and 47.1%, respectively. The SID of all AA in MM was less (p<0.05) than in SBM. The SID of Lys, Met, and Trp was 65.1, 79.2, and 78.5%, respectively. In conclusion, the CP and AA contents in MM were greater than those in SBM whereas the ileal digestibility of all AA in MM was less than in SBM.

Conversion of twice-daily tacrolimus to once-daily tacrolimus formulation in stable pediatric kidney transplant recipients: pharmacokinetics and efficacy

The pharmacokinetics, efficacy and safety of once-daily tacrolimus formulation (Tac-OD) were assessed in 34 stable pediatric kidney transplant recipients. Enrolled patients received their dose of twice-daily tacrolimus formulation (Tac-BID) on study Days 0 through 7. On the morning of study Day 8, the total daily doses for patients were converted to Tac-OD on a 1:1 basis and maintained on a once-daily morning dosing regimen. Tacrolimus pharmacokinetic profiles were obtained on study Days 7, 14 and 28 (after dose adjustment). Although the mean C0 concentrations (4.10 ± 1.16-3.53 ± 1.10 ng/mL, p = 0.004), and AUC0-24 (151.8 ± 41.6-129.8 ± 39.3 ng h/mL, p < 0.001) were decreased significantly after a 1:1 based conversion, there was high interindividual variability. The dose of Tac-OD was decreased in 26.5% and increased in 44.1% of patients. The resultant tacrolimus dose and pharmacokinetic profiles on study Day 28 were comparable to those on Day 7. There were no serious adverse events. In conclusion, Tac-BID can be safely converted to Tac-OD in stable pediatric kidney transplant patients with the heightened therapeutic drug monitoring. Effects of drug conversion on the cardiovascular risk factors, neurological side effects and adherence should be further evaluated.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone administration to dairy cows without a corpus luteum 4 weeks after calving increases reproductive performance

This field study investigated whether the administration of a single dose of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) to dairy cows without a corpus luteum (CL) 4 weeks after calving can improve reproductive performance. Holstein dairy cows underwent ultrasonography to assess the presence of ovarian structures at 29.2 ± 5.2 days post-partum, and cows were divided into two main groups based on the presence (CL group, n = 230) or absence (non-CL group, n = 460) of a CL. The non-CL group was further randomly divided into two subgroups based on the administration of GnRH (non-CL GnRH group, n = 230) or no GnRH (non-CL control group, n = 230). Subsets of cows from non-CL control (n = 166) and non-CL GnRH (n = 175) groups received a second ultrasonography at 44.5 ± 5.4 days post-partum to assess CL formation. The percentage of cows with CL at the second ultrasonography was greater in the non-CL GnRH group (70.9%) than in the non-CL control group (53.0%, p = 0.0006). The hazard of the first post-partum insemination by 150 days in milk (DIM) was higher in the CL group than in the non-CL control group (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.36, p = 0.001). The probability of a pregnancy to the first insemination was higher in non-CL GnRH (odds ratio [OR]: 1.50, p = 0.04) and CL groups (OR: 1.55, p = 0.03) compared to the non-CL control group. Furthermore, the hazard of pregnancy by 210 DIM was higher in non-CL GnRH (HR: 1.30, p = 0.01) and CL (HR: 1.51, p = 0.0001) groups than in the non-CL control group. In conclusion, administration of GnRH to dairy cows without a CL 4 weeks after calving was associated with an increase in ovulation and improved reproductive performance.

Detection of beta-Glucosidase Activity in Polyacrylamide Gels with Esculin as Substrate

beta-Glucosidase can be located after nondenaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis by incubating the gel with 0.1% esculin and 0.03% ferric chloride. The esculetin released from esculin by beta-glucosidase action reacts with ferric ion to produce a black band, corresponding to the beta-glucosidase, against the transparent background.

Transcriptome analysis of the response of cultured murine podocytes to puromycin aminonucleoside

AIMS

Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome is known as a disease of the renal glomerular epithelial cells (podocytes). Recent advances in podocyte biology showed that podocytopathy is the culprit of nephrotic syndrome. To obtain comprehensive information about the response of podocytes to injury, we investigated the gene expression profile of podocytes in response to puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN)-induced injury.

METHODS

Differentiated mouse podocyte cell line (MPC5) cells were treated with 25 microg/ml PAN for 24, 48, or 72 h. Gene expression profiles of these cells were analyzed. Real time PCR analysis was used to confirm the findings of microarray.

RESULTS

Expression levels of 23 genes (differentially expressed genes, DEGs), including laminin alpha(1) and MMP3, were significantly different between PAN-treated podocytes and untreated cells. Gene ontology of DEGs indicated that their functional categories were cell adhesion, extracellular matrix (ECM) formation, and ECM degradation. Real-time PCR and indirect immunohistochemistry of PAN-treated and untreated podocytes confirmed the differential expression of DEGs.

CONCLUSION

Using unbiased global gene expression profiling, we found that podocytes respond to PAN-induced injury by down-regulating the expression of genes involved in cell adhesion and extracellular matrix.

The treatment of metastasis to the femoral neck using percutaneous hollow perforated screws with cement augmentation

We have developed a hollow perforated cannulated screw. One or more of these was implanted percutaneously in 11 patients with an osteolytic metastasis in the femoral neck and multiple metastases elsewhere. They were supplemented by one or two additional standard 6.5 mm cannulated screws in nine patients. Polymethylmethacrylate bone cement was injected through the screw into the neck of the femur using small syringes, as in vertebroplasty. The mean amount of cement injected was 23.2 ml (17 to 30). Radiotherapy was started on the fourth post-operative day and chemotherapy, on average, was resumed a day later. Good structural stability and satisfactory relief from pain were achieved in all the patients. This technique may be useful in the palliation of metastases in the femoral neck.

Prevention of CCl4-induced liver cirrhosis by ribbon antisense to transforming growth factor-beta1

Transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) is an important mediator of tissue fibrosis, including liver cirrhosis. Ribbon-type antisense oligonucleotide to TGF-beta1 (TGF-beta1 RiAS) was designed and combined with cationic peptide derived from the nuclear localization signal of human immunodeficiency virus-1 Tat protein for enhanced cellular uptake. When Hepa1c1c7 cells were transfected with TGF-beta1 RiAS, the level of TGF-beta1 mRNA was reduced by >70%. TGF-beta1 RiAS, mismatched RiAS, and normal saline were each injected into mice via the tail vein, beginning the week after intraperitoneal CCl4 injection and continuing for 7 weeks, in order to determine whether TGF-beta1 RiAS prevents the fibrotic changes induced by the CCl4 injection. After 8 weeks of the experiment, all of the mice treated with TGF-beta1 RiAS survived, compared to 50% of the control group and 65% of the mismatched RiAS-treated group. Upon examining the biochemical effects on the liver, TGF-beta1 mRNA levels were reduced significantly only in the TGF-beta1 RiAS-treated group. Immunohistochemical studies showed a reduced accumulation of collagen and alpha-smooth muscle actin. Our experimental results suggest that ribbon antisense to TGF-beta1, with efficient uptake, effectively blocks the expression of TGF-beta1 and prevents fibrosis of the liver.

A CIDR-based timed embryo transfer protocol increases the pregnancy rate of lactating repeat breeder dairy cows

This study evaluated the pregnancy rates following either a controlled internal drug release (CIDR)-based timed artificial insemination (TAI) or an embryo transfer (TET) protocol compared with that following a single PGF(2alpha) injection and AI after estrus (AIE) in lactating repeat breeder dairy cows. Fifty-three lactating dairy cows diagnosed as repeat breeders were used in this study and were randomly assigned to the following three treatments. (1) Cows, at random stages of the estrous cycle, received a CIDR device and 2 mg estradiol benzoate (EB; Day 0), a 25 mg PGF(2) (alpha) injection at the time of CIDR removal on Day 7 and a 1 mg EB injection on Day 8. The cows then received TAI 30 h (Day 9) after the second EB injection using dairy semen (TAI group, n=13). (2) Cows, at random stages of the estrous cycle, received the same hormonal treatments as in the TAI group. The cows then received TET on Day 16 using frozen-thawed blastocysts or morula embryos collected from Korean native cattle donors (TET group, n=13). (3) Cows, at the luteal phase, received a 25 mg injection of PGF(2alpha) and AIE using dairy semen (control group, n=27). The ovaries of the cows in the TET group were examined by transrectal ultrasonography to determine ovulation of the preovulatory follicles, and blood samples were collected for serum progesterone (P4) analysis. The pregnancy rate was significantly higher in the TET group (53.8%) than in the control (18.5%) or TAI (7.7%) groups (P<0.05). The ultrasonographic observations demonstrated that all the cows in the TET group ovulated the preovulatory follicles and concomitantly formed new corpora lutea. Accordingly, the mean serum P4 concentration remained constant between Day 0 and Day 7 of the luteal phase, decreased dramatically on Day 8 (P<0.01) and subsequently increased by Day 16 (P<0.01). These data suggest that the CIDR-based TET protocol can be used to effectively increase the pregnancy rate in lactating repeat breeder dairy cows.

Effects of cyclosporine on transplant tolerance: the role of IL-2

Allograft(dagger) transplant outcome, rejection or tolerance, depends upon striking a balance between the pertinent cytopathic and regulatory T cells. The drug cyclosporine is a widely used immunosuppressive agent among transplant recipients. Previous studies have demonstrated that cyclosporine blocks apoptosis of activated T cells and the ability of costimulation blockade based regimens to create peripheral transplant tolerance. We now test the hypothesis that the mechanism by which cyclosporine blocks tolerance induction is IL-2 dependent, and linked to a detrimental effect upon T(reg) function. Our study demonstrates that cyclosporine blocks IL-2 gene expression and activation induced cell death (AICD) of alloreactive T effector cells. We also show that cyclosporine abolishes the beneficial effects of a donor specific transfusion (DST) plus anti-CD154 monoclonal antibody (alpha CD154) regimen on enhanced T(regs) function and allograft tolerance induction. Interestingly, provision of IL-2/Fc, a long-lived form of IL-2, completely reverses the detrimental effects of this adjunctive cyclosporine treatment on AICD of alloreactive T effectors, T(regs) function and tolerance induction. Furthermore, in a MHC mismatched islet allograft model, the combination of cyclosporine with IL-2/Fc permitted long-term allograft survival and induced alloantigen specific allograft tolerance. The combination of IL-2/Fc and cyclosporine treatment may provide a new clinical strategy to promote transplant tolerance.

Unicameral bone cysts: a comparison of injection of steroid and grafting with autologous bone marrow

Open surgery is rarely justified for the initial treatment of a unicameral bone cyst, but there is some debate concerning the relative effectiveness of closed methods. This study compared the results of steroid injection with those of autologous bone marrow grafting for the treatment of unicameral bone cysts. Between 1990 and 2001, 30 patients were treated by steroid injection and 28 by grafting with autologous bone marrow. The overall success rates were 86.7% and 92.0%, respectively (p>0.05). The success rate after the initial procedure was 23.3% in the steroid group and 52.0% in those receiving autologous bone marrow (p<0.05), and the respective cumulative success rates after second injections were 63.3% and 80.0% (p>0.05). The mean number of procedures required was 2.19 (1 to 5) and 1.57 (1 to 3) (p<0.05), the mean interval to healing was 12.5 months (4 to 32) and 14.3 months (7 to 36) (p>0.05), and the rate of recurrence after the initial procedure was 41.7% and 13.3% in the steroid and in the autologous bone marrow groups, respectively (p<0.05). Although the overall rates of success of both methods were similar, the steroid group had higher recurrence after a single procedure and required more injections to achieve healing.

Comparison of two types of CIDR-based timed artificial insemination protocols for repeat breeder dairy cows

This study compared two types of controlled internal drug release (CIDR)-based timed artificial insemination (TAI) protocol for treatment of repeat breeder dairy cows. In the first trial of the experiment, 55 repeat breeder cows were randomly assigned to the following two treatments. (1) In the EB group, a CIDR device was inserted into the cows, and then the cows were administered an injection of 1 mg estradiol benzoate (EB) plus 50 mg progesterone (P4; Day 0). On Day 7, they were given an injection of PGF(2alpha) and the CIDR device was removed. The cows were given an injection of 1 mg EB on Day 8 and were subjected to TAI 30 h later (n=27). (2) In the gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) group, a CIDR device was inserted into the cows, and then the cows were administered an injection of 250 microg gonadorelin (GnRH; Day 0). On Day 7, they were given an injection of PGF(2alpha) and the CIDR device was removed. The cows were given an injection of 250 microg GnRH on Day 9 and were subjected to TAI 17 h later (n=28). In the second trial, 41 repeat breeder cows that were confirmed as not pregnant in the first trial were randomly assigned to the same two treatments used in the first trial (an EB group of 20 cows and a GnRH group of 21 cows). The ovaries of 15 cows from each group were examined by transrectal ultrasonography in order to observe the changes in ovarian structures, and blood samples were collected for analysis of serum P4 concentrations. The pregnancy rates following TAI in the first (18.5 vs. 32.1%) and second (40.0 vs. 38.1%) trials and the combined rates (27.7 vs. 34.7%) did not differ between the EB and GnRH groups. The proportions of cows with follicular wave emergence within 7 days did not differ between the EB (12/15) and GnRH groups (13/15). The interval to wave emergence was shorter (P<0.01) in the GnRH group than in the EB group, but there was no difference in the mean diameters of dominant follicles on Day 7 between the groups. Moreover, the proportions of cows with synchronized ovulation following a second EB or GnRH treatment did not differ between the groups. In conclusion, treatment with either EB or GnRH in a CIDR-based TAI protocol results in synchronous follicular wave emergence, follicular development, synchronous ovulation, and similar pregnancy rates for TAI in repeat breeder cows.

The Effects of Administering Estradiol Benzoate Plus Progesterone During the Growth or Static Phases of the Dominant Follicle in CIDR-Treated Lactating Dairy Cows

We studied the effects of administering estradiol benzoate (EB) plus progesterone (P4) as part of a CIDR-based protocol during the growth or static phases of dominant follicle development on follicular wave emergence, follicular growth, synchrony of ovulation and pregnancy rate following CIDR withdrawal, treatment with PGF(2alpha) and GnRH, and fixed-time artificial insemination (TAI). Forty-one previously synchronized lactating Holstein dairy cows were randomly allocated to three treatment groups. The control group (n=14) received a CIDR on the third day after ovulation only (Day 0). The two treatment groups were administered CIDRs comprising 2 mg EB and 50 mg P4 either on the third (T1, n=14) or eighth day (T2, n=13) after ovulation (Day 0). All cows received PGF(2alpha) after CIDR removal on Day 7, GnRH on Day 9, and TAI 16 h after GnRH treatment. The proportion of cows with follicular wave emergence within 8 days of treatment differed (P<0.01) among the control (14.3%), T1 (85.7%), and T2 groups (92.9%). However, the mean intervals between treatment and wave emergence were not significantly different. There were significant differences in the diameters of the dominant follicles on Day 7 (P<0.01) and in preovulatory follicles on Day 9 (P<0.01), with the largest follicles observed in the control group and the smallest follicles observed in the T2 group. In contrast, the numbers of cows showing synchronous ovulation after GnRH treatment (92.9 to 100.0%) and pregnancy following TAI (46.2 to 50.0%) were similar between the treatment groups. The results showed that, irrespective of the phase (growth or static) of the dominant follicle, administration of 2 mg EB plus 50 mg P4 to CIDR-treated lactating dairy cows induced consistent follicular wave emergence and development, synchronous ovulation after GnRH administration, and similar pregnancy rates following TAI.

A CIDR-based timed AI protocol can be effectively used for dairy cows with follicular cysts

The present study evaluated whether a controlled internal drug release (CIDR)-based timed AI (TAI) protocol could be used as an efficient tool for the treatment of ovarian follicular cysts in lactating dairy cows. In the first experiment, lactating dairy cows diagnosed with follicular cysts were randomly assigned to two treatments: (1) a single injection of GnRH at diagnosis (Day 0) and AI at estrus (AIE) within 21 days (GnRH group, n=70), or (2) insertion of a CIDR device containing progesterone and an injection of GnRH on Day 0, PGF(2alpha) injection at the time of CIDR removal on Day 7, GnRH injection on Day 9, and TAI 16h after the GnRH injection (CIDR-based TAI group, n=65). Conception rate after the CIDR-based TAI protocol (52.3%) was greater (P<0.05) than that after AIE following a single GnRH injection (26.9%). In the second experiment, lactating dairy cows diagnosed with follicular cysts (Cyst group, n=16) and cows having normal estrous cycles (CYC group, n=15) received the same treatment: a CIDR device containing progesterone and an injection of GnRH on Day 0, PGF(2alpha) injection at the time of CIDR removal on Day 7, and GnRH injection on Day 9. The proportion of cows with follicular wave emergence and the interval from treatment to follicular wave emergence did not differ (P>0.05) between groups. The mean diameters of dominant follicles on Days 4 and 7 as well as preovulatory follicles on Day 9, and the synchrony of ovulation following the second injection of GnRH did not differ (P>0.05) between groups. These data suggest that the CIDR-based TAI protocol results in an acceptable conception rate in dairy cows with follicular cysts.

Risk factors and the economic impact of ovarian cysts on reproductive performance of dairy cows in Korea

The objectives of this study were to determine the risk factors for development of postpartum ovarian cysts by evaluating several reproductive factors in individual cows, and to determine the economic impact of ovarian cysts on subsequent reproductive performance in dairy herds in Korea. The data, including cow parity, abnormal puerperium, endometritis, body condition score (BCS), and breeding status were collected from 634 cows in 9 dairy herds. We used logistic regression to evaluate the effects of these factors on ovarian cysts. A stepwise procedure, used to obtain the appropriate model with alpha=0.05, revealed that cow parity was the most important risk factor for ovarian cyst development within 8 weeks postpartum, while development of endometritis and BCS loss>or=1 from the dry period to 8 weeks postpartum were the most important risk factors for ovarian cyst development beyond 8 weeks postpartum. The occurrence of ovarian cysts beyond 8 weeks postpartum prolonged (P<0.01) the mean intervals from calving to first service (27 days) and conception (77 days), and increased (P<0.05) the culling rate (7.8%), while ovarian cyst development within 8 weeks postpartum did not affect (P>0.05) the mean intervals from calving to first service and conception or the culling rate. The economic loss resulting from the occurrence of ovarian cysts was estimated at approximately 823,996 won ($687) due to effects on the cost of nutrition, average growth of calves, labor and medical costs, and culling. These results suggest that cow parity is correlated with the development of ovarian cysts within 8 weeks postpartum, and endometritis and BCS loss>or=1 from the dry period to 8 weeks postpartum are correlated with the development of ovarian cysts after 8 weeks postpartum, which decreases reproductive performance and results in economic loss in dairy herds in Korea.

Follicular wave emergence, luteal function and synchrony of ovulation following GnRH or estradiol benzoate in a CIDR-treated, lactating Holstein cows

This study evaluated the effect of GnRH or estradiol benzoate (EB) on follicular wave emergence and progesterone concentrations, and following a second injection of GnRH, synchrony of ovulation, and pregnancy rates in a controlled internal drug release (CIDR)-based timed AI (TAI) protocol in lactating Holstein cows. Cows received a CIDR device without hormone (controls), with an injection of 100 microg GnRH or with an injection of 4 mg EB. Thereafter, all received PGF(2 alpha) at the time of CIDR removal on Day 7, GnRH on Day 9, and TAI 16 h later. Follicular wave emergence occurred within 7 days in 19/20 GnRH-treated, 14/20 EB-treated and 5/20 control cows (P < 0.05). The interval to wave emergence was the shorter and less variable (P < 0.01) in the GnRH group (2.9 +/- 0.2 days) than in the EB (4.7 +/- 0.5 days) or control (4.8 +/- 1.0 days) groups. Serum progesterone concentrations from Days 4 to 7 were higher (P < 0.01) in the GnRH-treated cows that ovulated than in those that did not ovulate, or in control and EB-treated cows. The diameters of dominant follicle on Day 7 differed among groups (P < 0.01), and the diameters of the preovulatory follicle on Day 9 were larger (P < 0.01) in the control and GnRH groups than in the EB group. The proportion of cows with synchronized ovulations did not differ among groups, but pregnancy rate to TAI was higher (P < 0.05) in the GnRH group (65%; 13/20) than in the control (30%; 6/20) or EB (35%; 7/20) groups. Results suggest that GnRH treatment of CIDR-treated lactating Holstein cows will result in synchronous follicular wave emergence, large preovulatory follicles and synchronous ovulation, resulting in an acceptable pregnancy rates to TAI.

Risk factors for postpartum endometritis and the effect of endometritis on reproductive performance in dairy cows in Korea

The objectives of this study were to determine the risk factors for postpartum endometritis by evaluating several reproductive factors in individual cows, and to determine the effect of endometritis on the subsequent reproductive performance in dairy herds in Korea. The data, including health status, parity and body condition score (BCS) of cows, and calving date, were collected from 320 cows in eight dairy herds calving from January 2001 to October 2002. We used logistic regression to evaluate the effects of these factors on endometritis. A stepwise procedure, used to obtain the appropriate model with alpha=0.05, revealed that retained placenta, metabolic disorders and parity are the important risk factors for endometritis. The mean intervals from calving to first service and conception were prolonged (P<0.01) by 23 and 36 days, respectively, in the endometritis group compared to the non-endometritis group. The first service conception rate was lower (P<0.05) in the endometritis group (47.6%) than in the non-endometritis group (62.6%). The number of services per conception was higher (P<0.05) in the endometritis group (1.9) than in the non-endometritis group (1.6). We conclude that retained placenta, metabolic disorders and cow parity are strongly correlated with the development of postpartum endometritis, which decreases reproductive performance in dairy herds in Korea.

Effects of dopamine HCl on structural parameters of bovine brain membranes

Fluorescence probes located in different membrane regions were used to evaluate the effect of dopamine.HCl on the structural parameters (transbilayer lateral mobility, annular lipid fluidity, protein distribution, and thickness of the lipid bilayer) of synaptosomal plasma membrane vesicles (SPMV), which were obtained from the bovine cerebral cortex. An experimental procedure was used based on selective quenching of 1,3-di(1-pyrenyl)propane (Py-3-Py) by trinitrophenyl groups, and radiationless energy transfer from the tryptophan of membrane proteins to Py-3-Py and energy transfer from Py-3-Py monomers to 1-anilinonaphthalene-8-sulfonic acid (ANS) was also utilized. Dopamine.HCl increased both the bulk lateral mobility and annular lipid fluidity, and it had a greater fluidizing effect on the inner monolayer than on the outer monolayer. Furthermore, the drug had a clustering effect on membrane proteins.

Application of progesterone measurement for age and body weight at puberty, and postpartum anestrus in Korean native cattle

Studies were conducted in Korean native cattle to determine the age and body weight at puberty, and to determine the postpartum anestrus intervals based on plasma progesterone profiles, rectal palpation, ultrasonography and estrus observation. Korean native cattle reached puberty at 344 days of age and at 188 kg body weight as determined by plasma progesterone profiles, but estrous behavior was not detected until 3 months later, at a body weight of 215 kg. Prolonged postpartum anestrus occurred in 40% of smallholders cows, where animals were tethered and fed hay and rice straw, whereas its incidence was only 6.8% in a well managed herd that was grazed and housed. Plasma progesterone profiles were used to monitor ovarian activity postpartum in standard fed cows (n=44) and restricted fed cows (n=20). In standard fed cows 81.8% showed luteal activity by 50 days postpartum, compared to 55% in restricted fed cows. Approximately 40% of cows in both groups had shown observable estrous behavior by this time. This study indicates that one or more ovulations had occurred before pubertal heifers and postpartum cows showed overt estrous behavior. It was concluded that improved management and feeding practices should result in improved reproductive performance.

Ifosfamide nephrotoxicity in pediatric cancer patients

The renal functions in pediatric cancer patients who received ifosfamide (IFO) treatment were evaluated and the risk factors related to IFO nephrotoxicity were determined. The medical records of all children treated with IFO were reviewed, and 62 with normal renal function before IFO treatment were selected. Nephrotoxicity was diagnosed by measuring urine beta2-microglobulin and glucose, and serum phosphate, bicarbonate, and creatinine. Forty-eight (77.4%) had a history of previous cisplatin treatment. Nephrotoxicity was detected in 20 patients (32.3%). beta2-Microglobulinuria was observed in all 20, hypophosphatemia in 10 (16.1%), hypocarbia in 2 (3.2%), glucosuria in 5 (8.1%), and decreased creatinine clearance in 7 (11.3%). The cumulative dose of IFO and a history of previous cisplatin therapy were related to nephrotoxicity. Among the 20 patients with nephrotoxicity, the median cumulative dose of IFO in patients with a low (<500 mg/m2) and high (>500 mg/m2) cumulative dose of previous cisplatin was 80 g/m2 (73-102 g/m2) and 45 g/m2 (11-76 g/m2), respectively. Most of the nephrotoxicity persisted after cessation of IFO treatment. In conclusion, close monitoring of IFO nephrotoxicity should be started earlier in patients with high-dose cisplatin pretreatment. Tubular proteinuria, as indicated by beta2-microglobulinuria, was the most-sensitive marker for IFO nephrotoxicity. Long-term follow-up study for reversibility of IFO nephrotoxicity is in progress.

Molecular cloning and characterization of a dermatan-specific N-acetylgalactosamine 4-O-sulfotransferase

We have identified and characterized an N-acetylgalactosamine-4-O-sulfotransferase designated dermatan-4-sulfotransferase-1 (D4ST-1) (GenBank(TM) accession number AF401222) based on its homology to HNK-1 sulfotransferase. The cDNA predicts an open reading frame encoding a type II membrane protein of 376 amino acids with a 43-amino acid cytoplasmic domain and a 316-amino acid luminal domain containing two potential N-linked glycosylation sites. D4ST-1 has significant amino acid identity with HNK-1 sulfotransferase (21.4%), N-acetylgalactosamine-4-O-sulfotransferase 1 (GalNAc-4-ST1) (24.7%), N-acetylgalactosamine-4-O-sulfotransferase 2 (GalNAc-4-ST2) (21.0%), chondroitin-4-O-sulfotransferase 1 (27.3%), and chondroitin-4-O-sulfotransferase 2 (22.8%). D4ST-1 transfers sulfate to the C-4 hydroxyl of beta1,4-linked GalNAc that is substituted with an alpha-linked iduronic acid (IdoUA) at the C-3 hydroxyl. D4ST-1 shows a strong preference in vitro for sulfate transfer to IdoUAalpha1,3GalNAcbeta1,4 that is flanked by GlcUAbeta1,3GalNAcbeta1,4 as compared with IdoUAalpha1,3GalNAcbeta1,4 flanked by IdoUAalpha1,3GalNAcbeta1,4. The specificity of D4ST-1 when assayed in vitro suggests that the addition of sulfate to GalNAc occurs immediately after epimerization of GlcUA to IdoUA. The open reading frame of D4ST-1 is encoded by a single exon located on human chromosome 15q14. Northern blot analysis reveals a single 2.4-kilobase transcript. D4ST-1 message is expressed in virtually all tissues at some level but is most highly expressed in pituitary, placenta, uterus, and thyroid. The properties of D4ST-1 indicate that sulfation of the GalNAc moieties in dermatan is mediated by a distinct GalNAc-4-O-sulfotransferase and occurs following epimerization of GlcUA to IdoUA.

Molecular cloning and expression of an N-acetylgalactosamine-4-O-sulfotransferase that transfers sulfate to terminal and non-terminal beta 1,4-linked N-acetylgalactosamine

We have identified and characterized an N-acetylgalactosamine-4-O-sulfotransferase designated GalNAc-4-ST2 (GenBank(TM) accession number ) based on its homology to HNK-1 sulfotransferase (HNK-1 ST). The cDNA predicts an open reading frame encoding a type II membrane protein of 443 amino acids with a 12-amino acid cytoplasmic domain, a 23-amino acid transmembrane domain, and a 408-amino acid luminal domain containing four potential N-linked glycosylation sites. GalNAc-4-ST2 displays a high degree of amino acid sequence identity with GalNAc-4-ST1 (46%), HNK-1 ST (23%), chondroitin 4-O-sulfotransferase-1 (C4ST-1) (27%), and chondroitin 4-O-sulfotransferase-2 (C4ST-2) (24%). GalNAc-4-ST2 transfers sulfate to the C-4 hydroxyl of terminal beta1,4-linked GalNAc in the sequence GalNAc-beta1,4GlcNAcbeta-R found on N-linked oligosaccharides and nonterminal beta1,4-linked GalNAc in chondroitin and dermatan. The translated region of GalNAc-4-ST2 is encoded by five exons located on human chromosome 18q11.2. Northern blot analysis reveals a 2.1-kilobase transcript. GalNAc-4-ST2 message is most highly expressed in trachea and to a lesser extent in heart, liver, pancreas, salivary gland, and testis. The I.M.A.G.E. cDNA clone 49547 contains a putative GalNAc-4-ST2 splice form with an open reading frame encoding a protein of 358 amino acids that lacks the transmembrane domain and the stem region. This form of GalNAc-4-ST2 is not retained by transfected cells and is active against chondroitin but not terminal beta1,4-linked GalNAc. Thus, as with GalNAc-4-ST1, sequences N-terminal to the catalytic domain contribute to the specificity of GalNAc-4-ST2 toward terminal beta1,4-linked GalNAc.

Moderate dietary fat consumption as a risk factor for ischemic heart disease in a population with a low fat intake: a case-control study in Korean men

BACKGROUND

Dietary fat intake is associated with the incidence of ischemic heart disease (IHD) in Western countries. In populations in which both the average dietary fat consumption and the incidence of IHD are lower than in Western countries, the association of dietary fat intake with IHD incidence remains unknown.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a case-control study to examine the association of dietary fat with IHD incidence in Korean men.

DESIGN

The case group consisted of 108 patients with electrocardiogram-confirmed myocardial infarction or angiographically confirmed (> or =50% stenosis) IHD who were admitted to a university teaching hospital in Seoul, Republic of Korea. The controls were 142 age-matched patients admitted to the departments of ophthalmology and orthopedic surgery at the same hospital. Dietary fat intake was assessed by a nutritionist using a semiquantitative food-frequency questionnaire. Body mass index (BMI), cigarette use, alcohol intake, exercise, and history of disease were determined during an interview and examination.

RESULTS

In a univariate analysis, the mean percentages of energy from total fat, saturated fatty acids, and monounsaturated fatty acids were significantly higher in the cases than in the controls. BMI, smoking, and a history of hypertension were associated with the occurrence of IHD. In multiple logistic analyses, total fat intake was a significant risk factor (odds ratio: 1.08 for 1% of energy intake; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.14) after adjustment for BMI and smoking.

CONCLUSION

In a population with a relatively low fat intake (19% of energy intake), a moderate increase in total fat intake may be a risk factor for IHD.

Inhibition of basal and stimulated progesterone synthesis by dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene and methoxychlor in a stable pig granulosa cell line

The effects of the insecticide dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE) and methoxychlor in a stable pig granulosa cell line, JC-410, were investigated. The studies of DDE and methoxychlor were conducted in combination with studies of cholera toxin, the protein kinase A activator that stimulates cAMP and progesterone synthesis and gene expression of P450 cholesterol side chain cleavage (P450scc), which converts cholesterol to pregnenolone. Administration of DDE at 3000 and 10 000 ng ml (-1) was found to decrease progesterone synthesis 0.49- and 0.25-fold, respectively, and to block the stimulatory effect of 100 ng cholera toxin ml (-1), after 24 h incubation. At 1-100 ng ml (-1), methoxychlor did not affect progesterone synthesis after 48 h incubation. However, 1000 ng methoxychlor ml (-1) decreased progesterone synthesis 0.32-fold, and both 100 and 1000 ng methoxychlor ml (-1) blocked the stimulatory effect of cholera toxin. At 3000 and 10 000 ng ml(-1), DDE decreased cAMP synthesis 0.66-and 0.36-fold, respectively. At 300, 3000 and 10 000 ng ml (-1), DDE also decreased cholera toxin-stimulated cAMP synthesis 0.84-, 0.68-, and 0.52-fold, respectively. Administration of 1-100 ng methoxychlor ml (-1) did not affect basal or cholera toxin-stimulated cAMP synthesis. Cholera toxin increased P450scc mRNA 1.4-fold after 24 h incubation, while 3000 and 10 000 ng DDE ml (-1) led to 0.39- and 0.18-fold reductions, respectively. The stimulatory effect of cholera toxin on P450scc mRNA was blocked by 3000 and 10 000 ng DDE ml(-1). Cholera toxin increased P450scc mRNA 3.48-fold after 48 h incubation, while 100 and 1000 ng methoxychlor ml (-1) increased P450scc mRNA 1.79- and 3.0-fold, respectively, and further increased the stimulatory effect of cholera toxin 6.47- and 5.44-fold, respectively. The results of the present study indicate that DDE inhibits granulosa cell steroidogenesis by affecting cAMP production and P450scc gene expression. However, methoxychlor appears to inhibit steroidogenesis by a mechanism occurring before the conversion of cholesterol into pregnenolone.

Inhibition of basal and stimulated progesterone synthesis by dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene and methoxychlor in a stable pig granulosa cell line

The effects of the insecticide dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE) and methoxychlor in a stable pig granulosa cell line, JC-410, were investigated. The studies of DDE and methoxychlor were conducted in combination with studies of cholera toxin, the protein kinase A activator that stimulates cAMP and progesterone synthesis and gene expression of P450 cholesterol side chain cleavage (P450scc), which converts cholesterol to pregnenolone. Administration of DDE at 3000 and 10 000 ng ml (-1) was found to decrease progesterone synthesis 0.49- and 0.25-fold, respectively, and to block the stimulatory effect of 100 ng cholera toxin ml (-1), after 24 h incubation. At 1-100 ng ml (-1), methoxychlor did not affect progesterone synthesis after 48 h incubation. However, 1000 ng methoxychlor ml (-1) decreased progesterone synthesis 0.32-fold, and both 100 and 1000 ng methoxychlor ml (-1) blocked the stimulatory effect of cholera toxin. At 3000 and 10 000 ng ml(-1), DDE decreased cAMP synthesis 0.66-and 0.36-fold, respectively. At 300, 3000 and 10 000 ng ml (-1), DDE also decreased cholera toxin-stimulated cAMP synthesis 0.84-, 0.68-, and 0.52-fold, respectively. Administration of 1-100 ng methoxychlor ml (-1) did not affect basal or cholera toxin-stimulated cAMP synthesis. Cholera toxin increased P450scc mRNA 1.4-fold after 24 h incubation, while 3000 and 10 000 ng DDE ml (-1) led to 0.39- and 0.18-fold reductions, respectively. The stimulatory effect of cholera toxin on P450scc mRNA was blocked by 3000 and 10 000 ng DDE ml(-1). Cholera toxin increased P450scc mRNA 3.48-fold after 48 h incubation, while 100 and 1000 ng methoxychlor ml (-1) increased P450scc mRNA 1.79- and 3.0-fold, respectively, and further increased the stimulatory effect of cholera toxin 6.47- and 5.44-fold, respectively. The results of the present study indicate that DDE inhibits granulosa cell steroidogenesis by affecting cAMP production and P450scc gene expression. However, methoxychlor appears to inhibit steroidogenesis by a mechanism occurring before the conversion of cholesterol into pregnenolone.

Molecular cloning and expression of the pituitary glycoprotein hormone N-acetylgalactosamine-4-O-sulfotransferase

N-Linked oligosaccharides terminating with the sequence SO(4)-4-GalNAcbeta1,4GlcNAcbeta1,2Manalpha are present on the pituitary hormones lutropin (LH), thyrotropin, and pro-opiomelanocortin. The sulfated structures on LH are essential for expression of its biologic function in vivo. We have cloned the N-acetylgalactosamine-4-sulfotransferase (GalNAc-4-ST1, GenBank(TM) accession number ), which mediates sulfate addition to the N-linked oligosaccharides on LH and other pituitary glycoproteins with terminal (beta1,4-linked GalNAc based on its homology to HNK-1 sulfotransferase (HNK-1 ST). GalNAc-4-ST1 displays 23% identity to HNK-1 ST and 28% to chondroitin 4-sulfotransferase 1 (C4ST-1) and 26% to chondroitin 4-sulfotransferase 2 (C4ST-2). The cDNA predicts a type II transmembrane protein of 424 amino acids with four potential N-linked glycosylation sites and a single membrane-spanning domain. GalNAc-4-ST1 has putative 5'-phosphosulfonate and 3'-phosphate binding sites. Three more carboxyl-terminal regions of unknown function also show a high degree of identity with HNK-1 ST, C4ST-1, and C4ST-2. The membrane-bound form of GalNAc-4-ST1 transfers sulfate to GalNAcbeta1, 4GlcNAcbeta-R but not to chondroitin, whereas truncated forms of GalNAc-4-ST1 that are released into the medium transfer sulfate to both GalNAcbeta1,4GlcNAcbeta-R and chondroitin. The first 118 amino acids of GalNAc-4-ST1 appear to contribute to both its activity and specificity for terminal beta1,4-linked GalNAc. GalNAc-4-ST1 also efficiently transfers sulfate to N-linked oligosaccharides on native LH and other glycoproteins terminating with beta1,4-linked GalNAc. A single transcript of 2.4 kilobases is most highly expressed in the pituitary and other regions of the central nervous system. The GalNAc-4-ST1 gene is located on human chromosome 19q13.1.