Femtosecond diffraction studies of solid and liquid phase changes in shock-compressed bismuth

Bismuth has long been a prototypical system for investigating phase transformations and melting at high pressure. Despite decades of experimental study, however, the lattice-level response of Bi to rapid (shock) compression and the relationship between structures occurring dynamically and those observed during slow (static) compression, are still not clearly understood. We have determined the structural response of shock-compressed Bi to 68 GPa using femtosecond X-ray diffraction, thereby revealing the phase transition sequence and equation-of-state in unprecedented detail for the first time. We show that shocked-Bi exhibits a marked departure from equilibrium behavior - the incommensurate Bi-III phase is not observed, but rather a new metastable phase, and the Bi-V phase is formed at significantly lower pressures compared to static compression studies. We also directly measure structural changes in a shocked liquid for the first time. These observations reveal new behaviour in the solid and liquid phases of a shocked material and give important insights into the validity of comparing static and dynamic datasets.

Setup for meV-resolution inelastic X-ray scattering measurements and X-ray diffraction at the Matter in Extreme Conditions endstation at the Linac Coherent Light Source

We describe a setup for performing inelastic X-ray scattering and X-ray diffraction measurements at the Matter in Extreme Conditions (MEC) endstation of the Linac Coherent Light Source. This technique is capable of performing high-, meV-resolution measurements of dynamic ion features in both crystalline and non-crystalline materials. A four-bounce silicon (533) monochromator was used in conjunction with three silicon (533) diced crystal analyzers to provide an energy resolution of ∼50 meV over a range of ∼500 meV in single shot measurements. In addition to the instrument resolution function, we demonstrate the measurement of longitudinal acoustic phonon modes in polycrystalline diamond. Furthermore, this setup may be combined with the high intensity laser drivers available at MEC to create warm dense matter and subsequently measure ion acoustic modes.

A high-resolution anorectal manometry parameter based on integrated pressurized volume: A study based on 204 male patients with constipation and 26 controls

BACKGROUND

Conventional anorectal manometric parameters based on linear waves cannot properly predict balloon expulsion (BE) time. We aimed to determine the correlation between integrated pressurized volume (IPV) parameters during simulated evacuation (SE) and BE time in healthy individuals and constipated patients and to assess the correlation between each parameter and symptoms.

METHODS

A total of 230 male participants (including 26 healthy volunteers and 204 chronically constipated patients) underwent high-resolution anorectal manometry (HRAM) and BE tests. The IPV was calculated by multiplying the amplitude, distance, and time from the HRAM profile. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis and partial least square regression (PLSR) were performed.

KEY RESULTS

ROC analysis indicated that the IPV ratio between the upper 1 cm and lower 4 cm of the anal canal was more effective for predicting BE time (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.74, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.67-0.80, P < .01) than the conventional anorectal parameters, including defecation index and rectoanal gradient (AUC: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.52-0.67, P = .01). PLSR analysis of a linear combination of IPV parameters yielded an AUC of 0.79. Moreover, the IPV ratio showed a greater clinical correlation with patient symptoms than conventional parameters.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

The IPV parameters and the combination of IPV parameters via PLSR were more significantly correlated with BE time than the conventional parameters. Thus, this study presents a useful diagnostic tool for the evaluation of pathophysiologic abnormalities in dyssynergic defecation using IPV and BE time.

Absolute Equation-of-State Measurement for Polystyrene from 25 to 60 Mbar Using a Spherically Converging Shock Wave

We have developed an experimental platform for the National Ignition Facility that uses spherically converging shock waves for absolute equation-of-state (EOS) measurements along the principal Hugoniot. In this Letter, we present one indirect-drive implosion experiment with a polystyrene sample that employs radiographic compression measurements over a range of shock pressures reaching up to 60 Mbar (6 TPa). This significantly exceeds previously published results obtained on the Nova laser [R. Cauble et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 80, 1248 (1998)PRLTAO0031-900710.1103/PhysRevLett.80.1248] at a strongly improved precision, allowing us to discriminate between different EOS models. We find excellent agreement with Kohn-Sham density-functional-theory-based molecular dynamics simulations.

Effect of maternally derived antibody on sequential infection with highly virulent bursal disease virus in newly hatched broilers

Maternally derived antibodies (MDAs) are important for protection against very virulent infectious bursal disease virus (vvIBDV). In this study, 5-day-old commercial broilers with non-uniform MDA titers (with a coefficient of variation of 50%) were challenged with vvIBDV and given free contact with each other during a 2-week period. The chicks were assigned to four MDA-titer subgroups, GI-1 (very low MDA), GI-2 (low MDA), GI-3 (medium MDA), and GI-4 (high MDA). Transient symptoms of infection were observed in 35.7% of challenged birds. Body weight gain was significantly lower in GI-2, GI-3, and GI-4 birds than in an unchallenged control group. Seroconversion was observed in GI-1 birds and some GI-2 birds. The frequency of virus shedding via the cloaca in vvIBDV-challenged birds increased from 7.1% of GI birds at 5 days post inoculation (dpi) to 35.7% at 14 dpi. The timing of virus shedding was progressively later from GI-1 to GI-4. At 14 dpi, significant atrophy of the bursa of Fabricius (BF) was observed in GI birds compared with GII controls; atrophy was most severe in GI-1 birds and least severe in GI-4 birds. BF lesion scores decreased from GI-1 to GI-4. The proportion of birds with IBDV antigen in the BF at 14 dpi was higher in GI-2 and GI-3 than in GI-1 and GI-4, whereas the viral load in positive birds increased from GI-1 to GI-4. Our results indicate that high levels of MDAs would protect chicks from initial vvIBDV infection but that progressive decay of these MDAs would result in delayed infection by virus shedding in initially infected birds with low MDA titers, resulting in continuous circulation of the virus in a flock with non-uniform MDA titers.

Femtosecond X-Ray Diffraction Studies of the Reversal of the Microstructural Effects of Plastic Deformation during Shock Release of Tantalum

We have used femtosecond x-ray diffraction to study laser-shocked fiber-textured polycrystalline tantalum targets as the 37-253 GPa shock waves break out from the free surface. We extract the time and depth-dependent strain profiles within the Ta target as the rarefaction wave travels back into the bulk of the sample. In agreement with molecular dynamics simulations, the lattice rotation and the twins that are formed under shock compression are observed to be almost fully eliminated by the rarefaction process.

Comparative Pathogenicity of Malaysian QX-like and Variant Infectious Bronchitis Virus Strains in Chickens at Different Age of Exposure to the Viruses

Infectious bronchitis viruses (IBVs) circulating in Malaysia are classified into two groups as Malaysian QX-like and variant strains. In this study, the pathogenicity of IBS130/2015 (QX-like) and IBS037A/2014 (variant) IBVs in 1-day-old and 30-day-old specific pathogen free (SPF) chickens was characterized. Both strains caused respiratory and kidney infections based on immunohistochemistry (IHC), real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and a ciliostasis study; however, the results showed that the QX-like strain was more pathogenic, caused higher mortality and showed higher tissue tropism for the kidney than the variant strain. In contrast, despite causing low or no mortality depending on the age of the infected chickens, the Malaysian variant strain showed high tissue tropism for the respiratory tract compared with the QX-like strain. IHC and qPCR indicated the presence of both IBV strains in the epithelial lining of villi in the jejunum and the caecal tonsil; however, no pathological changes were detected in these organs. Both the Malaysian QX-like and variant IBV strains are able to infect the respiratory tract and kidney of chickens irrespective of age.

Characterizing conditioned reactivity to sequential alcohol-predictive cues in well-trained rats

Implicit learning about antecedent stimuli and the unconditional stimulus (US) properties of alcohol may facilitate the progressive loss of control over drinking. To model this learning, Cofresí et al. (2017) developed a procedure in which a discrete, visual conditional stimulus (houselight illumination; CS) predicted the availability of a retractable sipper that rats could lick to receive unsweetened alcohol [Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research, 41, 608-617]. Here we investigated the possibility that houselight illumination, sipper presentation, and oral alcohol receipt might each exert control over alcohol seeking and drinking. We also determined the relationship between ingested dose and blood alcohol concentration, in order to validate the idea that the US is a post-ingestive action of alcohol. Finally, we tested a major prediction from the conditioning account of problematic drinking [Tomie, A., & Sharma, N. (2013). Current Drug Abuse Reviews, 6, 201-219], which is that once learned, responses elicited by a CS will promote drinking. We found that despite having constrained opportunities to drink alcohol during the conditioning procedure, ingested doses produced discriminable blood concentrations that supported cue conditioning. Based on our analysis of the dynamics of cue reactivity in well-trained rats, we found that houselight illumination triggered conditioned approach, sipper presentation evoked licking behavior, and alcohol receipt promoted drinking. Reactivity to these cues, which varied in terms of their temporal proximity to the alcohol US, persisted despite progressive intoxication or satiety. Additionally, rats with the greatest conditioned reactivity to the most distal alcohol cue were also the fastest to initiate drinking and drank the most. Our findings indicate that the post-ingestive effects of alcohol may condition multiple cues simultaneously in adult rats, and these multiple cues help to trigger alcohol seeking and drinking. Moreover, identification and characterization of these cues should be helpful for designing interventions that attenuate the power of these cues over behavior.

The impact of robotic surgery on quality of life, urinary and sexual function following total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer: a propensity score-matched analysis with laparoscopic surgery

AIM

Quality of life (QoL) and functional outcomes are at risk of being impaired after rectal surgery, but there has been no large prospective study to thoroughly assess QoL according to surgical approach. We have investigated the impact of laparoscopic and robotic total mesorectal excision (TME) on QoL and functional outcomes.

METHOD

Patients undergoing laparoscopic or robotic TME for rectal cancer between 2009 and 2013 were prospectively included in this questionnaire-based survey of QoL together with variations in urinary and sexual function. A propensity score analysis was retrospectively conducted to compare outcomes between groups in a cohort matched 1:1 for age, sex, body mass index, preoperative chemoradiation status and tumour height. The survey was performed preoperatively and 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery.

RESULTS

Global health status/QoL was similar between the two groups for 130 matched pairs, but the robotic group showed better role, emotional and social functioning and experienced less fatigue and financial difficulty. International Prostatic Symptom Scores in men increased postoperatively, with significantly less impairment in the robotic group at 6 months. These scores were comparable to preoperative scores at 6 months in the robotic group and at 12 months in the laparoscopic group. Of 48 sexually active men in each group, International Index of Erectile Function-5 scores decreased postoperatively, returning to preoperative levels at 6 months in the robotic group and at 12 months in the laparoscopic groups.

CONCLUSION

The robotic approach for TME was associated with less impairment of urinary and sexual function; QoL was comparable to the laparoscopic approach.

First Report of the Korean Lung Transplantation Registry

BACKGROUND

The Korean Organ Transplantation Registry (KOTRY) began to register lung transplants in 2015. This is an initial report on the status of patients receiving lung transplants over the past 2 years.

METHODS

We analyzed a total of 69 patients who received lung transplants in 2015 and 2016 and who registered with the KOTRY.

RESULTS

The 69 patients were treated in 5 institutions. The average (SD) donor age was 39.2 (12.6) years; there were 40 male patients. The average (SD) recipient age was 55.7 (10.0) years, and the number of male recipients was 46. A total of 66 patients underwent bilateral lung transplantation, 3 underwent single-lung transplantation, and 1 underwent simultaneous heart-lung transplantation. The most frequent indication for lung transplantation was idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (35 patients), followed by connective tissue disease-related interstitial lung disease (9) and acute respiratory failure (8). Prior to transplantation, 23 patients required ventilator care, and 12 required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation while on the waiting list. Episodes of acute rejection during follow-up were reported in 4, 2, 1, and 1 patients at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, respectively. Infections requiring hospitalization were reported in 27, 10, 4, and 3 patients at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The establishment of KOTRY renders it possible to collect nationwide data on lung transplantation, improving research on the topic and clarifying clinical feasibility.

Preparation of rare earth oxides from Synchysite oxidized ore by acid leaching

Mixed rare earth oxides have been prepared from synchysite ore from the Lugiin gol rare earth deposit (Mongolia) which contains about 6% of cerium light rare earth elements. Ore powders were leached for up to 60 min using 80-120 g/l sulfuric acids at an acid to powder ratio of 20, agitation was performed by magnetic stirring followed by precipitation and calcination at 700°C for 1h. The highest leaching of REEs equal to 85% of the total REE was observed in the acid solution of 80 g/l. Obtained mixed rare earth oxides represent a layered type structure.

A sensitive EUV Schwarzschild microscope for plasma studies with sub-micrometer resolution

We present an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) microscope using a Schwarzschild objective which is optimized for single-shot sub-micrometer imaging of laser-plasma targets. The microscope has been designed and constructed for imaging the scattering from an EUV-heated solid-density hydrogen jet. Imaging of a cryogenic hydrogen target was demonstrated using single pulses of the free-electron laser in Hamburg (FLASH) free-electron laser at a wavelength of 13.5 nm. In a single exposure, we observe a hydrogen jet with ice fragments with a spatial resolution in the sub-micrometer range. In situ EUV imaging is expected to enable novel experimental capabilities for warm dense matter studies of micrometer-sized samples in laser-plasma experiments.

Clinical impact of delayed catheter removal for patients with central-venous-catheter-related Gram-negative bacteraemia

BACKGROUND

Gram-negative bacteria are increasingly the cause of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI), and the prevalence of multi-drug-resistant strains is rising rapidly. This study evaluated the impact of delayed central venous catheter (CVC) removal on clinical outcomes in patients with Gram-negative CRBSI.

METHODS

Between January 2007 and December 2016, patients with Gram-negative bacteraemia and CVC placement, from two tertiary care hospitals, were included retrospectively. Cases with CVC removal more than three days after onset of bacteraemia or without CVC removal were classified as having delayed CVC removal.

RESULTS

In total, 112 patients were included. Of these, 78 had CRBSI (43 definite and 35 probable) and 34 had Gram-negative bacteraemia from another source (non-CRBSI). Enterobacteriaceae were less common pathogens in patients with CRBSI than in patients with non-CRBSI (11.5% vs 41.3%; P<0.001). Delayed CVC removal was associated with increased 30-day mortality (40.5% vs 11.8%; P=0.01) in patients with Gram-negative CRBSI; this was not seen in patients with non-CRBSI (25.0% vs 14.3%; P>0.99). Delayed CVC removal [odds ratio (OR) 6.8], multi-drug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteraemia (OR 6.3) and chronic renal failure (OR 11.1) were associated with 30-day mortality in patients with CRBSI. The protective effect of early CVC removal on mortality was evident in the MDR group (48.3% vs 18.2%; P=0.03), but not in the non-MDR group (11.1% vs 0%; P=0.43).

CONCLUSION

CVCs should be removed early to improve clinical outcomes in patients with Gram-negative CRBSI, especially in settings where MDR isolates are prevalent.

Acute Abdomen in a Cervical Spinal Cord Injury Patient: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Acute abdomen, including appendicitis, is an emergent condition requiring early detection and, often, immediate surgical intervention. Although patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) have an incidence of acute abdomen similar to that of the general population, diagnosing them is even more difficult and complex than it is in the general population. Because of the disruption of normal sensory pathways, the early symptoms are subtle and physical examination of the abdomen is often not helpful. In addition, because of concomitant common conditions in SCI patients, such as urinary tract infection, atelectasis, pneumonia, and decubitus ulcer, laboratory results are not reliable. Delayed diagnoses lead to higher mortality rates among SCI patients with acute abdomen than those of the general population. We report a case of appendicitis in a patient with cervical SCI and discuss the clinical characteristics and diagnostic pitfalls of acute abdomen in SCI patients.

Acute toxicity of organic antifouling biocides to phytoplankton Nitzschia pungens and zooplankton Artemia larvae

The toxicity of the antifouling biocides Irgarol 1051, Diuron, Chlorothalonil, Dichlofluanid, Sea-nine 211, Copper pyrithione, Zinc pyrithione, Ziram and Zineb were evaluated on Nitzschia pungens and Artemia larvae. Results showed that EC₅₀ for Irgarol 1051 was 0.586μgl^-1 was the strongest effect on N. pungens following by Copper pyrithione (4.908μgl^-1), Ziram (5.421μgl^-1), Zinc pyrithione (5.513μgl^-1), Diuron (6.640μgl^-1), Zineb (232.249μgl^-1), Sea-nine 211(267.368μgl^-1), Chlorothalonil (360.963μgl^-1) and Dichlofluanid (377.010μgl^-1) in 96h. In Artemia larvae, the biocides were evaluated the LC₅₀ for larval survivals at 48h. Sea-nine 211 and Copper pyrithione were 0.318 and 0.319mgl^-1. Chlorothalonil, Zinc pyrithione and Ziram were 2.683, 3.147 and 4.778mgl^-1. Irgarol 1051, Diuron, Zineb and Dichlofluanid were 9.734, 30.573, 41.170 and 154.944mgl^-1. These results provide baseline data concerning the toxicity of antifouling biocides against marine environment.

Time-resolved diffraction of shock-released SiO2 and diaplectic glass formation

Understanding how rock-forming minerals transform under shock loading is critical for modeling collisions between planetary bodies, interpreting the significance of shock features in minerals and for using them as diagnostic indicators of impact conditions, such as shock pressure. To date, our understanding of the formation processes experienced by shocked materials is based exclusively on ex situ analyses of recovered samples. Formation mechanisms and origins of commonly observed mesoscale material features, such as diaplectic (i.e., shocked) glass, remain therefore controversial and unresolvable. Here we show in situ pump-probe X-ray diffraction measurements on fused silica crystallizing to stishovite on shock compression and then converting to an amorphous phase on shock release in only 2.4 ns from 33.6 GPa. Recovered glass fragments suggest permanent densification. These observations of real-time diaplectic glass formation attest that it is a back-transformation product of stishovite with implications for revising traditional shock metamorphism stages.

Our understanding of shock metamorphism and thus the collision of planetary bodies is limited by a dependence on ex situ analyses. Here, the authors perform in situ analysis on shocked-produced densified glass and show that estimates of impactor size based on traditional techniques are likely inflated.

Retention Improvement in Fluoride Application with Cold Atmospheric Plasma

This study aimed to apply fluoride formulations to enamel with cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) and analyze the fluoride uptake, retention, and acid resistance quantitatively. Human enamel specimens were divided randomly into 2 groups: group APF1, 1.23% acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gel; group APF2, 1.23% APF gel with CAP. Fluoride and CAP were applied to the samples 4 times at 1-wk intervals. The specimens were also stored in artificial saliva for 4 wk to evaluate the retention of fluoride. The fluoride content on the fluoride-treated enamel was measured by an electron probe microanalyzer. To detect the resistance to demineralization, the calcium-to-phosphate ratio of the enamel samples was measured after the application of APF gel with or without CAP, followed by soaking in the demineralization solution. In groups APF1 and APF2, the amount of fluoride detected increased depending on the application frequency, and more fluoride was detected in group APF2 than in group APF1. In the experiment examining the maintenance effect, fluoride was not detected in group APF1, whereas fluoride was detected in group APF2 up to the fourth week. As for the resistance to demineralization, the calcium-to-phosphate ratio of the enamel treated with APF and CAP was higher than that treated with APF alone, and it increased with the frequency of treatment. This study suggests that the combination treatment of CAP and fluoride improves retention of fluoride on the enamel and resistance to demineralization when compared with treatment with fluoride alone.

Compression Freezing Kinetics of Water to Ice VII

Time-resolved x-ray diffraction (XRD) of compressed liquid water shows transformation to ice VII in 6 nsec, revealing crystallization rather than amorphous solidification during compression freezing. Application of classical nucleation theory indicates heterogeneous nucleation and one-dimensional (e.g., needlelike) growth. These first XRD data demonstrate rapid growth kinetics of ice VII with implications for fundamental physics of diffusion-mediated crystallization and thermodynamic modeling of collision or impact events on ice-rich planetary bodies.

Anti-inflammatory potential of a heat-killed Lactobacillus strain isolated from Kimchi on house dust mite-induced atopic dermatitis in NC/Nga mice

AIMS

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is an allergic skin disease driven by the Th2-prone immune response. Therefore, a fundamental approach to restoring the Th1/Th2 balance is needed to treat AD.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Eighteen different Lactobacillus strains isolated from Kimchi were screened to identify those that stimulated immune cells to secret Th1-type or Th2-type cytokines. Lactobacillus brevis NS1401 induced the greatest IFN-γ and IL-12 secretion and the least IL-4 production among the tested Lactobacillus strains. Furthermore, oral administration of heat-killed NS1401 ameliorated the symptoms of dust mite-induced AD in NC/Nga mice by decreasing the serum IgE level and reducing the number of mast cells and eosinophils in lesions. Also, the size and number of cells in the draining lymph nodes of NS1401-administered mice were significantly reduced. In agreement with these results, secretion of a Th1-type cytokine (IFN-γ) and allergen-specific IgG2a were increased, whereas secretion of Th2-type cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-10) and allergen-specific IgG1 were decreased upon administration of NS1401 in mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Lactobacillus brevis NS1401 alleviates the symptoms of AD by restoring the Th1/Th2 balance through enhancing Th1-prone immunity.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The immunomodulatory function of L. brevis NS1401 may provide effective new therapeutics against AD.

Daily consumption of methylene blue reduces attentional deficits and dopamine reduction in a 6-OHDA model of Parkinson's disease

Recently, alternative drug therapies for Parkinson's disease (PD) have been investigated as there are many shortcomings of traditional dopamine-based therapies including difficulties in treating cognitive and attentional dysfunction. A promising therapeutic avenue is to target mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress in PD. One option might be the use of methylene blue (MB), an antioxidant and metabolic enhancer. MB has been shown to improve cognitive function in both intact rodents and rodent disease models. Therefore, we investigated whether MB might treat attentional deficits in a rat model of PD induced by 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). MB also has neuroprotective capabilities against neurotoxic insult, so we also assessed the ability of MB to provide neuroprotection in our PD model. The results show that MB could preserve some dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra par compacta when 6-OHDA was infused into the medial forebrain bundle. This neuroprotection did not yield a significant behavioral improvement when motor functions were measured. However, MB significantly improved attentional performance in the five-choice task designed to measure selective and sustained attention. In conclusion, MB might be useful in improving some attentional function and preserving dopaminergic cells in this model. Future work should continue to study and optimize the abilities of MB for the treatment of PD.

Single-stage cell-based cartilage repair in a rabbit model: cell tracking and in vivo chondrogenesis of human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells and hyaluronic acid hydrogel composite

OBJECTIVE

Human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUCB-MSCs) have gained popularity as a promising cell source for regenerative medicine, but limited in vivo studies have reported cartilage repair. In addition, the roles of MSCs in cartilage repair are not well-understood. The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of transplanting hUCB-MSCs and hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogel composite to repair articular cartilage defects in a rabbit model and determine whether the transplanted cells persisted or disappeared from the defect site.

DESIGN

Osteochondral defects were created in the trochlear grooves of the knees. The hUCB-MSCs and HA composite was transplanted into the defect of experimental knees. Control knees were transplanted by HA or left untreated. Animals were sacrificed at 8 and 16 weeks post-transplantation and additionally at 2 and 4 weeks to evaluate the fate of transplanted cells. The repair tissues were evaluated by gross, histological and immunohistochemical analysis.

RESULTS

Transplanting hUCB-MSCs and HA composite resulted in overall superior cartilage repair tissue with better quality than HA alone or no treatment. Cellular architecture and collagen arrangement at 16 weeks were similar to those of surrounding normal articular cartilage tissue. Histological scores also revealed that cartilage repair in experimental knees was better than that in control knees. Immunohistochemical analysis with anti-human nuclear antibody confirmed that the transplanted MSCs disappeared gradually over time.

CONCLUSION

Transplanting hUCB-MSCs and HA composite promote cartilage repair and interactions between hUCB-MSCs and host cells initiated by paracrine action may play an important role in cartilage repair.

Early complications after percutaneous radiofrequency ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma: an analysis of 1,843 ablations in 1,211 patients in a single centre: experience over 10 years

AIM

To evaluate the incidence of adverse events and associated factors after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma within 30 days.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The early complications that occurred within 30 days after RFA at a single institution from January 2000 to July 2010 were reviewed in order to evaluate the morbidity, mortality, and risk factors associated with the complications. In total, 1,211 patients (845 men, 70.5%) with a mean age of 68 years (range, 27-88 years) underwent 1,843 RFA procedures.

RESULTS

The overall incidence rate of complications was 6.8% (125 cases). Major complications (n=36, 2%) included liver abscess (n=15, 0.8%), intraperitoneal bleeding (n=8, 0.4%), liver failure (n=5, 0.3%), variceal bleeding (n=3, 0.2%), haemothorax (n=2, 0.1%), cholecystitis (n=2, 0.1%), and bowel perforation (n=1, 0.1%). Among the minor complications (n=89, 4.8%), the most common was the post RFA syndrome accompanied by pain and fever (n=75, 4.1%). Other minor complications included significant pleural effusion (n=7, 0.4%), skin wound infection (n=4, 0.2%), and thermal injuries to the skin (n=3, 0.2%). Procedural infections significantly increased with tumour size (OR=1.379; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.191-1.579; p<0.001), and multiple overlapping ablations (OR=1.118; 95% CI, 1.019-1.227, p=0.018). Thrombocytopenia (<50,000/μl), prothrombin time, and serum albumin level were significantly associated with post-RFA bleeding episodes (p=0.041, p=0.021, and p=0.003, respectively). The overall mortality rate was 0.3% (three cases of hepatic failure, two case of sepsis, and one case of renal failure).

CONCLUSIONS

RFA is a safe and effective local treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma. Careful selection of patients and appropriate RFA planning could decrease procedural mortality and morbidity.

Abstract P6-07-23: The ELK3 expression is positively associated with interferon signaling molecules in triple-negative breast cancer

This abstract was withdrawn by the authors.

Postretrieval Extinction Attenuates Alcohol Cue Reactivity in Rats

BACKGROUND

Conditioned responses to alcohol-associated cues can hinder recovery from alcohol use disorder (AUD). Cue exposure (extinction) therapy (CET) can reduce reactivity to alcohol cues, but its efficacy is limited by phenomena such as spontaneous recovery and reinstatement that can cause a return of conditioned responding after extinction. Using a preclinical model of alcohol cue reactivity in rats, we evaluated whether the efficacy of alcohol CET could be improved by conducting CET during the memory reconsolidation window after retrieval of cue-alcohol associations.

METHODS

Rats were provided with intermittent access to unsweetened alcohol. Rats were then trained to predict alcohol access based on a visual cue. Next, rats were treated with either standard extinction (n = 14) or postretrieval extinction (n = 13). Rats were then tested for long-term memory of extinction and susceptibility to spontaneous recovery and reinstatement.

RESULTS

Despite equivalent extinction, rats treated with postretrieval extinction exhibited reduced spontaneous recovery and reinstatement relative to rats treated with standard extinction.

CONCLUSIONS

Postretrieval CET shows promise for persistently attenuating the risk to relapse posed by alcohol cues in individuals with AUD.

Non-structural cancellous bone graft and headless compression screw fixation for treatment of scaphoid waist non-union

PURPOSE

Scaphoid fracture commonly occurs around the mid-third of the scaphoid, and non-union of this fracture has several treatment options. The authors performed autologous cancellous bone graft from the iliac crest and headless compression screw fixation for the treatment of Mack-Lichtman type II scaphoid waist non-union. The purpose of this study was to determine whether this procedure was effective in achieving bony union and restoration of alignment.

METHODS

Medical records and radiographs of 30 patients who underwent cancellous bone graft and headless compression screw fixation for non-union of scaphoid waist fracture were retrospectively reviewed. There were 28 men and 2 women, with a mean age of 32.8 years (range: 21-63). The mean time to surgery was 10 months (range: 3-25) and mean follow-up was 37.5 months (range: 15-52). The authors analyzed bony union, lateral intrascaphoid angle, scapholunate angle, radiolunate angle and scaphoid length on radiographs and evaluated the Modified Mayo wrist score (MMWS) as a functional outcome.

RESULTS

Bony union was achieved in all cases. The lateral intrascaphoid angle improved from 40° to 32° (P<0.001). The scapholunate angle also improved from 61° to 56° (P=0.009). The radiolunate angle decreased from 8° to 4° (P=0.048) and scaphoid length increased from 22mm to 26mm (P<0.001) postoperatively. Wrist motion and MMWS improved significantly at last follow-up. However, there were no significant differences between scaphoid deformity correction angle and pre- to post-operative difference in MMWS.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-structural autologous cancellous bone graft from the iliac crest and headless screw fixation provided reliable results and can be one of the effective treatment options for patients with symptomatic Mack-Lichtman type II non-union in the mid-third of the scaphoid.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Ultrafast X-Ray Diffraction Studies of the Phase Transitions and Equation of State of Scandium Shock Compressed to 82 GPa

Using x-ray diffraction at the Linac Coherent Light Source x-ray free-electron laser, we have determined simultaneously and self-consistently the phase transitions and equation of state (EOS) of the lightest transition metal, scandium, under shock compression. On compression scandium undergoes a structural phase transition between 32 and 35 GPa to the same bcc structure seen at high temperatures at ambient pressures, and then a further transition at 46 GPa to the incommensurate host-guest polymorph found above 21 GPa in static compression at room temperature. Shock melting of the host-guest phase is observed between 53 and 72 GPa with the disappearance of Bragg scattering and the growth of a broad asymmetric diffraction peak from the high-density liquid.

Association Interleukin-4 and Interleukin-4 Receptor Gene Polymorphism and Acute Rejection and Graft Dysfunction After Kidney Transplantation

BACKGROUND

Cytokine genotypes have previously been studied in patients undergoing solid organ transplantation; certain polymorphisms have been implicated in the development of acute rejection (AR) and graft dysfunction (GD). Allograft outcomes determined, in part, by alloimmune responses is mainly mediated by T-cell responses, activated and driven by cytokines. Interleukin-4 (IL-4) is one such cytokine, which exerts its biological effects through binding to the IL-4 receptor (IL-4R) complex on target cells. In the present study, we investigated whether polymorphisms of the IL-4 and/or IL-4R gene were associated with susceptibility to acute AR and GD after kidney transplantation.

METHODS

We analyzed 2 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) of IL-4 (rs2243250 and rs2070874) and 3 SNPs of IL-4R (rs1801275, rs2107356, and rs1805010) in 344 kidney transplant recipients. These patients included 62 of whom had developed AR and 215 of whom had GD in 1 year after kidney transplantation.

RESULTS

The AR group included 62 patients (45 men and 17 women). There was a statistically significant difference in the male-to-female ratio and the use of tacrolimus in the AR group. The GD group included 215 patients. Patients who developed GD were more likely to be older and have an underlying cause of end-stage renal disease that was unknown compared with patients who did not have GD, the cause of which was typically known. Among the SNPs examined, 1 of the SNPs in the IL-4R gene (ie, rs1801275) showed a statistical association with AR (co-dominant model, P = .061; dominant model, P = .019; and log-addictive model, P = .029). In addition, 1 of the IL-4R SNPs (ie, rs2107356) was statistically associated with GD (dominant model, P = .034). No significant difference in the IL-4 genotype was observed between the AR/GD and non-AR/non-GD subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

One IL-4R gene polymorphism (rs1801275) was associated with AR. In addition, a separate IL-4R SNP (rs2107356) was statistically associated with GD after kidney transplantation.

Raw ready-to-eat seafood safety: microbiological quality of the various seafood species available in fishery, hyper and online markets

Microbiological quality of 206 raw ready-to-eat seafood samples was investigated according to species (gizzard shad, halibut, rockfish, tuna, oyster and squid) and distribution channels (fishery, hyper and online market). Enumeration of aerobic plate count and total coliforms (TC) and pathogenic bacteria (Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus and Vibrio parahaemolyticus) was performed, and level of microbiological quality was classified into four groups: satisfactory, acceptable, unsatisfactory and unacceptable. Qualitative analysis was also performed for Escherichia coli and eight foodborne pathogens (B. cereus, E. coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., S. aureus, Vibrio cholerae, V. parahaemolyticus, and Vibrio vulnificus). Raw ready-to-eat seafood products revealed 0·5% at an unsatisfactory level and 4·9% at an unacceptable level due to ≥4 log CFU g^-1 of TC in squid and ≥3 log CFU g^-1 of V. parahaemolyticus in gizzard shad respectively. Gizzard shad was shown to be potentially hazardous, as its sashimi is eaten with its skin attached. Bacillus cereus, E. coli, S. aureus, V. parahaemolyticus and V. vulnificus were qualitatively detected. Samples from the fishery market showed higher detection rate especially in V. parahaemolyticus (21·6%) and V. vulnificus (1·7%) which indicates the need to improve microbiological safety of raw ready-to-eat seafood products in fishery market.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Raw ready-to-eat seafood products like sashimi can be easily contaminated with various bacteria from aquatic environments and human reservoirs, which subsequently bring about a risk in food poisoning due to no heating process before consumption. The results of this study provide comprehensive microbiological data on various species of raw ready-to-eat seafood from various distribution channels. It may contribute to establish reasonable standard and effective strategies to ensure a good microbiological quality of raw ready-to-eat seafood for the safety of meals, like sashimi and sushi.

RADIATION DOSE MEASUREMENTS FOR HIGH-INTENSITY LASER INTERACTIONS WITH SOLID TARGETS AT SLAC

A systematic study of photon and neutron radiation doses generated in high-intensity laser-solid interactions is underway at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. These laser-solid experiments are being performed using a 25 TW (up to 1 J in 40 fs) femtosecond pulsed Ti:sapphire laser at the Linac Coherent Light Source's (LCLS) Matter in Extreme Conditions (MEC) facility. Radiation measurements were performed with passive and active detectors deployed at various locations inside and outside the target chamber. Results from radiation dose measurements for laser-solid experiments at SLAC MEC in 2014 with peak intensity between 10¹⁸ and 7.1 × 10¹⁹ W cm^-2 are presented.

Acute exercise regulates adipogenic gene expression in white adipose tissue

White adipose tissue expansion is associated with both hypertrophy and hyperplasia of adipocytes. Exercise training results in adipocyte hypotrophy by activating lipolysis, but it is poorly understood whether exercise regulates adipogenesis by altering adipogenic gene expression. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a single bout of swimming exercise on adipogenic gene expression in white adipose tissue (WAT). Male C57BL/6J mice were divided into two groups: a sedentary control group and a 120-minute swimming exercise group. Immediately after acute exercise, adipogenic gene expression in WAT was analysed by RT-PCR, and tdTomato positive cells in WAT from UCP1-cre-tdTomato mice were observed under a confocal microscope. In epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT), PPARγ2 and C/EBPα expression at the mRNA level was significantly decreased with high induction of Wnt10b and KLFs (KLF2, KLF3, KLF7, KLF6, KLF9 and KLF15), whereas PPARγ2, not C/EBPα, was decreased with high induction of Wnt6 and KLFs (KLF2, KLF3, KLF7, KLF6 and KLF9) in inguinal white adipose tissue (iWAT) after acute exercise. The expression of C/EBPβ and C/EBPδ was upregulated in both WATs with a high level of PGC-1α expression. Expression level of UCP1 was increased only in adipocytes of eWAT, while beige cell specific gene expression was comparable between groups and tdTomato positive cells were not found in WAT of UCP1-cre-tdTomato reporter mouse immediately after acute exercise. These results suggest that acute exercise suppresses adipogenic gene expression and may regulate thermogenesis by activating C/EBPβ, PGC-1α and UCP1 in WAT.

High resolution x-ray Thomson scattering measurements from cryogenic hydrogen jets using the linac coherent light source

We present the first spectrally resolved measurements of x-rays scattered from cryogenic hydrogen jets in the single photon counting limit. The 120 Hz capabilities of the LCLS, together with a novel hydrogen jet design [J. B. Kim et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. (these proceedings)], allow for the ability to record a near background free spectrum. Such high-dynamic-range x-ray scattering measurements enable a platform to study ultra-fast, laser-driven, heating dynamics of hydrogen plasmas. This measurement has been achieved using two highly annealed pyrolytic graphite crystal spectrometers to spectrally resolve 5.5 keV x-rays elastically and inelastically scattered from cryogenic hydrogen and focused on Cornell-SLAC pixel array detectors [S. Herrmann et al., Nucl. Instrum. Methods Phys. Res., Sect. A 718, 550 (2013)].

A randomized, multi-center, open-label, phase III study of once-per-cycle DA-3031, a pegylated G-CSF, in comparison with daily filgrastim in patients receiving TAC chemotherapy for breast cancer

PURPOSE

This multi-center, randomized, phase III study was conducted to demonstrate the non-inferiority of DA-3031 compared with daily filgrastim in patients during the first cycle of chemotherapy for breast cancer in terms of the duration of severe neutropenia (DSN).

METHODS

Seventy-four patients with breast cancer who were receiving combination chemotherapy with docetaxel, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide (TAC) were enrolled. All participants were randomized to receive either daily subcutaneous injections of filgrastim 100 μg/m²/day for up to 10 days or a single subcutaneous injection of DA-3031 at fixed doses of 6 mg on day 2 of each chemotherapy cycle.

RESULTS

The mean duration of grade 4 (G4) neutropenia in cycle 1 was 2.08 ± 0.85 days for the filgrastim group and 2.28 ± 1.14 days for the DA-3031 group. The difference between groups was 0.2 ± 1.10 days (95 % confidence interval (CI) = -0.26, 0.66), which supported non-inferiority. No statistically significant differences were observed in nadir absolute neutrophil count (ANC) (154.34/mm³ and 161.75/mm³ for the filgrastim and DA-3031 groups, respectively; P = 0.8414) or in time to ANC recovery (10.03 ± 0.75 and 9.83 ± 1.56 days in the filgrastim and DA-3031 groups, respectively; P = 0.0611) during cycle 1. Serious AEs occurred in six (15.8 %) patients receiving filgrastim and in ten (27.8 %) patients receiving DA-3031; however, none was determined to be related to the study drug.

CONCLUSIONS

DA-3031 and daily filgrastim are similar in regard to DSN and safety in breast cancer patients receiving TAC chemotherapy.

The impact of l-dopa on attentional impairments in a rat model of Parkinson's disease

Attentional deficits including difficulty in switching attention between tasks or rules, sustaining attention, and selectively attending to specific stimuli are commonly seen in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). While these deficits are frequently reported, it is unclear how traditional dopamine replacement therapy such as l-dopa affects these deficits. In a rat model of PD in which dopamine is unilaterally depleted with a 6-hydroxydopamine infusion to the medial forebrain bundle, we first examined the impact of acute and chronic l-dopa treatment on attention switching as modeled by disengagement behavior (i.e. the ability to disengage from an on-going behavior such as eating or drinking to attend to perioral stimulation). Then, in a separate experiment, we evaluated the effects of l-dopa treatment on selective and sustained attention deficits using a five choice task. Our data suggest that the l-dopa dose necessary to recover motor function can successfully restore attention switching behavior (i.e. disengagement behavior), but further worsens performance in the selective and sustained attention task. Furthermore, this same dose was responsible for inducing dyskinesias in rats given chronic daily injections. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that dopamine replacement therapy may not be sufficient for treating all types of attentional dysfunction occurring in PD.

Who may benefit from robotic gastrectomy?: A subgroup analysis of multicenter prospective comparative study data on robotic versus laparoscopic gastrectomy

AIMS

Robotic gastrectomy for gastric cancer has been proven to be a feasible and safe minimally invasive procedure. However, our previous multicenter prospective study indicated that robotic gastrectomy is not superior to laparoscopic gastrectomy. This study aimed to identify which subgroups of patients would benefit from robotic gastrectomy rather than from conventional laparoscopic gastrectomy.

METHODS

A prospective multicenter comparative study comparing laparoscopic and robotic gastrectomy was previously conducted. We divided the patients into subgroups according to obesity, type of gastrectomy performed, and extent of lymph node dissection. Surgical outcomes were compared between the robotic and laparoscopic groups in each subgroup.

RESULTS

A total of 434 patients were enrolled into the robotic (n = 223) and laparoscopic (n = 211) surgery groups. According to obesity and gastrectomy type, there was no difference in the estimated blood loss (EBL), number of retrieved lymph nodes, complication rate, open conversion rate, and the length of hospital stay between the robotic and laparoscopic groups. According to the extent of lymph node dissection, the robotic group showed a significantly lower EBL than did the laparoscopic group after D2 dissection (P = 0.021), while there was no difference in EBL in patients that did not undergo D2 dissection (P = 0.365).

CONCLUSION

Patients with gastric cancer undergoing D2 lymph node dissection can benefit from less blood loss when a robotic surgery system is used.

Do family meals affect childhood overweight or obesity?: nationwide survey 2008-2012

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of childhood obesity is increasing worldwide and this trend is no exception for South Korea. A multidisciplinary approach is needed for the prevention and management of childhood obesity. To do so, among many other strategies, managing the family unit can be a very effective strategy.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to identify the relationship between frequency of family meals and overweight/obesity in elementary students and to suggest the management and prevention strategies of childhood obesity.

METHODS

Data from a total of 2904 elementary students were analyzed from the 2008-2012 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between overweight/obesity and family meals.

RESULTS

Of the total 2904 elementary students, 573 (19.4%) were overweight or obese. The odds ratio of overweight or obese students who had family dinner only was 1.21 (95% CI: 0.89-1.64), that of those who had family breakfast only was 3.20 (95% CI: 1.70-6.02), and that of those who had neither family breakfast nor family dinner was 4.17 (95% CI: 1.98-8.78) compared with those who had both family breakfast and family dinner.

CONCLUSIONS

The frequency of family meals was strongly an inverse association with childhood overweight or obesity. Therefore, we suggest that the intervention of childhood obesity should include family meals.

Distribution of Porcine Endogenous Retrovirus in Different Organs of the Hybrid of a Landrace and a Jeju Domestic Pig in Korea

Xenotransplantation offers a solution to the shortage of available organs for transplantation, and the pig represents an ideal source of such organs. However, porcine endogenous retrovirus (PERV), whose genome is integrated in pigs, has been suggested to pose a potential risk of xenotransmission. Expression of PERVs in different organs of pigs was carefully measured at DNA, mRNA, and protein levels, providing information valuable for the application of pig organs in xenotransplantation. An analysis of PERV DNA showed that a very similar number of PERV copies was present in the genome of all organs, whereas mRNA and protein levels of PERV varied depending on the organ, with kidney, liver, and spleen expressing high levels of both mRNA and protein. In contrast, mRNA and protein levels were dissimilar in the lung and brain, where mRNA levels were low but protein levels were high. This discrepancy indicates that mRNA levels are not always reflected in protein expression. In addition, the difference between mRNA and protein highlights the importance of choosing the proper analysis method for diagnosing viral infection. In summary, this study provides insight into the distribution of PERV in various organs at the DNA, mRNA, and protein levels, and also informs the proper selection of tissues or organs for future clinical xenotransplantation.

Transfibular ankle arthrodesis using burring, curettage, multiple drilling, and fixation with two retrograde screws through a single lateral incision

PURPOSE

To review the outcome of 23 ankle arthrodeses using burring, curettage, multiple drilling, and fixation with 2 retrograde screws through a single lateral incision.

METHODS

Records of 22 consecutive patients aged 39 to 79 (mean, 62.4) years who underwent 23 ankle arthrodeses for end-stage ankle arthritis were reviewed. Through a single lateral incision, articular cartilage was removed using burring and curettage, and multiple holes were drilled using a Kirschner wire, followed by fixation with 2 retrograde screws. The resected distal fibula was fixed to the distal part of the talus and tibia. The position of the ankle and subtalar joint arthrosis was assessed by 2 orthopaedic specialists. Pre- and post-operative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores were evaluated.

RESULTS

The mean operating time was 122 minutes. The mean follow-up period was 41 months. The mean postoperative ankle alignment was suboptimal: 2.7º varus, 6.7º plantar flexion, and 2.9º internal rotation. The mean AOFAS score improved from 30 to 71 (p<0.01). The postoperative varus ankle alignment was not associated with the AOFAS score (r= -0.13, p=0.569). Of the 23 cases, one was nonunion and 22 achieved bone union after a mean of 5.4 (range, 2-16) months; 3 of them were delayed union. Despite bone union, 7 patients complained of persistent pain; 4 of them had progressive arthrosis of the adjacent subtalar joints (n=2) or subtalar and talonavicular joints (n=2).

CONCLUSION

Ankle arthrodesis using burring, curettage, multiple drilling, and fixation with 2 retrograde screws achieved a high union rate and acceptable functional score without serious complications.

Glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase-1 upregulation by O-GlcNAcylation of Sp1 protects against hypoxia-induced mouse embryonic stem cell apoptosis via mTOR activation

Oxygen signaling is critical for stem cell regulation, and oxidative stress-induced stem cell apoptosis decreases the efficiency of stem cell therapy. Hypoxia activates O-linked β-N-acetyl glucosaminylation (O-GlcNAcylation) of stem cells, which contributes to regulation of cellular metabolism, as well as cell fate. Our study investigated the role of O-GlcNAcylation via glucosamine in the protection of hypoxia-induced apoptosis of mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). Hypoxia increased mESCs apoptosis in a time-dependent manner. Moreover, hypoxia also slightly increased the O-GlcNAc level. Glucosamine treatment further enhanced the O-GlcNAc level and prevented hypoxia-induced mESC apoptosis, which was suppressed by O-GlcNAc transferase inhibitors. In addition, hypoxia regulated several lipid metabolic enzymes, whereas glucosamine increased expression of glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase-1 (GPAT1), a lipid metabolic enzyme producing lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). In addition, glucosamine-increased O-GlcNAcylation of Sp1, which subsequently leads to Sp1 nuclear translocation and GPAT1 expression. Silencing of GPAT1 by gpat1 siRNA transfection reduced glucosamine-mediated anti-apoptosis in mESCs and reduced mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) phosphorylation. Indeed, LPA prevented mESCs from undergoing hypoxia-induced apoptosis and increased phosphorylation of mTOR and its substrates (S6K1 and 4EBP1). Moreover, mTOR inactivation by rapamycin (mTOR inhibitor) increased pro-apoptotic proteins expressions and mESC apoptosis. Furthermore, transplantation of non-targeting siRNA and glucosamine-treated mESCs increased cell survival and inhibited flap necrosis in mouse skin flap model. Conversely, silencing of GPAT1 expression reversed those glucosamine effects. In conclusion, enhancing O-GlcNAcylation of Sp1 by glucosamine stimulates GPAT1 expression, which leads to inhibition of hypoxia-induced mESC apoptosis via mTOR activation.

Metal allergy in eyelid dermatitis and the evaluation of metal contents in eye shadows

BACKGROUND

Allergic contact dermatitis is a common diagnosis in eyelid dermatitis. Sensitization to metals is prevalent in eyelid dermatitis and colour cosmetic products are frequently suspected as the source of metal exposure.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the contact allergens for eyelid dermatitis and to assess metal contents in eye shadow products.

METHODS

Data were collected in the department of dermatology of Ewha Womans University hospital from December 1998 to February 2014. A total of 983 patients were patch tested during the period and 67 patients had eyelid dermatitis among them. To examine metal elements in colour cosmetic products for eyes, randomly selected 10 eye shadows were analysed.

RESULTS

Frequent allergens were metals, thiomersal and phenylenediamine in patients with eyelid dermatitis. The sensitization rates of individual allergens were not significantly different between patients with eyelid dermatitis and without eyelid dermatitis. All 10 eye shadow products contained more than 5 ppm of at least one element, nickel, cobalt or chromium.

CONCLUSION

Metals were top-rank allergens in patients with eyelid dermatitis as in the remaining patients patch tested. The eye shadow products contained significant amount of nickel, cobalt or chromium to elicit allergic reactions.

Mesenchymal stem cell-based gene therapy for erectile dysfunction

Despite the overwhelming success of PDE5 inhibitor (PDE5I), the demand for novel pharmacotherapeutic and surgical options for ED continues to rise owing to the increased proportion of elderly individuals in the population, in addition to the growing percentage of ED patients who do not respond to PDE5I. Surgical treatment of ED is associated with many complications, thus warranting the need for nonsurgical therapies. Moreover, none of the above-mentioned treatments essentially corrects, cures or prevents ED. Although gene therapy is a promising option, many challenges and obstacles such as local inflammatory response and random transgene expression, in addition to other safety issues, limit its use at the clinical level. The use of stem cell therapy alone also has many shortcomings. To overcome these inadequacies, many scientists and clinicians are investigating new gene and stem cell therapies.

Abstract P3-07-56: Predictive value of tertiary lymphoid structure assessed by high endothelial venule count in neoadjuvant setting of triple-negative breast cancer

Background

Tertiary lymphoid structure (TLS) is an ectopic lymph node-like structure characterized by lymphoid aggregation with high endothelial venules (HEVs), and is an important source of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). TILs have a strong prognostic and predictive significance, particularly in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). We previously analyzed expression of immune-related genes in pre-neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) biopsy samples using NanoString assay and showed that gene expression of follicular helper T cell marker CXCL13, which is closely associated with TLSs, was an independent predictive factor for pathologic complete remission (pCR) in TNBC. However, measuring gene expression of biopsy sample is not easy to perform in daily pathology practice. Therefore, we evaluated TLSs by assessing hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stained slides and immunohistochemistry, and investigated their clinical importance.

Methods

A total of 108 patients diagnosed with primary TNBC and treated with NAC (anthracycline, cyclophosphamide, and taxane) were included. The amounts of TILs and TLSs were histopathologically measured in H&E slides. Immunohistochemical studies were done in 55 cases with available tissue samples. The numbers of CD3-, CD8-, and CD20- immunopositive cells in tumor areas were counted by the image analyzer. MECA79- immunopositive HEV densities were calculated. Their relationship to CXCL13 gene expression by NanoString assay was also analyzed.

Results

The overall rate of pCR was 30.6% (33 of 108 tumors). Lower pre-NAC clinical T stage and higher level of TIL and TLS assessed by H&E slides were predictors of pCR in all cases. The mean number of MECA 79-immunopositive HEV in pre-NAC biopsy samples was 12 (range, 0-72). The amounts of TILs and TLSs, numbers of CD3-, CD8-, and CD20- positive cells, HEV density, and expression of CXCL13 showed good correlation with one another. Higher HEV density, CD20- positive cell number, and CXCL13 expression were predictors of pCR. Higher CD8- positive cell numbers and CXCL13 expression were associated with better disease-free survival rate.

Conclusion

The amount of TLSs assessed by H&E slides and MECA 79-immunopositive HEV densities was well correlated with level of TILs, numbers of CD3-, CD8-, and CD20-positive cells, and gene expression of CXCL13, and was significantly associated with pCR in TNBCs. Therefore, assessing HEV density by MECA 79 immunohistochemistry in pre-NAC biopsy samples might be an objective and valuable tool for predicting pCR of TNBC in routine pathology practice. Further investigation of mechanism of TLS development might help to improve immunotherapeutic strategy.

Citation Format: Song IH, Lee HJ, Park IA, Yu JH, Ahn J-H, Gong G. Predictive value of tertiary lymphoid structure assessed by high endothelial venule count in neoadjuvant setting of triple-negative breast cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-07-56.

Abstract P3-07-34: Predictive role of stromal tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in patients with metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer (BC) treated with trastuzumab

Background:Prognostic significance of stromal TILs in metastatic BC has been suggested in various BC subtypes. However, predictive role of stromal TILs for the efficacy of trastuzumab has not been established in patients with HER2-positive BC. This study was performed to evaluate whether the stromal TILs are associated with the efficacy of trastuzumab in patients with metastatic HER2-positve BC.

Method:Between June 2006 and March 2013, a total of 60 women with recurrent or metastatic HER2-positive BC treated with trastuzumab were included in this retrospective analysis. In these patients, trastuzumab was administered either as single agent or combination with taxanes. Stromal TILs were assessed using immunohistochemistry in surgical specimen (n=39, 65%) and biopsy specimen of metastatic lesion (n=21, 35%) by the academic pathologist (HJL). Primary endpoint of this study was progression-free survival (PFS), and secondary endpoints were response rate and overall survival (OS).

Result:Median age was 54 year old (range, 36-76), and all patients had invasive ductal carcinoma. Hormone receptor was positive in 34 patients (57%) and 18 patients (30%) initially presented with metastatic disease. Nine patients (15%) received cytotoxic chemotherapy without trastuzumab before the administration of trastuzumab. Patients were grouped according to the TILs (&lt; 10% [n=50] and &gt;10% [n=10]), and there was no significant difference in age (p=0.68), histologic grade (p=1.00), metastatic sites (p&gt;0.05), and number of lines of chemotherapy before the administration of trastuzumab(p=0.33) among patients with low and high stromal TILs. High TILs were more common in hormone receptor (HR)-negative tumor compared with HR–positive tumor (31% vs 6%; p=0.02). In overall, median PFS and OS were 15.0 months (95% CI, 9.7-20.2) and 35.0 months (95% CI, 29.8-40.2), respectively. Median PFS in patients with high stromal TILs were numerically longer than that in those with low TILs (22.0 months [95% CI, 9.6-34.4] vs 14.0 months [95% CI, 9.6-18.4]; p=0.057). There was no difference in response rates (p=0.43) and OS (p=0.94) according to the stromal TILs. FcR genotype was not significantly correlated with objective response rate, PFS and OS.

Conclusion:This study suggests that the stromal TILs might be associated with the clinical outcomes of HER2-targeted therapy in patients with metastatic HER2-positive BC. Our finding should be validated in future studies based on a large sample size.

Keywords: Breast cancer, tumor infiltrating lymphocyte. Trastzumab, HER2.

Citation Format: Yoon JA, Yoo C, Lee HJ, Kim K-P, Kim J, Ahn J-H, Jung KH, Gong G, Kim S-B. Predictive role of stromal tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in patients with metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer (BC) treated with trastuzumab. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-07-34.