Prognostic impact of MRI-derived feature tracking myocardial strain in patients with non-ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

To evaluate the clinical utility of feature tracking (FT)-derived myocardial strain in patients with non-ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NIDCM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Electronic database searches of PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, Cochrane advanced search, and EMBASE were performed. Studies on NIDCM were divided into categories according to left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF; <30%, 30-40%, >40%), and correlations between strains and prevalence of late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) were evaluated by weighted correlation coefficients. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) hazard ratios were also integrated for prediction of future adverse events.

RESULTS

The present meta-analysis analysed data from 5,767 patients with NIDCM from 30 eligible studies. GLS and global circumferential strain significantly differed across the three LVEF categories (all p<0.05); however, global radial strain did not. Only GLS showed a strong correlation with the prevalence of LGE (Spearman's correlation coefficient = 0.61). The pooled HR of GLS for predicting adverse events was 1.15 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07-1.23, p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

In this meta-analysis, FT-derived GLS was strongly correlated with myocardial fibrosis and was an important predictor of future adverse events. These results suggest that FT-derived GLS may be useful in the pathological evaluation and risk stratification of NIDCM.

Profiles of central nervous system surgical site infections in endoscopic transnasal surgery exposing the intradural space

OBJECTIVE

Despite its efficacy and minimal invasiveness, the clean-contaminated nature of endoscopic transnasal surgery (ETS) may be susceptible to central nervous system surgical site infections (CNS-SSIs), especially when involving intradural exposure. However, the profiles of ETS-associated CNS-SSIs are not fully elucidated.

METHODS

The institutional ETS cases performed between May 2017 and March 2023 were retrospectively analysed. The incidences of CNS-SSIs were calculated, and their risk factors examined.

RESULTS

The incidence of CNS-SSIs was 2.3% (7/305) in the entire cohort and 5.0% (7/140) in ETSs with intradural exposure. All the CNS-SSIs were meningitis and developed following ETS with intradural exposure. The incidences were 0%, 5.6% and 5.8% in ETSs with Esposito grade 1, 2 and 3 intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid leakage, respectively. Among the pre- and intra-operative factors, body mass index (unit odds ratio (OR), 0.62; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.44-0.89; P<0.01), serum albumin (unit OR, 0.03; 95% CI, 0.0007-0.92; P=0.02), and American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status score (unit OR, 20.7; 95% CI, 1.65-259; P<0.01) were significantly associated with CNS-SSIs. Moreover, postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leakage was also significantly associated with CNS-SSIs (OR, 18.4; 95% CI, 3.55-95.0; P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of ETS-associated CNS-SSIs is acceptably low. Intradural exposure was a prerequisite for CNS-SSIs. Malnutrition and poor comorbidity status should be recognized as important risks for CNS-SSIs in ETS.

Investigation of orthognathic surgery indicators-combination with index of orthognathic functional treatment needs (IOFTN) and maxillofacial morphometric analysis

PURPOSE

The aim of this retrospective study was to determine orthognathic surgery indicators for Japanese patients with jaw deformities using both Index of Orthognathic Functional Treatment Needs (IOFTN) and maxillofacial morphometric analysis.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The subjects were 89 patients treated with orthognathic surgery and 92 patients treated with orthodontic treatment alone, and were classified as class I, II, or III according to the ANB angle. Based on the results for IOFTN and the results of cephalometric analysis, the indication criteria for orthognathic surgery were examined.

RESULTS

In IOFTN analysis, none of patients in the orthognathic surgery group were classified as category 1 or 2, while 48% of the patients in the orthodontic treatment group were classified as category 4 or 5. The results of the cephalometric analysis of patients in classified categories 4 and 5 showed that the orthognathic surgery group had significantly greater lateral mandibular deviation in Class I cases, significantly more severe degree of mandibular retrusion in Class II cases, and significantly more severe degree of mandibular prognathism in Class III cases. The results of the logistic regression analysis showed that IOFTN was a common variable as an indication criterion for orthognathic surgery, and several different variables were also selected from the cephalometric measurements in each group.

CONCLUSION

IOFTN is a highly sensitive and useful indicator as a criterion for orthognathic surgery. However, in the choice of treatment strategy, maxillofacial morphometric analyses and the patient's desired goal are important.

Evaluation of oral health-related quality of life in patients with temporomandibular disorders

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs).

METHODS

Subjects included 56 patients diagnosed with TMD. Control subjects consisted of 30 individuals without temporomandibular joint symptoms. OHRQoL was evaluated using the Japanese version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-J54) before and 4 months after treatment.

RESULTS

Total score and all subscale scores of the OHIP-J54 in patients before treatment were significantly higher than those of the control subjects and were significantly improved after treatment, except for social disability. Gender and NRS pain scores had statistically significant effects on OHRQoL, which was low in females and patients with severe pain.

CONCLUSION

OHIP-J54 appeared to be useful for understanding psychological and social problems as a screening tool and for assessing the extent of changes in the well-being of patients with TMD.

Dispensable role of Rac1 and Rac3 after cochlear hair cell specification

Rac small GTPases play important roles during embryonic development of the inner ear; however, little is known regarding their function in cochlear hair cells (HCs) after specification. Here, we revealed the localization and activation of Racs in cochlear HCs using GFP-tagged Rac plasmids and transgenic mice expressing a Rac1-fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) biosensor. Furthermore, we employed Rac1-knockout (Rac1-KO, Atoh1-Cre;Rac1flox/flox) and Rac1 and Rac3 double KO (Rac1/Rac3-DKO, Atoh1-Cre;Rac1flox/flox;Rac3-/-) mice, under the control of the Atoh1 promoter. However, both Rac1-KO and Rac1/Rac3-DKO mice exhibited normal cochlear HC morphology at 13 weeks of age and normal hearing function at 24 weeks of age. No hearing vulnerability was observed in young adult (6-week-old) Rac1/Rac3-DKO mice even after intense noise exposure. Consistent with prior reports, the results from Atoh1-Cre;tdTomato mice confirmed that the Atoh1 promoter became functional only after embryonic day 14 when the sensory HC precursors exit the cell cycle. Taken together, these findings indicate that although Rac1 and Rac3 contribute to the early development of sensory epithelia in cochleae, as previously shown, they are dispensable for the maturation of cochlear HCs in the postmitotic state or for hearing maintenance following HC maturation. KEY MESSAGES: Mice with Rac1 and Rac3 deletion were generated after HC specification. Knockout mice exhibit normal cochlear hair cell morphology and hearing. Racs are dispensable for hair cells in the postmitotic state after specification. Racs are dispensable for hearing maintenance after HC maturation.

Measurement of Direct-Photon Cross Section and Double-Helicity Asymmetry at sqrt[s]=510 GeV in p[over →]+p[over →] Collisions

We present measurements of the cross section and double-helicity asymmetry A_{LL} of direct-photon production in p[over →]+p[over →] collisions at sqrt[s]=510  GeV. The measurements have been performed at midrapidity (|η|<0.25) with the PHENIX detector at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider. At relativistic energies, direct photons are dominantly produced from the initial quark-gluon hard scattering and do not interact via the strong force at leading order. Therefore, at sqrt[s]=510  GeV, where leading-order-effects dominate, these measurements provide clean and direct access to the gluon helicity in the polarized proton in the gluon-momentum-fraction range 0.02<x<0.08, with direct sensitivity to the sign of the gluon contribution.

Mass producible, robust SERS substrates based on metal film on nanosphere (MFON) on an adhesive substrate for detection of surface-adsorbed molecules and their evaluation by helium ion microscopy

We have developed a SERS stamp that can be pressed directly onto a solid surface for characterization of surface-adsorbed target molecules. The stamp was fabricated by transfer of a dense monolayer of SiO₂ nanospheres from a glass surface onto a piece of adhesive tape and subsequent evaporation of silver. The performance of the resulting SERS stamps was evaluated by their exposure to methyl mercaptan vapor, and immersion in rhodamine 6G and ferbam solutions. It was found that beside the nanosphere diameter and metal deposition thickness, the extent of burial of the nanospheres into the adhesive tape, dictated by the pressure during the nanosphere transfer process, had a significant effect. We carried out FDTD calculations of the near field. Models are based on morphological information obtained from helium ion microscopy, which can provide high-resolution images of poor electrical conductors such as our SERS stamp. While one of our main eventual goals is detection of pesticides on agricultural produce, we have begun to take a careful step by testing our SERS stamp on better characterized surfaces such as a porous gel surface, having been immersed in fungicides such as ferbam. We also present our preliminary results with ferbam on oranges. It is expected that our well-characterized SERS stamp will play a role in shedding light on the poorly studied transfer process of target molecules onto a SERS surface as well as serving as a new SERS platform.

Changes in nutritional status of patients with jaw deformities due to orthognathic surgery

OBJECTIVE

In orthognathic surgery, it is important to carefully manage peri-operative nutrition because maxillomandibular fixation and problems such as swelling and pain after surgery may make it difficult to eat normally and may prevent adequate nutrition. This study investigated the changes in nutritional status of patients with jaw deformities due to orthognathic surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

The subjects were 155 jaw deformity patients, who underwent orthognathic surgery. The nutritional status was evaluated using anthropometry immediately before and 10 days after surgery and clinical laboratory results and the controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score before surgery and immediately, 1 week and >6 months after surgery. We investigated the relationship among the nutritional status, surgical procedures, and dietary intake in patients who underwent orthognathic surgery.

RESULTS

The surgical procedure time and amount of bleeding were significantly greater as the surgical procedure became more complex. All of the laboratory values and CONUT scores were significantly decreased immediately after surgery and then increased over time, recovering to the same level as before surgery except for serum albumin at >6 months after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Nutritional management is considered as one of the key factors for the better and faster recovery after the orthognathic surgery.

S-Palmitoylation of Tyrosinase at Cysteine500 Regulates Melanogenesis

Palmitoylation is a lipid modification involving the attachment of palmitic acid to a cysteine residue, thereby affecting protein function. We investigated the effect of palmitoylation of tyrosinase, the rate-limiting enzyme in melanin synthesis, using a human three-dimensional skin model system and melanocyte culture. The palmitoylation inhibitor, 2-bromopalmitate, increased melanin content and tyrosinase protein levels in melanogenic cells by suppressing tyrosinase degradation. The palmitoylation site was Cysteine⁵⁰⁰ in the C-terminal cytoplasmic tail of tyrosinase. The nonpalmitoylatable mutant, tyrosinase (C500A), was slowly degraded and less ubiquitinated than wild-type tyrosinase. Screening for the Asp-His-His-Cys (DHHC) family of proteins for tyrosinase palmitoylation suggested that DHHC2, 3, 7, and 15 are involved in tyrosinase palmitoylation. Knockdown of DHHC2, 3, or 15 increased tyrosinase protein levels and melanin content. Determination of their subcellular localization in primary melanocytes revealed that DHHC2, 3, and 15 were localized in the endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and/or melanosomes, whereas only DHHC2 was localized in the melanosomes. Immunoprecipitation showed that DHHC2 and DHHC3 predominantly bind to mature and immature tyrosinase, respectively. Taken together, tyrosinase palmitoylation at Cysteine⁵⁰⁰ by DHHC2, 3, and/or 15, especially DHHC2 in trans-Golgi apparatus and melanosomes and DHHC3 in the endoplasmic reticulum and cis-Golgi apparatus, regulate melanogenesis by modulating tyrosinase protein levels.

Cell migration is impaired in XPA-deficient cells

Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a hereditary disorder characterized by photosensitivity, predisposition to skin cancers, and neurological abnormalities including microcephaly and progressive neurodegeneration. A lack of nucleotide excision repair (NER) in patients with XP can cause hypersensitivity to the sun, leading to skin cancer, whereas the etiology of the neuronal symptoms of XP remains ambiguous. There are various neurological disorders that perturb neuronal migration, causing mislocalization and disorganization of the cortical lamination. Here, we investigated the role of the XP group-A (Xpa) gene in directed cell migration. First, we adopted an in utero electroporation method to transduce shRNA vectors into the murine embryonic cerebral cortex for the in vivo knockdown of Xpa. Xpa-knockdown neurons in the embryonic cerebral cortex showed abnormal cell migration, cell cycle exit, and differentiation. The genotype-phenotype relationship between the lack of XPA and cell migration abnormalities was confirmed using both a scratch assay and time-lapse microscopy in XP-A patient-derived fibroblasts. Unlike healthy cells, these cells showed impairment in overall mobility and the direction of motility. Therefore, abnormal cell migration may explain neural tissue abnormalities in patients with XP-A.

Hemodynamic Analysis of Cerebral AVMs with 3D Phase-Contrast MR Imaging

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The hemodynamics associated with cerebral AVMs have a significant impact on their clinical presentation. This study aimed to evaluate the hemodynamic features of AVMs using 3D phase-contrast MR imaging with dual velocity-encodings.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-two patients with supratentorial AVMs who had not received any previous treatment and had undergone 3D phase-contrast MR imaging were included in this study. The nidus diameter and volume were measured for classification of AVMs (small, medium, or large). Flow parameters measured included apparent AVM inflow, AVM inflow index, apparent AVM outflow, AVM outflow index, and the apparent AVM inflow-to-outflow ratio. Correlation coefficients between the nidus volume and each flow were calculated. The flow parameters between small and other AVMs as well as between nonhemorrhagic and hemorrhagic AVMs were compared.

RESULTS

Patients were divided into hemorrhagic (n = 8) and nonhemorrhagic (n = 24) groups. The correlation coefficient between the nidus volume and the apparent AVM inflow and outflow was .83. The apparent AVM inflow and outflow in small AVMs were significantly smaller than in medium AVMs (P < .001 for both groups). The apparent AVM inflow-to-outflow ratio was significantly larger in the hemorrhagic AVMs than in the nonhemorrhagic AVMs (P = .02).

CONCLUSIONS

The apparent AVM inflow-to-outflow ratio was the only significant parameter that differed between nonhemorrhagic and hemorrhagic AVMs, suggesting that a poor drainage system may increase AVM pressure, potentially causing cerebral hemorrhage.

Nox3-Derived Superoxide in Cochleae Induces Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by NADPH oxidases (Nox) contribute to the development of different types of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), a common impairment in humans with no established treatment. Although the essential role of Nox3 in otoconia biosynthesis and its possible involvement in hearing have been reported in rodents, immunohistological methods targeted at detecting Nox3 expression in inner ear cells reveal ambiguous results. Therefore, the mechanism underlying Nox3-dependent SNHL remains unclear and warrants further investigation. We generated Nox3-Cre knock-in mice, in which Nox3 was replaced with Cre recombinase (Cre). Using Nox3-Cre;tdTomato mice of either sex, in which tdTomato is expressed under the control of the Nox3 promoter, we determined Nox3-expressing regions and cell types in the inner ear. Nox3-expressing cells in the cochlea included various types of supporting cells, outer hair cells, inner hair cells, and spiral ganglion neurons. Nox3 expression increased with cisplatin, age, and noise insults. Moreover, increased Nox3 expression in supporting cells and outer hair cells, especially at the basal turn of the cochlea, played essential roles in ROS-related SNHL. The extent of Nox3 involvement in SNHL follows the following order: cisplatin-induced hearing loss > age-related hearing loss > noise-induced hearing loss. Here, on the basis of Nox3-Cre;tdTomato, which can be used as a reporter system (Nox3-Cre+/-;tdTomato+/+ and Nox3-Cre+/+;tdTomato+/+), and Nox3-KO (Nox3-Cre+/+;tdTomato+/+) mice, we demonstrate that Nox3 inhibition in the cochlea is a promising strategy for ROS-related SNHL, such as cisplatin-induced HL, age-related HL, and noise-induced HL.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT We found Nox3-expressing regions and cell types in the inner ear, especially in the cochlea, using Nox3-Cre;tdTomato mice, a reporter system generated in this study. Nox3 expression increased with cisplatin, age, and noise insults in specific cell types in the cochlea and resulted in the loss (apoptosis) of outer hair cells. Thus, Nox3 might serve as a molecular target for the development of therapeutics for sensorineural hearing loss, particularly cisplatin-induced, age-related, and noise-induced hearing loss.

Conditioned medium from mesenchymal stem cells improves condylar resorption induced by mandibular distraction osteogenesis in a rat model

Condylar resorption (CR) after surgical orthognathic treatment is defined as dysfunctional remodeling of the temporomandibular joint manifested by morphological changes with decreased condylar head volume that cause occlusal and esthetic changes. Although both conservative and surgical treatment strategies have been employed for the treatment of CR, effective procedures have not been established till date. In this study, the effects of MSC-CM on CR were investigated. Bone marrow-derived MSCs of rats (rMSCs) were cultured until 80% confluent, cultured in serum-free conditioned medium for 48 h; the collected medium was defined as MSC-CM. Osteogenesis, chondrogenesis, and angiogenesis-related gene expression in rMSCs cultured with MSC-CM was evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. A rat CR model was used for animal studies, in which CR occurred after mandibular distraction osteogenesis for 10 days. MSC-CM was injected via the tail vein and quantitative and qualitative evaluations were performed by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and histology.

MSC-CM enhanced osteogenesis-, chondrogenesis-, and angiogenesis-related gene expression in rMSCs. Micro-CT showed CR in control groups; however, it was observed to be improved in the MSC-CM group. Histologically, an enlarged cartilage layer was seen in the MSC-CM group, while cartilage layers had almost thinned or disappeared in control groups. These results indicate that MSC-CM improved CR.

Hypothermic preservation of rat hearts using antifreeze glycoprotein

Antifreeze proteins are an effective additive for low-temperature preservation of solid organs. Here, we compared static hypothermic preservation with and without antifreeze glycoprotein (AFGP), followed by nonfreezing cryopreservation of rat hearts. The heart was surgically extracted and immersed in one of the cardioplegia solutions after cardiac arrest. Control rat hearts (n=6) were immersed in University of Wisconsin (UW) solution whereas AFGP-treated hearts (AFGP group) (n=6) were immersed in UW solution containing 500 ?g/ml AFGP. After static hypothermic preservation, a Langendorff apparatus was used to reperfuse the coronary arteries with oxygenated Krebs-Henseleit solution. After 30, 60, 90, and 120 min, the heart rate (HR), coronary flow (CF), cardiac contractile force (max dP/dt), and cardiac diastolic force (min dP/dt) were measured. Tissue water content (TWC) and tissue adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels in the reperfused preserved hearts were also assessed. All the parameters were compared between the control and AFGP groups. Compared with the control group, the AFGP group had significantly (p<0.05) higher values of the following parameters: HR at 60, 90, and 120 min; CF at all four time points; max dP/dt at 90 min; min dP/dt at 90 and 120 min; and tissue ATP levels at 120 min. TWC did not differ significantly between the groups. The higher HR, CF, max dP/dt, min dP/dt, and tissue ATP levels in the AFGP compared with those in control hearts suggested that AFGP conferred superior hemodynamic and metabolic functions. Thus, AFGP might be a useful additive for the static/nonfreezing hypothermic preservation of hearts.

Erratum: Evolution of π^{0} Suppression in Au+Au Collisions from sqrt[s_{NN}]=39 to 200 GeV [Phys. Rev. Lett. 109, 152301 (2012)]

This corrects the article DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.109.152301.

Mass Spectrometric Characterization of the Partial Oxidation Process of a Gasoline Surrogate Induced by a Dielectric Barrier Discharge

Plasma-assisted combustion can improve the thermal efficiency and stability of internal combustion engines; based on this, among various types of discharge method, surface dielectric barrier discharge (SDBD) induced partial oxidation of hydrocarbons was investigated in this study. To demonstrate the general mechanisms of SDBD-induced partial oxidation of gasoline, we used a five-component gasoline surrogate (S5R), which consisted of a mixture of alkanes (isooctane, n-heptane, and methylcyclohexane), alkenes (trimethyl pentene isomers), and toluene, as the model. The detailed process of SDBD-induced partial oxidation of hydrocarbon was investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ion attachment mass spectrometry, and density functional theory calculation. SDBD irradiation of the hydrocarbon/air mixture induced dissociation of oxygen molecule through direct electron impact and collision with excited nitrogen molecules, and the resultant oxygen atom then reacted with a hydrocarbon molecule. Alkane and toluene were converted to alkyl hydroperoxide by a reaction with the oxygen atom and subsequent attachment of O₂. The resultant alkyl hydroperoxide then provided a ketone and/or aldehyde. In contrast, the alkenes underwent attachment of an oxygen atom and were either converted to fragments containing a carbonyl group or to etoposide. Regarding the analytical method, the partially oxidized products were selectively ionized from the hydrocarbon/air mixture when Na⁺ was used as the reagent ion for ion attachment mass spectrometry.

mTORC1 is involved in DGKβ-induced neurite outgrowth and spinogenesis

Diacylglycerol kinase β (DGKβ) is an enzyme converting DG to phosphatidic acid (PA) and is specifically expressed in neurons, especially those in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus and striatum. We previously reported that DGKβ induces neurite outgrowth and spinogenesis, contributing to higher brain function including emotion and memory, and plasma membrane localization of DGKβ via the C1 domain and a cluster of basic amino acids at the C-terminus is necessary for its function. To clarify the mechanisms involved in neuronal development by DGKβ, we investigated whether DGKβ activity induces neurite outgrowth using human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. DGKβ induced neurite outgrowth by activation of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) through a kinase-dependent pathway. In addition, in primary cultured cortical and hippocampal neurons, inhibition of mTORC1 abolished DGKβ induced-neurite outgrowth, branching and spinogenesis. These results indicated that DGKβ induces neurite outgrowth and spinogenesis by activating mTORC1 in a kinase-dependent pathway.

Bacterial co-infection and early mortality among pulmonary tuberculosis patients in Manila, The Philippines

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence of bacterial co-infection and its effect on early mortality among hospitalised human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) negative pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) patients in Manila, the Philippines.

DESIGN

A prospective observational study was conducted at a national infectious disease hospital. HIV-negative PTB patients aged 13 years hospitalised from November to December 2011 and from December 2012 to May 2013 were enrolled. Sputum samples were tested for Mycobacterium tuberculosis and six respiratory bacterial pathogens using polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

RESULTS

Of 466 patients, 228 (48.9%) were TB-PCR-positive. Overall, bacterial pathogens in purulent sputum were detected in 135 (29.0%) patients: Haemophilus influenzae was the most common bacterium (21.2%), followed by Streptococcus pneumoniae (7.9%). The prevalence of bacterial co-infection did not differ between TB-PCR-positive and -negative patients. A total of 92 (19.7%) patients died within 2 weeks. Bacterial co-infection was significantly associated with an increased risk of 2-week mortality among TB-PCR-positive patients (adjusted risk ratio [aRR] 1.67, 95%CI 1.03-2.72). This association was also observed but did not reach statistical significance among TB-PCR-negative patients (aRR1.7, 95%CI 0.95-3.02).

CONCLUSION

Bacterial co-infection is common and contributes to an increased risk of early mortality among HIV-negative PTB patients.

Intratumoural immune cell landscape in germinoma reveals multipotent lineages and exhibits prognostic significance

AIMS

Alterations in microenvironments are a hallmark of cancer, and these alterations in germinomas are of particular significance. Germinoma, the most common subtype of central nervous system germ cell tumours, often exhibits massive immune cell infiltration intermingled with tumour cells. The role of these immune cells in germinoma, however, remains unknown.

METHODS

We investigated the cellular constituents of immune microenvironments and their clinical impacts on prognosis in 100 germinoma cases.

RESULTS

Patients with germinomas lower in tumour cell content (i.e. higher immune cell infiltration) had a significantly longer progression-free survival time than those with higher tumour cell contents (P = 0.03). Transcriptome analyses and RNA in-situ hybridization indicated that infiltrating immune cells comprised a wide variety of cell types, including lymphocytes and myelocyte-lineage cells. High expression of CD4 was significantly associated with good prognosis, whereas elevated nitric oxide synthase 2 was associated with poor prognosis. PD1 (PDCD1) was expressed by immune cells present in most germinomas (93.8%), and PD-L1 (CD274) expression was found in tumour cells in the majority of germinomas examined (73.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

The collective data strongly suggest that infiltrating immune cells play an important role in predicting treatment response. Further investigation should lead to additional categorization of germinoma to safely reduce treatment intensity depending on tumour/immune cell balance and to develop possible future immunotherapies.

Rac-Dependent Signaling from Keratinocytes Promotes Differentiation of Intradermal White Adipocytes

Rac signaling affects numerous downstream targets in vitro; however, few studies have established in vivo levels. We generated mice with a single knockout (KO) of Rac1 (Keratin5(K5)-Cre;Rac1^flox/flox, Rac1-KO) and double KO of Rac1 and Rac3 (K5-Cre;Rac1^flox/flox;Rac3^-/-, Rac1/Rac3-DKO) in keratinocytes. The hairless phenotype in Rac1-KO mice was markedly exacerbated in Rac1/Rac3-DKO mice. Strikingly, Rac1-KO mice exhibited thinner dermal white adipose tissue, which was considerably further reduced in Rac1/Rac3-DKO mice. DNA microarray using primary keratinocytes from Rac1/Rac3-DKO mice exhibited decreased mRNA levels of Bmp2, Bmp5, Fgf20, Fgf21, Fgfbp1, and Pdgfα. Combinational treatment with bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) 2 and fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 21 in culture medium, but not individual purified recombinant proteins, could differentiate 3T3-L1 fibroblasts into adipocytes, as could culture media from primary keratinocytes. Conversely, addition of anti-BMP2 or anti-FGF21 antibodies into the culture medium inhibited fibroblast differentiation. In addition, BMP2 and FGF21 treatment promoted adipocyte differentiation only of rat primary white adipocyte precursors but not rat primary brown adipocyte precursors. Furthermore, BMP2 and FGF21 treatment enhanced adipogenesis of normal human dermal fibroblasts. Notably, brown adipogenesis promoted by FGF21 was inhibited by BMP2. Thus, we propose a complex paracrine pathway from keratinocytes to intradermal pre-adipocytes, which functions as a Rac-dependent modulator of both white and brown adipogenesis.

Beam Energy and Centrality Dependence of Direct-Photon Emission from Ultrarelativistic Heavy-Ion Collisions

The PHENIX collaboration presents first measurements of low-momentum (0.4<p_{T}<3  GeV/c) direct-photon yields from Au+Au collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=39 and 62.4 GeV. For both beam energies the direct-photon yields are substantially enhanced with respect to expectations from prompt processes, similar to the yields observed in Au+Au collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=200. Analyzing the photon yield as a function of the experimental observable dN_{ch}/dη reveals that the low-momentum (>1  GeV/c) direct-photon yield dN_{γ}^{dir}/dη is a smooth function of dN_{ch}/dη and can be well described as proportional to (dN_{ch}/dη)^{α} with α≈1.25. This scaling behavior holds for a wide range of beam energies at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider and the Large Hadron Collider, for centrality selected samples, as well as for different A+A collision systems. At a given beam energy, the scaling also holds for high p_{T} (>5  GeV/c), but when results from different collision energies are compared, an additional sqrt[s_{NN}]-dependent multiplicative factor is needed to describe the integrated-direct-photon yield.

Basic evaluation of a novel 4D target and human body phantom

Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is usually verified with a dynamic phantom or solid phantom, but there is a demand for phantoms that can accurately simulate tumor dynamics within an individual that would allow customized validation in every patient. We developed a new 4D dynamic target phantom (multi-cell 4D phantom) that allows simulation of tumor movement in patients. The basic quality and dynamic reproducibility of this new phantom was verified in this investigation. The newly developed multi-cell 4D phantom comprises four main components: soft tissue, bones, lungs, and tumor (target). The phantom structure was based on computed tomography (CT) data of a male. In this study, we investigated the basic performance of a multi-cell 4D phantom. All the CT numbers of the phantom were very close to those of human data. The geometric maximum amplitudes were 4.57 mm in the lateral direction, 4.59 mm in the ventrodorsal direction, and 3.68 mm in the cranio-caudal direction. Geometric errors were 0.84, 0.58, and 0.40 mm, respectively. Movements of the abdominal surface were stable for 60 s. Repeated measurements show no actual differences in target movements between multiple measurements and indicated high reproducibility (r  >  0.97). End-to-end tests using Gafchromic film revealed a gamma pass rate of 98% or above (2 mm/3%). Although our phantom performed limited reproducibility in the movement of the patient tumor at present, a satisfactory level of precision was confirmed in general. This is a very promising device for use in the verification of radiation therapy for moving targets.

New precise measurements of muonium hyperfine structure at J-PARC MUSE

High precision measurements of the ground state hyperfine structure (HFS) of muonium is a stringent tool for testing bound-state quantum electrodynamics (QED) theory, determining fundamental constants of the muon magnetic moment and mass, and searches for new physics. Muonium is the most suitable system to test QED because both theoretical and experimental values can be precisely determined. Previous measurements were performed decades ago at LAMPF with uncertainties mostly dominated by statistical errors. At the J-PARC Muon Science Facility (MUSE), the MuSEUM collaboration is planning complementary measurements of muonium HFS both at zero and high magnetic field. The new high-intensity muon beam that will soon be available at H-Line will provide an opportunity to improve the precision of these measurements by one order of magnitude. An overview of the different aspects of these new muonium HFS measurements, the current status of the preparation for high-field measurements, and the latest results at zero field are presented.

Differential S-palmitoylation of the human and rodent β3-adrenergic receptors

With few reported exceptions, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are modified by Cys palmitoylation (S-palmitoylation). In multiple GPCRs, S-palmitoylation targets a canonical site within the C-terminal cytoplasmic tail adjacent to the C terminus of the seventh transmembrane domain, but modification of additional sites is exemplified by the β-adrenergic receptors (βARs). The β₁AR is S-palmitoylated at a second, more distal site within the C-terminal tail, and the β₂AR is modified at a second site within the third intracellular loop, neither of which is conserved in other βAR isoforms. The functional roles of S-palmitoylation of disparate sites are incompletely characterized for any GPCR family. Here, we describe S-palmitoylation of the β₃AR. We compared mouse and human β₃ARs and found that both were S-palmitoylated at the canonical site within the C-terminal tail, Cys-358 and Cys-361/363 in mouse and human β₃ARs, respectively. Surprisingly, the human β₃AR was S-palmitoylated at two additional sites, Cys-153 and Cys-292 within the second and third intracellular loops, respectively. Cys-153 is apparently unique to the human β₃AR, and Cys-292 is conserved primarily in primates. Mutational substitution of C-tail Cys in human but not mouse β₃ARs resulted in diminished ligand-induced cAMP production. Substitution of Cys-153, Cys-292, or Cys-361/363 within the human β₃AR diminished membrane-receptor abundance, but only Cys-361/363 substitution diminished membrane-receptor half-life. Thus, S-palmitoylation of different sites differentially regulates the human β₃AR, and differential S-palmitoylation distinguishes human and rodent β₃ARs, potentially contributing to species-specific differences in the clinical efficacy of β₃AR-directed pharmacological approaches to disease.

Pseudorapidity Dependence of Particle Production and Elliptic Flow in Asymmetric Nuclear Collisions of p+Al, p+Au, d+Au, and ^{3}He+Au at sqrt[s_{NN}]=200 GeV

Asymmetric nuclear collisions of p+Al, p+Au, d+Au, and ^{3}He+Au at sqrt[s_{NN}]=200  GeV provide an excellent laboratory for understanding particle production, as well as exploring interactions among these particles after their initial creation in the collision. We present measurements of charged hadron production dN_{ch}/dη in all such collision systems over a broad pseudorapidity range and as a function of collision multiplicity. A simple wounded quark model is remarkably successful at describing the full data set. We also measure the elliptic flow v_{2} over a similarly broad pseudorapidity range. These measurements provide key constraints on models of particle emission and their translation into flow.

Vertical distraction osteogenesis of a reconstructed mandible with a free vascularized fibula flap: a report of two cases

Background

The free vascularized fibula flap presents many advantages such as sufficient length of the bony segment, good vascularization, better quality of the bone, and a long vascular pedicle, but it is also associated with some disadvantages with regard to prosthetic rehabilitation because of its limited height. Improvement in bone height is necessary for ideal dental implant treatment of reconstructed mandibles.

Case presentation

For two squamous cell carcinoma patients, mandibular bone reconstruction was performed secondarily with the peroneal flap after tumor resection. Since the bone height was insufficient at the time of implant treatment, occlusion reconstruction by dental implant was performed after vertical distraction osteogenesis.

Conclusions

Vertical distraction osteogenesis is a suitable treatment option for alveolar ridge deficiency resulting from fibula transplantation for mandibular reconstruction following tumor surgery.

Cluster ion beam generation from a wetted needle emitter for organic secondary ion mass spectrometry (organic SIMS) using a protic ionic liquid, propylammonium nitrate

RATIONALE

Propylammonium nitrate (PAN, [C₃ H₇ NH₃ ][NO₃ ]), a protic ionic liquid, has an active proton in its molecular structure, so that it can promote protonation. In addition, PAN has high aggregability, so that it tends to form large aggregated (or cluster) ions. These features will be desirable for cluster ion beams in secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) of organic materials. The aggregability may enable us to generate a cluster ion beam from a needle tip wetted with PAN by electrospray in vacuum. For these reasons, cluster ion beam generation was investigated using an externally wetted needle emitter.

METHODS

A sharpened glass rod was used as a needle emitter. PAN was electrosprayed in vacuum using the needle emitter to generate a cluster ion beam. Beam characteristics were investigated with an apparatus for measuring transient responses of a beam current. SIMS experiments were also performed using the cluster ion beam as a primary ion beam; arginine and polyethylene glycol (PEG300) were analyzed.

RESULTS

A stable cluster ion beam was generated from the needle emitter wetted with PAN. The ion beam consisted of mixed cluster ions whose m/z ranged from about 180 to 5000 or higher. The cluster ion beam successfully produced protonated molecules [M + H]⁺ (M denotes arginine and PEG molecules) with relatively little fragmentation. Adduct ions [M + C₃ H₇ NH₃ ]⁺ formed by propylammonium-attachment reaction were also detected for PEG.

CONCLUSIONS

It has been demonstrated that a needle emitter wetted with PAN can generate a cluster ion beam that includes massive cluster ions. The cluster ion beam proved to be helpful in producing molecular secondary ions and suitable for a primary ion beam in organic SIMS.

Lrp4/Wise regulates palatal rugae development through Turing-type reaction-diffusion mechanisms

Periodic patterning of iterative structures is diverse across the animal kingdom. Clarifying the molecular mechanisms involved in the formation of these structure helps to elucidate the process of organogenesis. Turing-type reaction-diffusion mechanisms have been shown to play a critical role in regulating periodic patterning in organogenesis. Palatal rugae are periodically patterned ridges situated on the hard palate of mammals. We have previously shown that the palatal rugae develop by a Turing-type reaction-diffusion mechanism, which is reliant upon Shh (as an inhibitor) and Fgf (as an activator) signaling for appropriate organization of these structures. The disturbance of Shh and Fgf signaling lead to disorganized palatal rugae. However, the mechanism itself is not fully understood. Here we found that Lrp4 (transmembrane protein) was expressed in a complementary pattern to Wise (a secreted BMP antagonist and Wnt modulator) expression in palatal rugae development, representing Lrp4 expression in developing rugae and Wise in the inter-rugal epithelium. Highly disorganized palatal rugae was observed in both Wise and Lrp4 mutant mice, and these mutants also showed the downregulation of Shh signaling, which was accompanied with upregulation of Fgf signaling. Wise and Lrp4 are thus likely to control palatal rugae development by regulating reaction-diffusion mechanisms through Shh and Fgf signaling. We also found that Bmp and Wnt signaling were partially involved in this mechanism.

Integrating 3D Rotational Angiography into Gamma Knife Planning

3D rotational angiography provides remarkable spatial resolution for cerebrovascular disorders; however, it cannot be integrated directly into gamma knife planning due to the discrepancy of DICOM "tag" information, and most physicians still cannot benefit from 3D rotational angiography. Here, we describe a simple and easy technique to enable the integration of 3D rotational angiography.

Pharmacological induction of heat shock proteins ameliorates toxicity of mutant PKCγ in spinocerebellar ataxia type 14

Amyloid and amyloid-like protein aggregations are hallmarks of multiple, varied neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. We previously reported that spinocerebellar ataxia type 14 (SCA14), a dominant-inherited neurodegenerative disease that affects cerebellar Purkinje cells, is characterized by the intracellular formation of neurotoxic amyloid-like aggregates of genetic variants of protein kinase Cγ (PKCγ). A number of protein chaperones, including heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), promote the degradation and/or refolding of misfolded proteins and thereby prevent their aggregation. Here, we report that, in various SCA14-associated, aggregating PKCγ variants, endogenous Hsp70 is incorporated into aggregates and that expression of these PKCγ mutants up-regulates Hsp70 expression. We observed that PKCγ binds Hsp70 and that this interaction is enhanced in the SCA14-associated variants, mediated by the kinase domain that is involved in amyloid-like fibril formation as well as the C2 domain of PKCγ. Pharmacological up-regulation of Hsp70 by the Hsp90 inhibitors celastrol and herbimycin A attenuated the aggregation of mutant PKCγ in primary cultured Purkinje cells. Up-regulation of Hsp70 diminished net PKCγ aggregation by preventing aggregate formation, resulting in decreased levels of apoptotic cell death among primary cultured Purkinje cells expressing the PKCγ variant. Of note, herbimycin A also ameliorated abnormal dendritic development. Extending our in vitro observations, administration of celastrol to mice up-regulated cerebellar Hsp70. Our findings identify heat shock proteins as important endogenous regulators of pathophysiological PKCγ aggregation and point to Hsp90 inhibition as a potential therapeutic strategy in the treatment of SCA14.

Hearing vulnerability after noise exposure in a mouse model of reactive oxygen species overproduction

Previous studies have convincingly argued that reactive oxygen species (ROS) contribute to the development of several major types of sensorineural hearing loss, such as noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), drug-induced hearing loss, and age-related hearing loss. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms induced by ROS in these pathologies remain unclear. To resolve this issue, we established an in vivo model of ROS overproduction by generating a transgenic (TG) mouse line expressing the human NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4, NOX4-TG mice), which is a constitutively active ROS-producing enzyme that does not require stimulation or an activator. Overproduction of ROS was detected at the cochlea of the inner ear in NOX4-TG mice, but they showed normal hearing function under baseline conditions. However, they demonstrated hearing function vulnerability, especially at high-frequency sounds, upon exposure to intense noise, which was accompanied by loss of cochlear outer hair cells (OHCs). The vulnerability to loss of hearing function and OHCs was rescued by treatment with the antioxidant Tempol. Additionally, we found increased protein levels of the heat-shock protein 47 (HSP47) in models using HEK293 cells, including H₂ O₂ treatment and cells with stable and transient expression of NOX4. Furthermore, the up-regulated levels of Hsp47 were observed in both the cochlea and heart of NOX4-TG mice. Thus, antioxidant therapy is a promising approach for the treatment of NIHL. Hsp47 may be an endogenous antioxidant factor, compensating for the chronic ROS overexposure in vivo, and counteracting ROS-related hearing loss.

COMPARISON OF PERSONAL DOSE EQUIVALENT Hp(10) IN 137CS RADIATION BETWEEN THE PRIMARY STANDARDS LABORATORIES OF JAPAN AND AUSTRALIA USING BeO OSL PERSONAL DOSEMETERS

A comparison of personal dose equivalent Hp(10) for 137Cs radiation was conducted between the primary standards laboratories of Japan and Australia. A set of 120 commercially available passive BeO OSL dosemeters were used (Dosimetrics GmbH, Munich). The aim was to investigate the precision which could be obtained with this technique, and to confirm the personal dose equivalent delivery methods in each standards laboratory. A dose of 5 mSv was delivered to 40 dosemeters in each country, and 40 dosemeters were used as controls. The result of the comparison was a ratio of Hp(10) in Japan to Australia of 1.006 with a combined standard uncertainty of 3.2%. The statistical uncertainty was 0.32% indicating that passive dosemeters can be used for comparisons of high precision.

Real-time monitoring for reforming processes of liquid hydrocarbon fuel–air pre-mixtures by non-thermal plasmas using ion attachment mass spectrometry

Plasma induced reforming processes of fuel–air mixtures were investigated to understand the mechanism of the low temperature plasma-assisted combustion technique, which can improve the thermal efficiency and stability of internal combustion engines.

Validation of Anti-CSPα, SNAP25, Tyrosine Hydroxylase, Ubiquitin, Cleaved Caspase 3, and pSer PKC Motif Antibodies for Utilization in Western Blotting

There are many commercial antibodies with little information provided by their suppliers as to their reliability. Accordingly, commercial antibodies require proper validation before being used in scientific research. In this study, we validated several commercial antibodies, including anti-CSPα, SNAP25, tyrosine hydroxylase, ubiquitin, cleaved caspase 3, and pSer PKC motif. Anti-CSPα, SNAP25, and tyrosine hydroxylase antibodies could detect their endogenous target proteins with some degree of cross-reactivity. Furthermore, clear SNAP25 staining was observed with SNAP25 antibody. Antibodies directed against ubiquitin, cleaved caspase 3, and pSer PKC motif could detect poly-ubiquitination, apoptosis, and phosphorylation, respectively.

Roles of Cdc42 and Rac in Bergmann glia during cerebellar corticogenesis

Bergmann glia (BG) are important in the inward type of radial migration of cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs). However, details regarding the functions of Cdc42 and Rac in BG for radial migration of CGN are unknown. To examine the roles of Cdc42 and Rac in BG during cerebellar corticogenesis, mice with a single deletion of Cdc42 or Rac1 and those with double deletions of Cdc42 and Rac1 under control of the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) promoter: GFAP-Cre;Cdc42^flox/flox (Cdc42-KO), GFAP-Cre;Rac1^flox/flox (Rac1-KO), and GFAP-Cre; Cdc42^flox/flox;Rac1^flox/flox (Cdc42/Rac1-DKO) mice, were generated. Both Cdc42-KO and Rac1-KO mice, but more obviously Cdc42-KO mice, had disturbed alignment of BG in the Purkinje cell layer (PCL). We found that Cdc42-KO, but not Rac1-KO, induced impaired radial migration of CGNs in the late phase of radial migration, leading to retention of CGNs in the lower half of the molecular layer (ML). Cdc42-KO, but not Rac1-KO, mice also showed aberrantly aligned Purkinje cells (PCs). These phenotypes were exacerbated in Cdc42/Rac1-DKO mice. Alignment of BG radial fibers in the ML and BG endfeet at the pial surface of the cerebellum evaluated by GFAP staining was disturbed and weak in Cdc42/Rac1-DKO mice, respectively. Our data indicate that Cdc42 and Rac, but predominantly Cdc42, in BG play important roles during the late phase of radial migration of CGNs. We also report here that Cdc42 is involved in gliophilic migration of CGNs, in contrast to Rac, which is more closely connected to regulating neurophilic migration.

Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry using a new primary ion beam generated by vacuum electrospray of a protic ionic liquid, propylammonium nitrate

RATIONALE

Protic ionic liquids have the potential to be useful materials for primary ion beams in terms of protonation, since they have active protons. Selecting protic ionic liquids suitable for primary ion beams is of great importance to increase molecular secondary ion yields. Propylammonium nitrate ([C₃ H₇ NH₃ ][NO₃ ]) seems promising in view of its proton affinity. It is likely that [C₃ H₇ NH₃ ]⁺ cations can act as proton donors, and [NO₃ ]^- anions can work as proton acceptors.

METHODS

Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS) experiments have been performed to verify the usefulness of [C₃ H₇ NH₃ ][NO₃ ]. A primary propylammonium nitrate cluster ion beam was generated by vacuum electrospray, and then used to analyze amino acids (arginine, glutamic acid, aspartic acid), angiotensin II and polyethylene glycol. Positive and negative secondary ion mass spectra were obtained to study both protonation and deprotonation.

RESULTS

The propylammonium nitrate cluster ion beam successfully generated protonated molecules [M + H]⁺ of all the analytes in positive ion mode. The primary ion beam also generated deprotonated molecules [M - H]^- of glutamic acid, aspartic acid and angiotensin II in negative ion mode. Additionally, adduct ions related to [C₃ H₇ NH₃ ][NO₃ ] were detected in the case of arginine and polyethylene glycol.

CONCLUSIONS

The TOF-SIMS experiments confirmed that the propylammonium nitrate cluster ion beam was useful in generating molecular secondary ions, demonstrating that it is well suited for a primary ion beam in TOF-SIMS.

Effects of vitamin E and its derivatives on diabetic nephropathy in Rats and identification of diacylglycerol kinase subtype involved in the improvement of diabetic nephropathy

Background: Diabetes is a significant social issue. Controlling diabetic complications such as nephropathy is very important for QOL of diabetic patients. One of the mechanisms which causes diabetic complications is the abnormal activation of protein kinase C (PKC) by increased diacylglycerol (DG) from hyperglycemia. Diacylglycerol kinase (DGK) can attenuate PKC activity by converting DG to phosphatidic acid. Thus far, d-a-tocopherol (VtE) treatment has been shown to prevent early changes of diabetic renal dysfunctions by activating DGK. However, it is still unknown whether VtE derivatives improve diabetic nephropathy similarly to VtE, and which DGK subtype is activated by VtE and/or the derivatives. Objective: The purpose of the study was to investigate effects of VtE and its derivatives on diabetic nephropathy in rats, in addition to identifying the DGK subtype involved in the improvement of nephropathy in vivo. Methods: To induce diabetes in rats, six weeks old male Sprague-Dawley rats were intraperitonealy administrated 65 mg/kg streptozocin (STZ) in 20 mM citrate buffer. For two or eight weeks, 40 mg/kg VtE, 44 mg/kg acetate VtE (aVtE) or 49.3 mg/kg succinate VtE (sVtE) was intraperitonealy administrated every other day after STZ administration. The blood glucose level, body weight, and kidney weight, in addition to urinary volume, albumin, and BUN were measured every week after STZ administration. Additionally, in order to identify the DGK subtype activated by VtE and aVtE, the DGK subtype expressed in the rat glomerulus was checked by RT-PCR and western blotting, and the activity in the glomerulus from the rats before and after the VtE and aVtE treatments were measured in the presence or absence of EGTA.Results: Averages of kidney weight and BUN of rats treated with VtE, aVtE and sVtE for 8 weeks were reduced, compared to the control. However, the intraperitoneal administration of sVtE was toxic. Additionally, the amount of urine volume and urinary albumin significantly improved by the two-weeks treatment of VtE and aVtE. mRNA of DGKa, g, d, e, and z were detected in the glomerulus, but only the protein of DGKa and DGKd were detected as calcium-dependent and independent subtype respectively. Both VtE and aVtE activated DGK in the glomerulus. However, the calcium dependent DGK subtype was mainly activated by aVtE, with not only the calcium-dependent subtype but also the calcium-independent subtype being activated in the case of VtE. In other words, DGKa was activated by aVtE and DGKd was additionally enhanced in the case of VtE.Conclusion: These results clearly indicated that aVtE as well as VtE improved diabetic nephropathy, with the activation of DGKa and/or d being potentially involved with this improvement. Key words: diabetic nephropathy, diacylglycerol kinase, vitamin E