Acupuncture Treatment Improves Transport Stress in Microminipigs Through the Acupoint in Ears

BACKGROUND/AIM

This study aimed to investigate the effects of acupuncture treatment through the ear acupoints on transport stress in experimental microminipigs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Experiment 1: Six animals were equally divided into two groups (Control and Treatment). In the treatment group, before transportation (6 h; vehicle and plane), short, ultrathin circular transdermal needles were applied to locations corresponding to the acupoints on the apical area of both ears. Peripheral blood samples were collected from the cranial vena cava 2 days before and immediately after transportation. Blood stress markers, biochemistry indicators, and oxidative stress levels were examined. Experiment 2 (follow-up study: diarrhea incidence after transportation): Diarrhea incidence after transportation in the control and treatment groups was investigated.

RESULTS

Experiment 1: Transport stress induced an increase in blood cortisol, serum amyloid A (SAA), glucose, non-esterified fatty acid, and derivatives of reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) and decreased the biological antioxidant potential (BAP)/d-ROMs ratio yet did not affect BAP. Acupuncture suppressed the increases in SAA and d-ROMs values and the decrease in BAP/d-ROMs ratio. Experiment 2: The total diarrhea incidence was 25% in the control group, whereas diarrhea was not observed in the treatment group.

CONCLUSION

Acupuncture treatment suppresses hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal function and, as a result, reduces transport stress without affecting the suppression of the central catecholaminergic system. Acupuncture treatment for transport stress can improve animal welfare.

In Vivo Metabolism of 1,5-Anhydro-d-fructose to 1,5-Anhydro-d-glucitol

BACKGROUND/AIM

1,5-Anhydro-d-fructose (1,5-AF, saccharide) and 1,5-anhydro-d-glucitol (1,5-AG) converted from 1,5-AF via the glycemic pathway have health benefits. However, this metabolism has not been sufficiently elucidated. To clarify the in vivo metabolism of 1,5-AF to 1,5-AG, porcine (blood kinetics) and human (urinary excretion) studies were conducted.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Microminipigs were administrated 1,5-AF orally or intravenously. Blood samples were obtained to analyse the kinetics of 1,5-AF and 1,5-AG. Urine samples were collected from human subjects who had orally ingested 1,5-AF, and the amounts of 1,5-AF and 1,5-AG excreted in the urine were analysed.

RESULTS

In blood kinetics analysis, the time to the maximum concentration of 1,5-AF after intravenous administration was 0.5 h, whereas 1,5-AF was not observed after oral administration. The times to the maximum concentration of 1,5-AG after intravenous and oral administration were 1.5 h and 2 h, respectively. In urinary excretion, the concentration of 1,5-AG in urine rapidly increased after the administration of 1,5-AF, peaked at 2 h, whereas 1,5-AF was not detected.

CONCLUSION

1,5-AF was rapidly metabolized to 1.5-AG in vivo in swine and human.

In vitro antiviral activity of persimmon-derived tannin against avian influenza viruses

Tannins derived from natural plant sources are known to provide many health benefits to humans and animals. Among the various tannins, those derived from persimmon (Diospyros kaki) have exhibited strong inactivating effects against pathogens that induce diseases in humans. However, few studies have focused on the antiviral effects of persimmon tannin against pathogen-induced diseases in animals. In this study, we investigated the antiviral effects of persimmon tannin against various avian influenza viruses revealing that tannin at a concentration of 1.0 mg ml-1 reduced viral infectivity in >6.0-log scale against all tested avian influenza viruses. In addition, this persimmon tannin concentration effectively inhibited the receptor binding and membrane fusion abilities of viral hemagglutinin (HA), which play important roles in avian influenza virus infection. These results suggest that persimmon tannin inactivates the HA of avian influenza viruses and reduces their infectivity. Persimmon tannin is a safer natural substance than the currently used chemical compound related to antiviral substance. When inactivation of the viruses which are present in environmental water such as roosting water of wild birds will be needed, persimmon tannin is expected to become an antiviral resource that may prevent the spread of several avian influenza virus subtypes.

OPERA tau neutrino charged current interactions

The OPERA experiment was designed to discover the vτ appearance in a vμ beam, due to neutrino oscillations. The detector, located in the underground Gran Sasso Laboratory, consisted of a nuclear photographic emulsion/lead target with a mass of about 1.25 kt, complemented by electronic detectors. It was exposed from 2008 to 2012 to the CNGS beam: an almost pure vμ beam with a baseline of 730 km, collecting a total of 1.8·1020 protons on target. The OPERA Collaboration eventually assessed the discovery of vμ→vτ oscillations with a statistical significance of 6.1 σ by observing ten vτ CC interaction candidates. These events have been published on the Open Data Portal at CERN. This paper provides a detailed description of the vτ data sample to make it usable by the whole community.

NR6A1 Allelic Frequencies as an Index for both Miniaturizing and Increasing Pig Body Size

BACKGROUND/AIM

The number of vertebrae in swine varies from 19 to 23 and is associated with body size. Nuclear receptor subfamily 6 group A member 1 (NR6A1) is considered a strong candidate for affecting the number of vertebrae in swine. Wild boars, which uniformly have 19 vertebrae, have the wild type allele while multi-vertebrae European commercial pigs have the mutated allele. Our aim was to confirm the factor of the miniaturization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We examined vertebrae number and NR6A1 polymorphism in the Microminipig and three domestic breeds that vary in body size.

RESULTS

The Microminipig had 19 or less vertebrae and a wild type NR6A1 genotype. Three domestic breeds had more than 21 vertebrae while the largest vertebrae number was observed in multi-vertebrae-fixed Large White. Heterozygous genotypes were observed in the middle-sized indigenous pig while homozygous NR6A1 mutations were observed in European commercial breeds.

CONCLUSION

NR6A1 could be a useful index for both miniaturizing and increasing pig body size.

Morphological and molecular identification of Eimeria spp. in breeding chicken farms of Japan

There have been no reports of the prevalence of Eimeria spp. in poultry breeding farms in Japan unlike those of broiler farms. From 2017 to 2018, we examined the prevalence of Eimeria spp. on breeding farms in Japan by oocyst morphology and PCR analyses. A total of 143 samples was collected from 37 breeding farms in 21 prefectures of Japan. We detected oocysts of seven species at 34 of 37 breeding farms by PCR, and we identified E. brunetti at 51.5% of farms found to be positive for Eimeria. The differences in the identification of Eimeria spp. between the morphology and PCR assay methods of oocysts were pronounced for E. maxima and E. necatrix. We confirmed that molecular tools were more suitable for accurately estimating prevalence of Eimeria spp., and these findings suggest that E. brunetti could be widespread in Japan.

Molecular and biological analysis revealed genetic diversity and high virulence strain of Toxoplasma gondii in Japan

Toxoplasma gondii is classified into 16 haplogroups based on a worldwide genotyping study of the parasite. However, only a few isolates from Japan were included in this analysis. To conduct more precise genotyping of T. gondii, we examined the genotypes of Japanese isolates in this study. DNA sequences of 6 loci were determined in 17 Japanese isolates and compared with those of strains of 16 haplogroups. As a result, Japanese isolates were classified into four groups. We investigated the virulence of some Japanese isolates and found a highly virulent strain in mice, comparable to that of RH strain, although this Japanese isolate was sister to strains of haplogroup 2, which show moderate virulence in mice. We further investigated whether this high virulence isolate had different virulence mechanism and strategy to adapt to Japanese host from other strains by comparing the virulence-related genes, ROP5, 18 and the immunomodulatory gene, ROP16 of the isolate with those of archetypical strains (GT1, ME49 and VEG). This analysis indicated the high virulence of the isolate in mice was partly explained by gene sequences of ROP5 and ROP16. These findings lead to the elucidation of biodiversity of T. gondii and have potential to optimize the diagnostic protocol.

In vivo characterization of a Toxoplasma gondii strain TgCatJpTy1/k-3 isolated from a stray cat in Japan

The Toxoplasma gondii strain TgCatJpTy1/k-3 (K-3), isolated from a stray cat in Tokyo, Japan, is categorized as a type II genotype. Since the K-3 strain is empirically known to form relatively larger cysts and exhibit weak pathogenesis in a mouse, it could serve as a useful model organism to study chronic T. gondii infection in the host. However, a detailed biological characterization of this strain had not been performed. In this study, we thoroughly assessed the K-3 strain in vivo using a mouse model. Tests indicated that pathogenicity of the K-3 strain was lower than that of the PLK strain, a clonal laboratory strain with a moderately pathogenic type II genotype. Further, cyst sizes of the K-3 strain were significantly larger than those of the PLK strain. Interestingly, K-3 cyst sizes in T. gondii-resistant ICR mice were larger than those in T. gondii-susceptible C57BL/6N mice. Our study suggests that the K-3 strain is suitable to study T. gondii cystogenesis and chronic infection, which are currently difficult to analyze using cell-adopted T. gondii strains.

Interleukin-18 is associated with the presence of interstitial lung disease in rheumatoid arthritis: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

Serum interleukin-18 (IL-18) levels are increased in patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD). In addition, IL-18 levels are increased in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and are associated with arthritis activity. We determined whether increased IL-18 levels are associated with ILD in RA.

METHOD

RA patients were enrolled using an RA cohort database. Plasma IL-18 levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. ILD was determined by a pulmonologist and a radiologist based on chest radiography and computed tomography findings. IL-18 levels for RA with ILD and RA without ILD were compared. Associations between ILD and various markers including IL-18 and confounding factors (e.g. smoking history) were investigated by logistic regression analysis. Diagnostic values of IL-18 for the presence of ILD were investigated using receiver operating characteristics curve analysis.

RESULTS

ILD was complicated in 8.2% (n = 26) of the study population (N = 312). Plasma IL-18 levels were higher for RA patients with ILD than for RA patients without ILD (721.0 ± 481.4 vs 436.8 ± 438.9 pg/mL, p < 0.001). IL-18, Krebs von den Lungen-6, and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody titre and glucocorticoid doses were independently associated with the presence of ILD during multivariate logistic regression analysis. Sensitivity and specificity of IL-18 levels for the detection of ILD in RA patients were 65.3% and 76.3%, respectively (area under the curve = 0.73).

CONCLUSION

Plasma IL-18 levels were higher for RA patients with ILD than for those without ILD. Increased IL-18 levels were associated with the presence of ILD.

Final Results of the OPERA Experiment on ν_{τ} Appearance in the CNGS Neutrino Beam

The OPERA experiment was designed to study ν_{μ}→ν_{τ} oscillations in the appearance mode in the CERN to Gran Sasso Neutrino beam (CNGS). In this Letter, we report the final analysis of the full data sample collected between 2008 and 2012, corresponding to 17.97×10^{19} protons on target. Selection criteria looser than in previous analyses have produced ten ν_{τ} candidate events, thus reducing the statistical uncertainty in the measurement of the oscillation parameters and of ν_{τ} properties. A multivariate approach for event identification has been applied to the candidate events and the discovery of ν_{τ} appearance is confirmed with an improved significance level of 6.1σ. |Δm_{32}^{2}| has been measured, in appearance mode, with an accuracy of 20%. The measurement of the ν_{τ} charged-current cross section, for the first time with a negligible contamination from ν[over ¯]_{τ}, and the first direct evidence for the ν_{τ} lepton number are also reported.

Atypical virulence in a type III Toxoplasma gondii strain isolated in Japan

The virulence of a type III Toxoplasma gondii strain isolated in Japan and designated here as TgCatJpGi1/TaJ was examined in mice and micro minipigs in this study. Despite its type III genotype, oral or intraperitoneal inoculation of cysts from it resulted in severe virulence in C57BL/6J and BALB/c mice. In contrast, mice inoculated with a high dose of TgCatJpGi1/TaJ tachyzoites showed no obvious clinical signs of infection, and all of them survived for >21 days post-inoculation. Furthermore, no clinical signs of infection were seen when micro minipigs were inoculated with 900 cysts. Interestingly, our allelic type screening of the virulence-related rop5, rop16, rop17, and rop18 genes, as based on restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis (RFLP), revealed that the RFLP patterns for TgCatJpGi1/TaJ were identical to those from nonvirulent type III parasites. These results suggest that TgCatJpGi1/TaJ possesses an unknown virulence factor or factors.

The development of oocytes in the ovary of a parthenogenetic tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis

Haemaphysalis longicornis is an important vector of various pathogens in domestic animals and humans. The tick is a unique species with bisexual and parthenogenetic races. Although mating induces oocyte development, it is possible in the parthenogenetic race to complete oogenesis without copulation. Here we examined the developmental process of oocytes from unfed to the oviposition period in parthenogenetic H. longicornis. We classified the developmental stages of oocytes into five stages: stage I, germinal vesicle occupies more than half of the cytoplasm; stage II, germinal vesicle occupies less than half of the cytoplasm; stage III, germinal vesicle migrates from the center in the oocyte to the vicinity of the pedicel cells; stage IV, the cytoplasm is filled with yolk granules of various sizes; stage V, the cytoplasm is occupied by large yolk granules. Oocytes at the unfed period were undeveloped and classified as stage I. Stage I and II oocytes were observed at the rapid feeding period, indicating that oocyte development began after the initiation of blood feeding. All developmental stages of oocytes were observed at the pre-oviposition period. At 10 days after the beginning of the oviposition period, the ratios of stage I and II oocytes were higher than those of the previous period, suggesting that the ovarian development and activity may be continuing. Based on these findings, we propose classification criteria for the oocyte development in the parthenogenetic H. longicornis. The criteria will be useful for understanding the mechanisms of tick reproduction and transovarial transmission of pathogens.

Characterization and expression analysis of a newly identified glutathione S-transferase of the hard tick Haemaphysalis longicornis during blood-feeding

Background

Ticks are obligate hematophagous parasites important economically and to health. Ticks consume large amounts of blood for their survival and reproduction; however, large amounts of iron in blood could lead to oxidative stress. Ticks use several molecules such as glutathione S-transferases (GSTs), ferritins, and peroxiredoxins to cope with oxidative stress. This study aimed to identify and characterize the GSTs of the hard tick Haemaphysalis longicornis in order to determine if they have a role in coping with oxidative stress.

Methods

Genes encoding GSTs of H. longicornis were isolated from the midgut CDNA library. Genes have been cloned and recombinant GSTs have been expressed. The enzymatic activities, enzyme kinetic constants, and optimal pH of the recombinant GSTs toward 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB) were determined. The gene transcription and protein expression profiles were determined in the whole ticks and internal organs, and developmental stages using real time RT-PCR and Western blotting during blood feeding. The localization of GST proteins in organs was also observed using immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT).

Results

We have isolated two genes encoding GSTs (HlGST and HlGST2). The enzymatic activity toward CDNB is 9.75 ± 3.04 units/mg protein for recombinant HlGST and 11.63 ± 4.08 units/mg protein for recombinant HlGST2. Kinetic analysis of recombinant HlGST showed K_m values of 0.82 ± 0.14 mM and 0.64 ± 0.32 mM for the function of CDNB and GSH, respectively. Meanwhile, recombinant HlGST2 has K_m values of 0.61 ± 0.20 mM and 0.53 ± 0.02 mM for the function of CDNB and GSH, respectively. The optimum pH of recombinant HlGST and recombinant HlGST2 activity was 7.5–8.0. Transcription of both GSTs increases in different developmental stages and organs during blood-feeding. GST proteins are upregulated during blood-feeding but decreased upon engorgement in whole ticks and in some organs, such as the midgut and hemocytes. Interestingly, salivary glands, ovaries, and fat bodies showed decreasing protein expression during blood-feeding to engorgement. Varying localization of GSTs in the midgut, salivary glands, fat bodies, ovaries, and hemocytes was observed depending on the feeding state, especially in the midgut and salivary glands.

Conclusions

In summary, a novel GST of H. longicornis has been identified. Characterization of the GSTs showed that GSTs have positive correlation with the degree and localization of oxidative stress during blood-feeding. This could indicate their protective role during oxidative stress.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-018-2667-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Immunofluorescent detection in the ovary of host antibodies against a secretory ferritin injected into female Haemaphysalis longicornis ticks

Due to the continuous threat of ticks and tick-borne diseases to human and animal health worldwide, and the drawbacks of chemical acaricide application, many researchers are exploring vaccination as an alternative tick control method. Earlier studies have shown that host antibodies can circulate in the ticks, but it has not been confirmed whether these antibodies can be passed on to the eggs. We previously reported that ticks infesting rabbits immunized with a recombinant secretory ferritin of Haemaphysalis longicornis (HlFER2) had reduced egg production and hatching. Here we attempted to detect the presence of antibodies against HlFER2 in the ovary and eggs of female ticks through immunofluorescent visualization. Purified anti-HlFER2 antibodies or rabbit IgG for control was directly injected to engorged female H. longicornis. Ovaries and eggs after oviposition were collected and prepared for an indirect immunofluorescent antibody test. Positive fluorescence was detected in ovaries one day post-injection of anti-HlFER2 antibodies. Through silencing of Hlfer2 gene, we also determined whether the injected antibodies can specifically bind to native HlFER2. Immunofluorescence was observed in the oocytes of dsLuciferase control ticks injected with anti-HlFER2 antibodies, but not in the oocytes of Hlfer2-silenced ticks also injected with anti-HlFER2 antibodies. Our current findings suggest that host antibodies can be passed on to the oocytes, which is significant in formulating a vaccine that can disrupt tick reproduction.

Report of fatal mixed infection with Cryptosporidium parvum and Giardia intestinalis in neonatal calves

In the production and management of beef and dairy cattle, controlling diarrhea is one of the important concerns. Pathogenic agents of the disease, protozoan parasites including Cryptosporidium spp., are difficult to control, making prevention, diagnoses, and treatment of diarrhea. In the present study, we investigated a farm with a history of calf deaths over a period of 10 years in order to determine the cause of disease and to clarify the detailed distribution of the pathogens. In four examined calves that were reared in calf pens, all were positive with Cryptosporidium and/or Giardia, while the other breeding stock and adult cattle were negative. Molecular analyses revealed that the isolates from calves were C. parvum subtype IIaA15G2R1 as a zoonotic and G. intestinalis assemblage E. Other pathogenic bacteria and diarrhea-causing viruses were not detected. After treating the calf pens with boiling water and milk of lime (Ca[OH]2), oocysts of C. parvum and cysts of G. intestinalis were not found and no additional calves died. This is the first report to describe the mixed infection of both parasites in Japan.

Evaluation of the effectiveness of the potent bis-quaternary ammonium compound, 4,4'-(α,ω-hexametylenedithio) bis (1-octylpyridinium bromide) (4DTBP-6,8) on Pseudomonas aeruginosa

AIMS

Quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), including benzalkonium chloride (BAC) and cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) are cationic surfactants and have been used widely as general disinfectants in the medical field due to their strong antibacterial effects and low cytotoxicity to human cells. 4,4'-(α,ω-hexametylenedithio) bis (1-octylpyridinium bromide) (4DTBP-6,8) is one of the potent bis-QACs synthesized to improve the antimicrobial activities of mono-QACs such as BAC. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of 4DTBP-6,8 against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a prevalent hospital pathogen.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The minimum inhibitory concentrations of 4DTBP-6,8, CPC and BAC against P. aeruginosa were measured. 4DTBP-6,8 exhibited strong antibacterial activity. We assessed the bactericidal effects of QACs against P. aeruginosa under certain conditions and their cytotoxicities in human epithelial cells using lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. 4DTBP-6,8 exerted excellent bactericidal effects against high concentrations of bacteria, biofilm cells and even in the presence of contaminated proteins. Cellular LDH was not released by the treatment with 4DTBP-6,8.

CONCLUSIONS

4DTBP-6,8 exhibited the strongest bactericidal activity against P. aeruginosa among the three QACs tested without any cytotoxicity.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The potent bis-QAC, 4DTBP-6,8 has the potential to be an effective disinfectant in preventing hospital infections caused by P. aeruginosa.

Novel reuterin-related compounds suppress odour by periodontopathic bacteria

OBJECTIVE

Halitosis is caused by volatile sulphur compounds including methyl mercaptan (CH₃ SH) in the oral cavity and is a serious problem that limits interpersonal social communication. The aim of study was to evaluate the effects of reuterin-related compounds (RRCs) on halitosis-related periodontopathic bacteria in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RRC-01, RRC-02 and RRC-03 (32 and 64 μg ml^-1 ) in culture media containing Fusobacterium nucleatum JCM8523 and Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC33277 were used. The effects of RRCs on CH₃ SH production and detectable odour by F. nucleatum and P. gingivalis were examined by CH₃ SH production assay and organoleptic test, respectively. The number of bacterial cells was also measured using an ATP assay. In P. gingivalis treated with RRCs, the expression of mgl gene, which is responsible for CH₃ SH production, was examined by qRT-PCR.

RESULTS

CH₃ SH production and the score of detectable odour from F. nucleatum and P. gingivalis culture media containing RRCs were significantly lower than that without RRCs (P < 0.05). The expression of mgl gene in P. gingivalis was significantly downregulated by RRC-01 (P < 0.01), but not by RRC-02 or RRC-03.

CONCLUSIONS

RRCs are potent oral care products for preventing halitosis via reducing CH₃ SH production.

Caries-related Bacteria and Cytokines Induce CXCL10 in Dental Pulp

Marked infiltration of inflammatory cells, such as activated T-cells, is observed in the progression of pulpitis; however, little is known about the mechanism of their recruitment into pulpal lesions. It has been recently demonstrated that CXC chemokine ligand 10 (CXCL10) chemoattracts CXC chemokine receptor 3 (CXCR3)-positive activated T-cells. We therefore examined whether CXCL10 is involved in the pathogenesis of pulpitis. CXCL10 mRNA expression levels in clinically inflamed dental pulp were higher than those in healthy dental pulp. Immunostaining results revealed that CXCL10 was detected in macrophages, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts in inflamed dental pulp, and that CXCR3 expression was observed mainly on T-cells. Moreover, cultured dental pulp fibroblasts produced CXCL10 after stimulation with live caries-related bacteria, peptidoglycans, and pro-inflammatory cytokines. In contrast, heat-killed bacteria did not induce CXCL10 secretion. These findings suggest that CXCL10-CXCR3 may play an important role in the pulpal immune response to caries-related bacterial invasion. Abbreviations: CXCL10, CXC chemokine ligand 10; CXCR3, CXC chemokine receptor 3; IFN, interferon; FBS, fetal bovine serum; LTA, lipoteichoic acid; PGN, peptidoglycan; IL, interleukin; TNF, tumor necrosis factor; PBS, phosphate-buffered saline; ELISA, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; CCL, C-C chemokine ligand; TLR, Toll-like receptor; NOD, nucleotide oligomerization domain; HDPF, human dental pulp fibroblasts.

Pathogenic factors in Candida biofilm-related infectious diseases

Candida albicans is a commonly found member of the human microflora and is a major human opportunistic fungal pathogen. A perturbation of the microbiome can lead to infectious diseases caused by various micro-organisms, including C. albicans. Moreover, the interactions between C. albicans and bacteria are considered to play critical roles in human health. The major biological feature of C. albicans, which impacts human health, resides in its ability to form biofilms. In particular, the extracellular matrix (ECM) of Candida biofilm plays a multifaceted role and therefore may be considered as a highly attractive target to combat biofilm-related infectious diseases. In addition, extracellular DNA (eDNA) also plays a crucial role in Candida biofilm formation and its structural integrity and induces the morphological transition from yeast to the hyphal growth form during C. albicans biofilm development. This review focuses on pathogenic factors such as eDNA in Candida biofilm formation and its ECM production and provides meaningful information for future studies to develop a novel strategy to battle infectious diseases elicited by Candida-formed biofilm.

Chondroitin Sulfate Iron Colloid as MR Contrast Agent in Differentiation between Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Adenomatous Hyperplasia

Using a 1.5 T MR imaging unit, T1- and T2-weighted images were obtained before and after i.v. administration of chondroitin sulfate iron colloid (CSIC) in order to differentiate hepatocellular carcinoma (n = 20) from adenomatous hyperplasia without atypia (n = 16). Differentiation was made from the tumor-liver contrast to noise ratio (CNR) and visual evaluation of the nodule, with reference to signal intensity relative to that of the surrounding liver. The CNR of adenomatous hyperplasia was on T1-weighted images significantly decreased after CSIC administration (p < 0.01). On T2-weighted images, there was no significant difference in CNR after CSIC administration. On the other hand, the CNR of hepatocellular carcinoma was significantly increased after CSIC administration on both T1- and T2-weighted images (p < 0.01). CSIC reflects intratumor reticuloendothelial cellular functions, and is therefore useful in differentiating hepatocellular carcinoma from adenomatous hyperplasia without atypia.

Dynamics of Theileria orientalis genotype population in cattle in a year-round grazing system

Theirelia orientalis is a tick-borne haemoprotozoan parasite, and infection with this parasite is one of the most important diseases for grazing cattle. Co-infection of cattle with different genotypes of T. orientalis often occurs. In this study, we investigated the temporal dynamics of genotypes in cattle in a year-round grazing system in Japan. Genotype-specific PCR assays to determine major piroplasm surface protein (MPSP) genotypes (types 1 to 5) of T. orientalis were performed by using time-course blood samples collected from grazing cattle and ticks in a pasture. All 20 cattle investigated in this study were infected with T. orientalis. By using genotype-specific PCR, we detected the combination of genotypes of T. orientalis (types 1 to 5) from each cattle. These multiple genotypes of T. orientalis were also confirmed in ticks. Notably, each genotype of T. orientalis in cattle was temporally detected from cattle and more variable genotypes were found in summer. The observed temporal dynamics of the MPSP genotypes of T. orientalis in cattle could be explained by host immunity against the parasites or genetic recombination of parasite in ticks.

IDENTICAL TWIN SISTERS WITH CLOSE ONSET OF GRAVES' DISEASE AND WITH MULTIPLE HLA SUSCEPTIBILITY ALLELES FOR GRAVES' DISEASE

CONTEXT

Autoimmune thyroid disease is considered a multifactorial disorder in which autoimmunity against thyroid antigens is facilitated by exposure to endogenous and environmental factors. We present here a rare case of identical female twins who developed consecutively Graves' disease within a few months and had three HLA susceptibility alleles for the development of Graves' disease.

SUBJECTS

A 28-year-old woman was referred to our hospital complaining of thirst, sweating, palpitations, tremor and skin rash. Laboratory data showed hyperthyroidism with antibodies against the thyroid stimulating hormone receptor and ultrasonography of the thyroid revealed enlargement with hypervascularity. Her identical twin was referred to our hospital because of similar symptoms.

RESULT

We diagnosed them with Graves' disease and both were treated with methimazole. Human leukocyte antigen genotyping showed that both twins possessed the DRB1*04:05, DQB1*04:01:01, DPB1*05:01 haplotype, which confers susceptibility to Graves' disease.

CONCLUSIONS

This case supports the hypothesis that interaction of multiple human leukocyte antigen susceptibility alleles as well as genetic background and environmental factors might synergistically contribute the close timing in Graves' disease onset.

Discovery of τ Neutrino Appearance in the CNGS Neutrino Beam with the OPERA Experiment

The OPERA experiment was designed to search for ν_{μ}→ν_{τ} oscillations in appearance mode, i.e., by detecting the τ leptons produced in charged current ν_{τ} interactions. The experiment took data from 2008 to 2012 in the CERN Neutrinos to Gran Sasso beam. The observation of the ν_{μ}→ν_{τ} appearance, achieved with four candidate events in a subsample of the data, was previously reported. In this Letter, a fifth ν_{τ} candidate event, found in an enlarged data sample, is described. Together with a further reduction of the expected background, the candidate events detected so far allow us to assess the discovery of ν_{μ}→ν_{τ} oscillations in appearance mode with a significance larger than 5σ.

Effect of aerobic exercise training followed by a low-calorie diet on metabolic syndrome risk factors in men

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Whether low-volume, high-intensity, interval training (HIIT) is an adequate exercise method for improving metabolic risk factors is controversial. Moreover, it is not known if performing a short-term, low-calorie diet intervention (LCDi) after a HIIT program affects risk factors. This study investigated how an 8-week, 3 times/week exercise intervention (EXi) incorporating either HIIT or moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) followed by a 4-week LCDi affects risk factors.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Twenty-six male workers with metabolic risk factors (47.4 ± 7.1 years; cardiorespiratory capacity (VO2peak) of 28.5 ± 3.9 ml/kg/min) were randomly assigned to either the HIIT (3 sets of 3-min cycling with a 2-min active rest between sets, 180 kcal) or MICT (45 min, 360 kcal) group. After the EXi, all subjects participated in a 4-week LCDi (4 counseling sessions). During the EXi, VO2peak improved more (P < 0.05) through HIIT (25.4 ± 14.6%) than through MICT (14.9 ± 12.8%), whereas improvements in body fat and HDL cholesterol were similar. During the LCDi, some risk factors improved further (P < 0.05) without any group differences, while VO2peak in the HIIT group decreased (P < 0.05) to the same level as in the MICT group.

CONCLUSION

VO2peak increased more with HIIT than with MICT during the EXi despite HIIT having a lower exercise volume than MICT, but this advantage of HIIT promptly disappeared through detraining. An intervention strategy consisting of 8 weeks of either HIIT or MICT followed by a 4-week LCDi has a positive effect on metabolic risk factors.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

UMIN11352.

Role of the tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor-type zinc finger domain containing protein 1 (TRAFD1) from the hard tick Haemaphysalis longicornis in immunity against bacterial infection

A tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor-type zinc finger domain containing protein 1 (TRAFD1) is a negative feedback regulator that controls excessive immune responses in vertebrates. The sequence of tick hemolymph TRAFD1 from the hard tick Haemaphysalis longicornis (HlTRAFD1) was analyzed after identification and cloning from the expressed sequence tag database. RT-PCR and Western blot analyses showed that HlTRAFD1 transcript and protein levels after blood feeding were present in all developmental stages, and the transcript level was consistently high in all organs examined from adult female ticks upon engorgement. Knockdown of HlTRAFD1 gene by RNA interference did not affect blood feeding or oviposition. However, HlTRAFD1 silencing affected the expression of the longicin gene, a defensin-like molecule, but not the lysozyme gene. Moreover, the survival rate of HlTRAFD1-silenced ticks was lower, and the number of E. coli was higher in the hemolymph and plasmatocytes after E. coli injection compared to the control group. These results suggested that HlTRAFD1 strongly affected both the humoral and cellular immunity of ticks.

Evaluation of Eimeria krijgsmanni as a murine model for testing the efficacy of anti-parasitic agents

Murine Eimeria spp. have been used as effective models of disease instead of large mammalian hosts such as cattle. We attempted to establish in vivo and in vitro assays using a murine intestinal protozoan, Eimeria krijgsmanni, which we previously isolated, to test anti-parasitic agents. Consequently, when mice were treated with sulfur drugs or toltrazuril, which are commercially available for livestock. Furthermore, sporulated oocysts and excysted sporozoites of E. krijgsmanni were treated with naturally occurring substances (lactoferrin, longicin, and curcumin). Although exposure to these substances did not affect oocyst infectivity, sporozoite viability decreased by 60% with longicin. However, direct injection of sporozoites treated with longicin into mice ceca did not result in any changes in the oocyst shedding pattern compared with control mice. The results suggest that E. krijgsmanni could be resistant to these anti-parasitic agents and might therefore have different characteristics to other apicomplexan parasites.

Cytoplasmic fine network and mitochondria in normal and abnormal cultured keratinocytes: an electron microscopic study using whole-cell observation technique

The cytoplasmic fine structures of both normal human cultured keratinocytes (NHK) and squamous cell carcinoma cells (HSC) were examined by electron microscopy using the whole-cell preparation method and stereo-viewing techniques. The presence of cytoplasmic fine network (CFN) was confirmed in both NHK and HSC, but the structures of the two were found to be radically different. In particular, the mitochondria showed a number of distinct morphological differences. The introduction of cytochalasin B and colchicine into HSC partially destroyed the CFN, and, as a result, the morphology of the HSC mitochondria changed to become similar to those of NHK. It seems that the CFN may have an important role in determining the shape of the cell organelles, such as mitochondria, and that the shape of the mitochondria may perhaps be used as an indication of cell malignancy.

Catechins inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor production and cyclooxygenase-2 expression in human dental pulp cells

AIM

To investigate the effect of catechins on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in human dental pulp cells (HDPC) stimulated with bacteria-derived factors or pro-inflammatory cytokines.

METHODOLOGY

Morphologically fibroblastic cells established from explant cultures of healthy human dental pulp tissues were used as HDPC. HDPC pre-treated with catechins, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) or epicatechin gallate (ECG), were exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), peptidoglycan (PG), interlukin-1β (IL-1β) or tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). VEGF production was examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and COX-2 expression was assessed by immunoblot.

RESULTS

EGCG and ECG significantly reduced LPS- or PG-mediated VEGF production in the HDPC in a dose-dependent manner. EGCG also prevented IL-1β-mediated VEGF production. Although TNF-α did not enhance VEGF production in the dental pulp cells, treatment of 20 μg mL(-1) of EGCG decreased the level of VEGF. In addition, the catechins attenuated COX-2 expression induced by LPS and IL-1β.

CONCLUSIONS

The up-regulated VEGF and COX-2 expressions in the HDPC stimulated with these bacteria-derived factors or IL-1β were diminished by the treatment of EGCG and ECG. These findings suggest that the catechins may be beneficial as an anti-inflammatory tool of the treatment for pulpal inflammation.

Molecular and phylogenetic characterizations of an Eimeria krijgsmanni Yakimoff & Gouseff, 1938 (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) mouse intestinal protozoan parasite by partial 18S ribosomal RNA gene sequence analysis

Previously, we characterized an undocumented strain of Eimeria krijgsmanni by morphological and biological features. Here, we present a detailed molecular phylogenetic analysis of this organism. Namely, 18S ribosomal RNA gene (rDNA) sequences of E. krijgsmanni were analyzed to incorporate this species into a comprehensive Eimeria phylogeny. As a result, partial 18S rDNA sequence from E. krijgsmanni was successfully determined, and two different types, Type A and Type B, that differed by 1 base pair were identified. E. krijgsmanni was originally isolated from a single oocyst, and thus the result show that the two types might have allelic sequence heterogeneity in the 18S rDNA. Based on phylogenetic analyses, the two types of E. krijgsmanni 18S rDNA formed one of two clades among murine Eimeria spp.; these Eimeria clades reflected morphological similarity among the Eimeria spp. This is the third molecular phylogenetic characterization of a murine Eimeria spp. in addition to E. falciformis and E. papillata.

Effects of extracellular DNA from Candida albicans and pneumonia-related pathogens on Candida biofilm formation and hyphal transformation

AIMS

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of genomic DNA purified from Candida albicans and pneumonia-related pathogens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, on in vitro biofilm formation and morphological change of 3 Candida species (C. albicans, C. glabrata, and C. tropicalis).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Biofilm formation was evaluated by the crystal violet assay and colony-forming unit counts. Morphological characteristics of biofilms were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy and fluorescence microscopy. Addition of DNA at a low concentration (<1·0 μg ml(-1)) significantly increased biofilm mass of all three Candida species. In contrast, the addition of DNA at a high concentration (10 μg ml(-1)) decreased the biofilm mass. Interestingly, the formation of hyphae in a dense network of yeast cells was observed in C. albicans biofilms exposed to a low concentration of DNA (<1·0 μg ml(-1)).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings demonstrated that extracellular DNA (eDNA) plays a crucial role in Candida biofilm formation and suggested that eDNA may induce the morphological transition from yeast to hyphal growth form during C. albicans biofilm development.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

A novel therapy targeting eDNA may be applicable for Candida infection to decrease biofilm formation and hyphal formation.

Effects of dumb-bell exercise with and without energy restriction on resting metabolic rate, diet-induced thermogenesis and body composition in mildly obese women

The effects of dumb-bell exercise (aerobic-resistance exercise) with and without low calorie diet (LCD) therapy on resting metabolic rate (RMR), diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT) and body composition were studied in 12 mildly obese women aged 19-20 years. The subjects were randomly assigned to one of the following two groups: dumb-bell exercise with LCD (DEx + LCD group), and dumb-bell exercise only (DEx group). The subjects performed dumb-bell exercises with pairs of 2 kg dumb-bells every day after dinner for approximately 20 min. In the DEx + LCD group, subjects also received a liquid-formula diet based on a commercially available diet supplement, Micro Diet, for two of their three daily meals. Thus, they were restricted to approximately 4.18 MJ of energy intake per day for 12 weeks. Subjects underwent several measurements (body composition, RMR and DIT tests) before commencing the experiment and again after 12 weeks while still dieting. During the 12 week experimental period, body weight and body fat decreased significantly in both the DEx + LCD and the DEx groups without reducing fat free mass (FFM). The decreases in body weight and body fat were significantly larger in the LCD + DEx group than in the DEx group. These results suggest that dumb-bell exercise decreases body weight and body fat without reducing FFM in relation to increasing RMR and DIT. Micro Diet LCD may strengthen the effect of dumb-bell exercise on body weight and body fat, but weaken the effects on RMR and DIT.