Feasibility of nonthermal atmospheric pressure plasma for intracoronal bleaching

AIM

To investigate the effect of nonthermal atmospheric pressure plasma on intracoronal tooth bleaching in blood stained human teeth.

METHODOLOGY

Forty extracted single-root and blood stained human teeth were used. The teeth were randomly divided into two groups (n=20): group 1 received 30% HP activated by nonthermal atmospheric pressure plasma in the pulp chamber for 30 min, whilst group 2 received 30% HP alone in the pulp chamber for 30 min. The overall colour changes (ΔE) were assessed using the Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage (CIE) Lab Colour System. The data were analysed using Student's t-test to determine the significant differences.

RESULTS

The temperature of all teeth was maintained at approximately 37 °C during plasma bleaching. The plasma treatment with 30% HP resulted in significantly higher bleaching efficacy compared to 30% HP alone in discoloured teeth (P<0.05). The average ΔE values of group 1 and group 2 were 9.24 (0.37) and 4.47 (1.62), respectively, at 30 min.

CONCLUSIONS

The application of nonthermal atmospheric pressure plasma to intracoronal bleaching could be a novel and efficient therapy in the bleaching of haemorrhagically stained teeth.

A new biosensor for specific determination of glucose or fructose using an oxidoreductase of Zymomonas mobilis

Cells of Zymomonas mobilis were permeabilized with toluene in order to utilize the enzymes, glucose-fructose oxidoreductase and gluconolactonase, inside the intact cells. Permeabilized cells were immobilized in a gelatin membrane, and a whole cell enzyme electrode was constructed by fixing the membrane on pH electrode. The biosensor developed was used for specific determination of glucose or fructose by detecting the production rate of hydrogen ion. Optimum conditions for biosensor response were pH 6.2 and temperature of 39 degrees C. The biosensor was highly specific and reproducible, and calibration curves for glucose and fructose were excellent, being linear up to 5 and 50 g/L, respectively.

Inhibition of the PI3K-Akt pathway suppresses sFlt1 expression in human placental hypoxia models in vitro

OBJECTIVE

Although elevated expression of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt1) plays a major role in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia, it is unclear how hypoxia regulates placental sFlt1 expression. Thus, we investigated sFlt1 expression in placentas from normal and preeclamptic pregnancies and in human placental hypoxia models in vitro to examine the role of the PI3K-Akt pathway in regulating the expression of this molecule.

METHODS

We examined the expression of VEGF, PlGF, sFlt1, PI3K, Akt, and HIF-1 in placental samples from ten women with pre-eclampsia and ten normotensive control patients and in human choriocarcinoma trophoblast cells treated with 600muM CoCl(2) by Western blotting. Using models of placental hypoxia, we also determined whether inhibition of the PI3K-Akt pathway plays a direct role in regulating the expression of sFlt1.

RESULTS

The VEGF, PlGF, sFlt1, PI3K, Akt, and HIF-1 levels were significantly higher in the preeclamptic placentas than the normal placentas. In the placental hypoxia models, the expression of VEGF and PlGF increased in a time-dependent manner, whereas the expression of sFlt1 plateaued after 3h of CoCl(2) treatment. The expression levels of p-Akt and PI3K were maximal after 6 and 12h of CoCl(2) treatment, respectively. The expression of HIF-1alpha increased in a time-dependent manner with CoCl(2) treatment. Inhibition of the PI3K-Akt pathway with the PI3K-specific inhibitor LY294002 leads to decreased sFlt1 levels and unchanged or increased VEGF and PlGF levels.

CONCLUSION

Inhibition of the PI3K-Akt pathway may be a useful therapeutic approach, if it were to decrease sFlt1 secretion without inhibiting VEGF or PlGF secretion. This pathway provides a potential target for a new treatment strategy in patients with pre-eclampsia.

Electron beam induced current measurements on single-walled carbon nanotube devices

We report on electron beam induced current (EBIC) from individual carbon nanotubes (CNTs) which are in contact with metal electrodes. The EBIC signals originate from the diffusion of excess carriers induced by the electron beam bombardment. The EBIC image enables us to locate the individual CNTs efficiently. From the polarity of the EBIC signals we can identify the electrical contacts to the metal electrodes. More importantly, we demonstrate that the EBIC can be used to characterize the local electrical properties of CNT-based devices, such as asymmetry in metal contacts and the presence of defects. EBIC is also observed regardless of the presence of insulating surfaces, indicating that the EBIC is a result of the direct interaction between the CNTs and the electron beams.

New electrohydrodynamic flow caused by the Onsager effect

We report a new type of electrohydrodynamic (EHD) flow generated around a circular cylinder and a spherical particle in a dielectric liquid under dc and ac electric fields. The EHD flow is observed for various combinations of dielectric liquids and polar additives. We suggest that the EHD flow is caused by a gradient of electrical conductivity produced by a nonuniform electric field and subsequent generation of free charge in the bulk liquid. Analytical and numerical analyses which are based on the leaky-dielectric model show good agreement with experimental results.

An open, non-comparative, multicentre study on the impact of alfuzosin on sexual function using the Male Sexual Health Questionnaire in patients with benign prostate hyperplasia

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effect of alfuzosin on sexual function by using the Male Sexual Health Questionnaire (MSHQ) in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this multicentre, open-label and non-comparative study, a total of 135 sexually active patients with LUTS were enrolled in Korea to receive alfuzosin 10 mg once daily for 12 weeks. International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and a 25-item MSHQ exploring erection ejaculation and satisfaction with sex life were evaluated at baseline after 4 and 12 weeks of treatment.

RESULTS

Of 135 patients (age 58.8 years, duration of LUTS 2.6 years, mean values), 110 (81.5%) completed the study. The ejaculatory domain of the MSHQ significantly improved at the end-point in the intent-to-treat population (score difference of 2.24, p < or = 0.0001, n = 120). The domains of erection and sexual satisfaction improved at the end-point, but the score differences were not statistically significant. After the 12 weeks treatment, the total IPSS score significantly decreased from 17.9 to 12.1 (p < 0.0001), bother score decreased from 3.8 to 2.85 (p < 0.0001) and peak flow rate increased from 11.0 to 14.3 ml/s (p < 0.0001). A significant relationship between ejaculatory domains of MSHQ and IPSS was found. Four patients (2.9%) discontinued the trial for adverse event.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the analysis of MSHQ scores before and after alfuzosin treatment, improvement was significant on ejaculatory function, in addition to improvement on LUTS and quality of life. MSHQ is a useful tool to evaluate the male sexual dysfunction.

Chronic erythropoietin treatment affects different molecular pathways of diabetic cardiomyopathy in mouse

BACKGROUND

Recent studies in mice experimental models with acute ischaemic injury revealed that erythropoietin (EPO) has numerous tissue-protective effects in the heart, brain and kidneys. We therefore explored the tissue-protective properties of chronic EPO treatment in an experimental model of the db/db mouse with diabetic heart injury.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We randomly treated 11 db/db mice with placebo (saline), 0.4 microg of the continuous erythropoietin receptor activator (CERA) per week (n = 11) or 1.2 microg CERA per week (n = 11) for 14 weeks, and analysed cardiac tissue. The lower CERA dose was a non-haematologically effective dose, whereas the second increased the haematocrit.

RESULTS

Compared with mice in the placebo group, CERA-treated mice had a reduction in TGF-beta(1) and collagen I expression in cardiac tissue (P < 0.01 vs. higher dose CERA). In addition, an increased expression of the pro-survival intracellular pathway p-AKT was observed (P < 0.05 vs. higher dose CERA). The values for the lower C.E.R.A had an intermediate nonsignificant effect. Furthermore, we were able to show that atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) expression was increased in both CERA groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic treatment with CERA protects cardiac tissue in diabetic animals, i.e. it inhibits molecular pathways of cardiac fibrosis, and the effects are dose-dependent.

A comparative study on the short-term clinicopathologic outcomes of laparoscopic surgery versus conventional open surgery for transverse colon cancer

BACKGROUND

The long-term oncologic stability of laparoscopic surgery for colon cancer was established, and laparoscopic surgery was accepted as an alternative to conventional open surgery for colon cancer. However, transverse colon cancer was excluded from the majority of the previous prospective studies. As a result, debate on laparoscopic surgery for transverse colon cancer continues. This study aimed to compare the clinicopathologic outcome of laparoscopic surgery with that of conventional open surgery for transverse colon cancer.

METHODS

From August 2004 to December 2007, 106 cases of transverse colon cancer were managed by resection at our institution, and 89 of these cases were included in this study. Age, sex, body mass index (BMI), operation time, blood loss, time to first flatus, time to start of diet, hospital stay, complications, tumor size, distal resection margin, proximal resection margin, and number of nodes harvested were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

No significant differences were found between the laparoscopic and conventional groups in terms of age, sex, BMI, operation time, or hospital stay. The mean blood loss during the operations was significantly less in the laparoscopic group (113.8 +/- 128.9 ml) than in the conventional group (278.8 +/- 268.7 ml; p < 0.05). Moreover, the time to the first flatus was shorter (2.8 +/- 0.9 days vs. 4.4 +/- 2.0 days; p < 0.00) and the diet was started earlier (3.9 +/- 1.7 days vs. 5.4 +/- 1.9 days; p < 0.00) in the laparoscopic group. No intergroup differences in tumor size, proximal resection margin, or number of lymph nodes were observed. The mean distal resection margin was longer in the laparoscopic group (12.5 +/- 4.1 cm vs. 9.2 +/- 6.2 cm; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic and conventional open surgeries were found to have similar clinical outcomes in transverse colon cancer, and the oncologic quality of laparoscopic surgery was found to be acceptable compared with conventional open surgery.

Overexpression of Wnt-2 in colorectal cancers

The binding of the Wnt ligand to its receptor Frizzled, activates the Wnt canonical signaling pathway in carcinogenesis as well as many cellular processes, including cellular proliferation and differentiation. Wnt-2, one of 19 members of the <em>Wnt</em> gene family, is frequently overexpressed in malignant tissues. Here, in order to investigate the role of Wnt-2 in colorectal carcinogenesis, we examined the expression of the Wnt-2 protein in 120 colorectal cancers by immunohistochemistry. Wnt-2 protein was expressed in the cell membrane and cytoplasm and up-regulated in 74 (61.7%) of 120 colorectal cancers. Statistically, overexpression of Wnt-2 protein was not associated with the clinical and pathological parameters studied, including tumor location, tumor size, clinical stage, lymph node metastasis, and 5-year survival (<em>P > </em>0.05). These results indicate that up-regulation of the Wnt-2 protein might play a role in the development of colorectal cancers, as an early event of carcinogenesis.

KEYWORDS

Wnt-2 protein, expression, immunohistochemistry, tissue microarray, colon cancer.

Surgical and pathological outcomes of laparoscopic surgery for transverse colon cancer

PURPOSE

Several multi-institutional prospective randomized trials have demonstrated short-term benefits using laparoscopy. Now the laparoscopic approach is accepted as an alternative to open surgery for colon cancer. However, in prior trials, the transverse colon was excluded. Therefore, it has not been determined whether laparoscopy can be used in the setting of transverse colon cancer. This study evaluated the peri-operative clinical outcomes and oncological quality by pathologic outcomes of laparoscopic surgery for transverse colon cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Analysis of the medical records of patients who underwent laparoscopic colorectal resection from August 2004 to November 2007 was made. Computed tomography, barium enema, and colonoscopy were performed to localize the tumor preoperatively. Extended right hemicolectomy, transverse colectomy, and extended left hemicolectomy were performed for transverse colon cancer. Surgical outcomes and pathologic outcomes were compared between transverse colon cancer (TCC) and other site colon cancer (OSCC).

RESULTS

Of the 312 colorectal cancer patients, 94 patients underwent laparoscopic surgery for OSCC, and 34 patients underwent laparoscopic surgery for TCC. Patients with TCC were similar to patients with OSCC in age, gender, body mass index, operating time, blood loss, time to pass flatus, start of diet, hospital stay, tumor size, distal resection margin, proximal resection margin, number of lymph nodes, and radial margin. One case in TCC and three cases in OSCC were converted to open surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic surgery for transverse colon cancer and OSCC had similar peri-operative clinical and acceptable pathological outcomes.

PKC delta in preeclamptic placentas promotes Bax dissociation from 14-3-3 zeta through 14-3-3 zeta phosphorylation

OBJECTIVE

We investigated placental apoptosis and the expression of and interactions between 14-3-3 and Bcl-2 family proteins during preeclampsia. In addition, we explored the mechanism of Bax dissociation from 14-3-3, hypothesizing that PKC-mediated phosphorylation of 14-3-3 results in dissociation of Bax from 14-3-3 proteins, and leads to apoptosis.

METHODS

Placental samples from 10 women with preeclampsia and 10 normotensive control patients were analyzed using M30-specific immunohistochemistry to assess placental apoptosis. Biochemical markers of cellular apoptosis, such as cleaved caspase-3, Bax, Bcl-2, 14-3-3, and PKC were followed by Western blotting. Interaction of 14-3-3 proteins with Bax and with PKC was assessed by immunoprecipitation.

RESULTS

M30-positive cells were widespread in the preeclamptic placentas. The levels of cleaved caspase-3, Bax, 14-3-3 zeta, phospho-(Ser)-14-3-3, and PKC delta were significantly higher in the preeclamptic placentas than in normal placentas. Preeclampsia was also associated with weaker interactions between 14-3-3 zeta and Bax and stronger interactions between 14-3-3 zeta and PKC delta.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that PKC delta in preeclamptic placentas promotes Bax dissociation from 14-3-3 zeta through the phosphorylation of 14-3-3 zeta. This finding may at least in part explain the apoptosis-inducing activity of PKC delta, revealing the important role of PKC delta in the development of apoptosis-related diseases such as preeclampsia.

Appearance of novel G-bacteria belonging to acidobacteria in a dairy wastewater treatment plant

A dairy wastewater treatment plant operates a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) and stimulates enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) process with alternating anaerobic and aerobic cycles. Occasionally, the plant suffers from a high suspended solids problem in the supernatant. Interestingly, the occurrence of high suspended solids coincided with times when the EBPR process failed to remove phosphorus. To find out if there was a relationship between the EBPR failure and the high suspended solids problem, effluent samples were collected from the site during the period of poor phosphorus removal and examined microscopically. It was found that cocci-shaped bacteria (3-4 microm in diameter) were abundant in the effluent samples and they were clustered in tetrads. These were believed to be G-bacteria and results of both Gram and Neisser staining tests were negative, suggesting that they had few intracellular polyphosphate granules. Using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), cloning and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequence analysis, the phylogenetic information of in situ G-bacteria was obtained. It was found that all of the recovered clones were clustered in the phylum of Acidobacteria.

Relationship between gamma-glutamyltransferase and metabolic syndrome in a Korean population

AIMS

To investigate associations between gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) and components of metabolic syndrome (MS), insulin resistance and inflammatory markers in the Korean population.

METHODS

The 3508 subjects enrolled in this survey participated in the Korean Rural Genomic Cohort (KRGC) study. Written consent was obtained from the local ethical committee. Of these participants, 1437 were men (mean age 56.9 +/- 7.9 years) and 2071 were women (mean age 55.8 +/- 8.1 years). We measured GGT levels and various biochemical markers. To examine insulin resistance status, we used the homeostasis assessment method for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). For inflammatory marker, we used C-reactive protein (CRP) levels.

RESULTS

Serum GGT levels were significantly higher in the MS group compared to the healthy patient group [23 (5-1403) vs. 19 (5-1920) IU/l; P = 0.01]. The prevalence of MS and adjusted relative risk were both significantly increased from the lowest to highest GGT quartiles; these results persisted after adjustments for multiple confounders. Positive correlations were established between GGT and HOMA-IR or CRP.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that GGT levels may be a surrogate marker of insulin resistance, inflammation and MS.

In vitro fibroblast response to ultra fine grained titanium produced by a severe plastic deformation process

The in vitro response of the mouse fibroblast cell line 3T3 on the surface of ultrafine grained titanium [produced by a severe plastic deformation (SPD) process] has been studied in this work. SPD Ti showed much higher strength than the coarse grained Ti and equivalent to that of Ti-6Al-4V alloy. Better cell proliferation was observed on SPD Ti compared to conventional Ti and Ti-6Al-4V alloy. This could be attributed to the increased surface free energy by reduction in the grain size and possibly the presence of a large number of nano size grooves at the triple point junctions in SPD Ti sample. There was no significant difference in the results of cytotoxicity tests of fine and coarse grained materials.

The effects of dopamine receptor agonists on BK Ca channels and signal transduction mechanism in corpus cavernosal smooth muscle cells

In this study, we investigated the effect of dopamine receptor agonists on potassium channels' activity and their signal transduction pathway in corporal smooth muscle cells. We used cultured human corporal smooth muscle cells. The whole cell and cell-attached configuration of the patch-clamp technique were used for electrophysiological recordings, and enzyme immunoassay was used for measuring cyclic AMP (cAMP) and cyclic GMP levels. Extracellular application of 10 microM dopamine and apomorphine significantly increased whole-cell K(+) currents by 283.5+/-55.7% (at +60 mV; n=12, P<0.001), 292.4+/-58.8.0% (at +60 mV; n=9, P<0.005), respectively. We confirmed that the increase in whole-cell currents was mainly due to activation of the tetraethylammonium-sensitive large conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels (BK(Ca) channels). Enzyme immunoassay indicated that dopamine and apomorphine stimulates cAMP levels in corporal smooth muscle cells in a concentration-dependent fashion. The activation of BK(Ca) channels by dopamine receptor agonists in corporal smooth muscle cells might be one of the mechanisms in inducing penile erection.

High-dose prednisolone and psoralen ultraviolet A combination therapy in 36 patients with vitiligo

It is well known that systemic corticosteroids arrest the progress of vitiligo and lead to repigmentation, but they may produce unacceptable side-effects. The use of high-dose prednisolone therapy to minimize the side-effects of systemic steroids has been reported, but there have been no reports on the effectiveness of such treatment combined with phototherapy. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of combination therapy with intravenous prednisolone and psoralen ultraviolet A (PUVA). In 36 patients with vitiligo, intravenous methylprednisolone for 3 days was followed by PUVA twice weekly. After 6 months, vitiligo lesions on the face were reduced in size by 57.5%, on the upper extremities by 34.5%, on the trunk by 30.4% and on the lower extremities by 26.3%. Overall, improvement was seen in 13 patients (36.1%), with >50% repigmentation. Side-effects were mild and transient. We conclude that combination treatment of high-dose prednisolone therapy and PUVA may represent a highly effective therapeutic option for generalized vitiligo.

Stromelysin-3 expression in the differential diagnosis of dermatofibroma and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans: comparison with factor XIIIa and CD34

BACKGROUND

The distinction between dermatofibroma (DF) and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a well-known challenge for dermatopathologists. Immunohistochemical stains have been used to augment routine histological examination to aid in differentiating DF from DFSP. Stromelysin-3 (ST3) is a member of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family, MMP-11, which is expressed in the skin during wound healing and in the stroma of basal cell carcinoma. Recent studies demonstrated that DFs expressed ST3, whereas DFSPs were only rarely ST3 positive.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the expression of ST3 in DF and DFSP and to ascertain whether ST3 is superior to factor XIIIa or CD34 in differentiating DF from DFSP, by comparison with factor XIIIa and CD34 expression.

METHODS

Immunohistochemical staining was performed on 23 cases of DF and 17 cases of DFSP, using antibodies to ST3, factor XIIIa and CD34.

RESULTS

ST3 was expressed in all cases of DF (23 of 23) but only one case showed weakly positive staining in DFSP (one of 17). The mean +/- SD ST3 immunohistochemistry (IHC) score in DF was 4.52 +/- 0.67. The sensitivity of ST3 was 100% and the specificity was 94%. Factor XIIIa was expressed in all cases of DF (23 of 23) and in five of the 17 DFSPs. The mean +/- SD factor XIIIa IHC score in the DFs was 4.43 +/- 0.73. The sensitivity of factor XIIIa was 100% and the specificity was 71%. CD34 was expressed in four of the 23 DFs and 16 of the 17 DFSPs. The mean +/- SD CD34 IHC score in the DFSPs was 4.41 +/- 1.37. The sensitivity of CD34 was 94% and the specificity was 83%.

CONCLUSIONS

Immunohistochemical staining with a commercial anti-ST3 antibody can be successfully carried out in routine dermatopathology. We confirmed that ST3 is a positive marker for DF and that ST3 staining might be more reliable than factor XIIIa staining in differential diagnosis of DF and DFSP. As the present study showed that ST3 was not absolutely negative in all cases of DFSP, the combination with CD34 immunostaining could make the distinction more reliable.

Model-based evaluation of competition between polyphosphate- and glycogen-accumulating organisms

Many studies show that glycogen-accumulating non-polyphosphate organisms (GAOs) can compete with polyphosphate-accumulating organisms (PAOs) for organic substrate under anaerobic conditions and may indeed cause the deterioration of enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) systems. Understanding their behaviors in an anaerobic/aerobic (A/O) system at different operational conditions is essential in developing control strategies that ensure EBPR. A model-based evaluation of competition between PAOs and GAOs under different operational conditions was presented in this study. At 30 degrees C and a 10-day sludge age, the dominance of GAOs in the A/O sequencing batch reactor (SBR) was strongly dependent upon their considerable kinetic advantage in anaerobic acetate uptake. At 20 degrees C and a 10-day sludge age, the kinetic advantage of GAOs in anaerobic acetate uptake could be less, compared to that at 30 degrees C and a 10-day sludge age, leading to the relative dominance of PAOs and a stable phosphorus removal in the A/O system. At 30 degrees C and a 3-day sludge age, the parameters responsible for determining the aerobic distribution of anaerobically stored X(PHA) for both PAOs and GAOs, other than kinetic parameters of anaerobic acetate uptake, are important for them being dominant in the A/O SBR. In a situation when the q(PHA,P) value is lower than q(PHA,G) but comparable, PAOs may still be dominant in the A/O SBR, presumably because their aerobic conversion fraction of biomass production from PHA was higher than that of the GAOs.

Development of an implantable intrathecal drug infusion pump

An intrathecal drug infusion system has been designed, manufactured and tested. The system is composed of a drug reservoir and a pump/controller assembly. The drug reservoir made of SUS316L is a negative pressure gas chamber enclosing a bellows type drug chamber. The pump/controller assembly includes a bacterial filter, a controller circuit board, a battery and a micropump, and is connected to a catheter for intrathecal infusion. The micropump implements a peristaltic pumping of the drug by a sequential motion of three pairs of cam and cam-follower. In vitro performance tests were conducted with prototypes.

Complete ophthalmoplegia after herpes zoster

Motor loss caused by herpes zoster is infrequent, and only a few studies have focused on ocular motor paralysis in ophthalmic herpes zoster. We report a case of complete ophthalmoplegia resulting from ophthalmic herpes zoster. A 69-year-old man presented with complete left-side ptosis with total ophthalmoplegia 7 days after the onset of left ophthalmic herpes zoster. The patient was treated with aciclovir and prednisolone. Five months later, the ptosis had resolved and the extraocular motility had almost returned to normal.

A nodular calcification of the alar ligament simulating a fracture in the craniovertebral junction

We report a case of an incidental nodular calcification of the alar ligament simulating a fracture in the craniovertebral junction of a previously healthy 24-year-old man. Three-dimensional CT and MR imaging revealed a 7.2 x 7.6 x 4.0 mm nodular calcification in the right alar ligament with normal adjacent bony structures. Serial cervical dynamic radiographs and open-mouth views showed that the cervical spine was stable without any change in the calcification.

Expression profiling of radiation-induced genes in radiodermatitis of hairless mice

BACKGROUND

Radiation induces many cellular events leading to radiodermatitis.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to establish a radiodermatitis model using experimental animals, and to examine the expression profile of radiation-induced genes.

METHODS

Hairless mice were irradiated on the dorsal skin; then total RNAs were isolated and microarray hybridizations were performed.

RESULTS

Irradiation with a total of 40 Gy (10 Gy day-1 for four consecutive days) provokes radiodermatitis in the hairless mouse. After microarray analysis, 130 genes that showed upregulation by radiation were selected and organized into four different clusters, depending on the time-kinetic pattern. Classification of these genes into several functional categories revealed that various biological processes were globally affected by radiation. These include transcription regulation, signal transduction, cell communication, cell death regulation and metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate the complexity of the transcriptional profile of the radiation response, providing important clues on which to base further investigations of the molecular events underlying radiodermatitis.

Depressive symptoms of type 2 diabetics treated with insulin compared to diabetics taking oral anti-diabetic drugs: a Korean study

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to examine the depressive symptoms of type 2 diabetic patients who were treated with insulin compared to those diabetics treated with oral anti-diabetic drugs in Korea.

METHODS

A total 204 outpatients with type 2 diabetes were invited to complete a questionnaire using the Beck depression inventory (BDI) to measure depressive symptoms. Age, gender, body mass index, serum lipid profile, and a social history including marital status, occupation and educational background were also assessed. The presence of diabetic complications was evaluated by examining the patients' medical records. Diabetic patients who were not treated with anti-diabetic drugs were excluded. All the study subjects were classified into two groups based on their mode of therapy: the oral drug group and insulin group. The insulin group included patients treated with insulin-oral drug combinations as well as those treated solely with insulin.

RESULTS

Overall, 32.4% of our diabetic subjects showed depressive symptoms with the criterion being a BDI score > or = 16. Compared to the oral drug group, the insulin group showed a significantly higher frequency of depressive symptoms (insulin group, 48.0%; oral drug group, 27.3%; p<0.01) and higher BDI scores (insulin group, 16.6+/-10.7; oral drug group, 12.6+/-8.7; p<0.01). Moreover, after an adjustment for social factors, the degree of hyperglycemia and the presence of diabetic complications, the insulin group showed a significantly higher frequency of depression (odds ratio 4.38, 95% CI 1.66-11.6, p=0.003), compared to the oral drug group.

CONCLUSIONS

The data showed that insulin treatment is related to the presence of depressive symptoms, and the importance of more careful psychological support of Korean insulin-treated type 2 diabetic patients is strongly suggested.

The placebo effect in irritable bowel syndrome trials: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Despite the apparent high placebo response rate in randomized placebo-controlled trials (RCT) of patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), little is known about the variability and predictors of this response.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the magnitude of response in placebo arms of IBS clinical trials and to identify which factors predict the variability of the placebo response.

METHODS

We performed a meta-analysis of published, English language, RCT with 20 or more IBS patients who were treated for at least 2 weeks. This analysis is limited to studies that assessed global response (improvement in overall symptoms). The variables considered as potential placebo modifiers were study design, study duration, use of a run-in phase, Jadad score, entry criteria, number of office visits, number of office visits/study duration, use of diagnostic testing, gender, age and type of medication studied.

FINDINGS

Forty-five placebo-controlled RCTs met the inclusion criteria. The placebo response ranged from 16.0 to 71.4% with a population-weighted average of 40.2%, 95% CI (35.9-44.4). Significant associations with lower placebo response rates were fulfillment of the Rome criteria for study entry (P=0.049) and an increased number of office visits (P=0.026).

CONCLUSIONS

Placebo effects in IBS clinical trials measuring a global outcome are highly variable. Entry criteria and number of office visits are significant predictors of the placebo response. More stringent entry criteria and an increased number of office visits appear to independently decrease the placebo response.

The placebo effect in irritable bowel syndrome trials: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Despite the apparent high placebo response rate in randomized placebo-controlled trials (RCT) of patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), little is known about the variability and predictors of this response.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the magnitude of response in placebo arms of IBS clinical trials and to identify which factors predict the variability of the placebo response.

METHODS

We performed a meta-analysis of published, English language, RCT with 20 or more IBS patients who were treated for at least 2 weeks. This analysis is limited to studies that assessed global response (improvement in overall symptoms). The variables considered as potential placebo modifiers were study design, study duration, use of a run-in phase, Jadad score, entry criteria, number of office visits, number of office visits/study duration, use of diagnostic testing, gender, age and type of medication studied.

FINDINGS

Forty-five placebo-controlled RCTs met the inclusion criteria. The placebo response ranged from 16.0 to 71.4% with a population-weighted average of 40.2%, 95% CI (35.9-44.4). Significant associations with lower placebo response rates were fulfillment of the Rome criteria for study entry (P=0.049) and an increased number of office visits (P=0.026).

CONCLUSIONS

Placebo effects in IBS clinical trials measuring a global outcome are highly variable. Entry criteria and number of office visits are significant predictors of the placebo response. More stringent entry criteria and an increased number of office visits appear to independently decrease the placebo response.

Equalization characteristics of an upflow sludge blanket-aerated biofilter (USB-AF) system

Equalization characteristics of the upflow sludge blanket-aerated bio-filter (USB-AF) were investigated with the fluctuated raw domestic sewage. Recycle of nitrified effluent from AF to USB triggered the equalization characteristics of the sludge blanket on both soluble and particulate organic matter. Increment of EPS in sludge blanket by nitrate recycle was detected and removal of turbidity and particulates increased at higher recycle ratios by bio-flocculation. Increased TCOD removal in the USB was due to both denitrification of recycled nitrate and entrapment of the particulate organic matter in sludge blanket. Capture of both soluble and particulate organic matter increased sludge blanket layer in the USB, which improved the reactor performances and reduced the organic load on the subsequent AF. Overall TCOD and SS removal efficiencies were about 98% and 96%, respectively in the USB-AF system. Turbidity in the USB effluent was about 44, 20 and 5.5 NTU, at recycle ratios of 0, 100 and 200%, respectively. Particle counts in the range 2-4 microm in the USB effluent were higher than those in influent without nitrate recycle, while particle counts in the range of 0.5-15 microm in the USB effluent decreased 70% at recycle ratio of 200%. The major constituent of EPS extracted from anaerobic sludge was protein and total EPS increased from 109.1 to 165.7 mg/g-VSS with nitrate recycle of 100%. Removal efficiency and concentration of T-N in the UBS-AF effluent was over 70% and below 16 mg/L, respectively.

Analysis of genes responding to ultraviolet B irradiation of HaCaT keratinocytes using a cDNA microarray

BACKGROUND

Ultraviolet (UV) B irradiation causes many important biological changes in skin, which lead to pathophysiological alterations of the homeostatic environment.

OBJECTIVES

To gain more insight into the molecular events provoked by UVB irradiation, we performed cDNA microarray analysis.

METHODS

Immortalized HaCaT keratinocytes were irradiated with a high cytotoxic dose of UVB (50 mJ cm(-2)), and total RNA was isolated. Fluorescently labelled probes were prepared by reverse transcription and were hybridized with cDNA microarray slides made using 840 cDNA clones.

RESULTS

Time-course cDNA microarray analysis revealed the global gene expression profile after UVB exposure. Of 840 genes tested, 192 genes showed changes in their expression levels at one or more of four time points. The genes were clustered into four groups according to their expression patterns in a self-organizing maps analysis. Classification of these genes into nine functional categories revealed that UVB irradiation affected several biological processes. The genes that were first upregulated and then returned to normal levels included several genes related to the inhibition of cell growth and the proteasome pathway. Conversely, the expressions of many genes involved in the cytoskeleton, signal transduction, metabolism and transcription were first downregulated or unchanged and then upregulated later, reflecting the recovery of UVB-damaged cellular activities.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate the complexity of the transcriptional profile of the UVB response, and provide a basis for the global characterization of UV-regulated gene expression.

Improvement of cadmium ion removal by base treatment of juniper fiber

Juniper is a small-diameter underutilized lignocellulosic material. We evaluated the efficacy of base-treated juniper fiber (BTJF) for cadmium (Cd2+) sorption and the viability of juniper fiber as a sorbent for removing Cd2+ from water. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis indicated that carboxylate ion is a major functional group responsible for Cd2+ sorption. The apparent ideal sodium hydroxide concentration for base treatment is approximately 0.5M. A batch sorption isotherm test showed that equilibrium sorption data were better represented by the Langmuir model than the Freundlich model. After base treatment, the maximum Cd2+ sorption loading, Qmax, was greatly improved (9.18-29.54 mg/g), despite a decrease in specific surface area. A pseudo-second-order kinetic model fitted well for the sorption of Cd2+ onto BTJF. Initial metal ion concentration and treatment alkalinity were found to be major parameters influencing the kinetics of the sorption reaction. As a result of its strong ability to bind cadmium and its faster kinetics in low concentration, BTJF could be an inexpensive and efficient sorbent for removing heavy metals from stormwater runoff.

Differences in p53 gene polymorphisms between Korean schizophrenia and lung cancer patients

The reduced incidence of cancer observed in schizophrenia patients may be related to differences in genetic background. It has been suggested that genetic predisposition towards schizophrenia is associated with reduced vulnerability to lung cancer, and p53 gene is one of the candidate genes. We tested the genetic association between schizophrenia and lung cancer by analyzing polymorphic sites in the p53 gene. Genotype and allele frequencies at two polymorphic sites in the p53 gene (BstUI and MspI restriction sites in exon 4 and intron 6, respectively) were studied in Korean schizophrenia (n=179) and lung cancer patients (n=104). Comparisons of the genotype and allele frequencies of the MspI polymorphism revealed significant differences between schizophrenia and lung cancer patients. The results suggest that the p53 polymorphism specifically found in schizophrenia patients may be associated with reduced vulnerability to lung cancer.

Mitigating nutrient leaching with a sub-surface drainage layer of granulated tires

Markets for scrap tires have expanded since the early 1990s with the development of value-added applications such as tire-derived fuel and crumb-rubber-amended asphalt. Granulated tires have also displayed the ability to adsorb volatile organic compounds, indicating that the rubber material can be a useful filter media. Sand-based root zones, typically used for golf course putting green and athletic field construction, lack sufficient cation exchange capacity to restrict nitrogen and phosphorus migration through the root zone and into sub-surface drainage systems. Therefore, the adsorptive properties of tire rubber for retaining nitrogen and phosphorus were studied when applied as a distinct sub-surface drainage or intermediate layer in golf course putting greens. A statistically significant reduction in the concentration of nitrate in leachate was achieved by replacing traditional pea gravel with equally sized granulated tires for the drainage layer media, although the mechanism of nitrate mitigation remains unclear. The results indicate that using granulated tires as a drainage layer or fill material beneath sand-based root zones does not compromise the function of the profile or quality of the vegetation while creating an environmentally beneficial and value-added option for scrap tire reuse.

Nitrogen removal in an upflow sludge blanket (USB) reactor combined by aerobic biofiltration systems

A new nitrogen removal process (up-flow sludge blanket and aerobic filter, USB-AF) was proposed and tested with real sewage. In the USB reactor, the larger part of influent organic and nitrogen matters were removed, and ammonia was effectively oxidized in the subsequent aerobic filter. The role of the aerobic filter was to convert ammonia into nitrate, an electron acceptor that could convert soluble organic matters into volatile suspended solid (VSS) in the USB. The accumulated as well as influent VSS in the USB was finally degraded to fermented products that were another good carbon source for denitrification. Total COD, settleable COD and soluble COD in the raw sewage were 325, 80 and 140 mg/l, respectively. Most unsettleable COD as well as some SCOD in the influent was successfully removed in the USB. TCOD removal in the anoxic filter was by denitrification with the recycled nitrate. Low COD input to the aerobic filter could increase nitrification efficiency, reduce the start-up period and save the aeration energy in the USB-AF system. About 95% of ammonia was nitrified in the aerobic filter with no relation to the influent ammonia concentration. Denitrification efficiency of the recycled nitrate in the anoxic filter was about 85, 83, and 72% at recycle ratios of 100, 200, and 300%, respectively. T-N removal efficiency was 70% at recycle ratio of 300%.

Angiotensin II and endothelin induce inflammation and thereby promote hypertension-induced end-organ damage

Angiotensin (Ang) II and endothelin (ET-1) can both be regulated by NF-kappaB. They are, to variable degrees, also capable of activating NF-kappaB and increase the expression of NF-kappaB-dependent genes. Ang II-related vascular effects are in part mediated by ET-1. Nitric oxide synthase inhibition facilitates Ang II-related effects, which can be inhibited both by AT1-receptor blockers and by endothelin system inhibitors. This state-of-affairs supports the notion that a combined therapeutic strategy of inhibiting Ang II and ET-1 generation or blocking their effects at the receptor level would be superior to either strategy alone. Animal studies are encouraging but not without conflicting results. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and AT1-receptor blockers have a superb track record in experimental animal models and in a host of clinical studies. Selective and nonselective blockers of the ET-1 receptors are important research tools and are also undergoing clinical trials. Inhibitors of the endothelin-converting enzyme have been developed. The recent elucidation of the endothelin-converting enzyme's physical structure should facilitate the development of still more novel compounds to inhibit ET-1 generation. We have recently engendered supportive evidence in this regard.

Autologous cardiomyocyte transplantation using a biodegradable polymer scaffold

BACKGROUND

To achieve a more reliable way of transplanting cardiomyocytes, we conducted an autologous cardiomyocyte transplantation using a biodegradable scaffold, instead of a syringe injection, as a vehicle for transporting cells in an ovine myocardial infarction model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A myocardial infarction was created in sheep using sequential ligation of the homonymous artery and its diagonal branch. Autologous cardiomyocytes from the right ventricular infundibulum were cultured and seeded onto a biodegradable polymer scaffold. Three months after creating myocardial infarction, the two animals were re-anesthetized and cardiomyocyte-seeded scaffolds were implanted in the infarcted area. The animals were kept alive for a further month, and then sacrificed for postmortem heart examinations. Light microscopic analysis and an immunohistochemical study for myoglobin were performed.

RESULTS

On postmortem gross examinations, the polymer scaffolds were visible in the background of well-demarcated thin-walled anteroseptal myocardial infarcts. Microscopic analysis showed abundant myoglobin-stained cells between the fiber strands of the polymer scaffolds. However, there is a possibility that some of these cells might have been giant cells reacting to foreign material.

CONCLUSION

The transplantation of cultured autologous cardiomyocytes into an infarct region using a biodegradable scaffold instead of syringe injection provides another promising option for cardiomyocyte transplantation, which warrants further study.

Tissue-engineered heart valve leaflets: an effective method of obtaining acellularized valve xenografts

To determine the most effective method of producing the acellularized xenograft heart valve leaflets, we compared pathological findings of the xenograft heart valve leaflets produced by three methods; freeze-thawing, Triton and NaCl-SDS treatment and further analyzed the pattern of endothelial cells seeded onto them.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two pigs were sacrificed and three pulmonary valve leaflets were harvested from each animal. They were immediately stored in a tissue preservation solution and assigned in one of the three preparation methods for acellularization. Endothelial cells from the jugular vein of a goat were isolated and seeded onto the acellularized xenograft heart valve leaflets. Light and Electron microscopic analyses were performed.

RESULT AND CONCLUSION

H & E stain showed that cells were almost absent in the leaflet treated with NaCl-SDS, while cells were partly present in the leaflets treated, one with Triton and the other Freeze-thawing. Transmission microscopic analyses showed cell-free matrix with well preserved collagen architecture under the seeded endothelial cells in the leaflets treated with NaCl-SDS. In conclusion, the valve leaflets treated with NaCl-SDS among three representative methods of acellularization of tissues (freeze-thawing, Triton X-100, and NaCl-SDS) showed the better results than the others in terms of the efficacy of decellularization and response to endothelial cell seeding.

Role of rho-kinase activity in angiotensin II-induced contraction of rabbit clitoral cavernosum smooth muscle

Isometric tension measurement using a selective Rho-kinase inhibitor (+)- (R)-trans4-(1-aminoethyl)-N-(4-pyridyl)cyclohexanecarboxamide (Y-27632) and a selective myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) inhibitor 1-(5-iodonaphthalene-1-sulfonyl)-1H-hexahydro-1,4-diazepine hydrochloride (ML7) were used in rabbit clitoral cavernosum smooth muscle (CSM). N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) was used to evaluate the relationship between NO release and Rho-kinase. Y-27632 significantly attenuated contractions induced by ANG II, dose-dependently. However, ML7 did not affect the contractile response to ANG II except in the high concentrations of ML7. Y-27632 inhibited contraction with phenylephrine (PhE), but ML7 did not inhibit contraction with PhE. Nitric oxide synthase inhibitor (NAME) did not affect the Y-27632-induced relaxation in the pre-contracted strip with PhE. The present study demonstrates that G-protein-coupled increase in myofilament Ca(2+) sensitivity mediated through the RhoA/Rho-kinase signal pathway is involved in the control by ANG II of the clitoral CSM tone. RhoA/Rho-kinase pathway acts in the ANG II-induced contraction independently of the NO pathway.

Implantation of penile prosthesis in a patient with severe corporeal fibrosis induced by cavernosal injection therapy

Implantation of a penile prosthesis in men with complicated fibrosis of corpus cavernosum is very difficult and even impossible. Cavernosal dilation requires sharp intracavernosal dissection to implant prosthesis, however complete removal of the fibrotic tissue is often impossible. We introduce a new technique using electric resection and electrovaporization of fibrotic tissue for implantation of penile prosthesis in a patient with severe corporeal fibrosis.

Comparison of effects of angiotensin peptides in the regulation of clitoral cavernosum smooth muscle tone

The isometric tension measurement and in vitro autoradiography were used in clitoral cavernosum smooth muscle (CSM). Angiotensin ANG III, ANG IV, ANG II and ANG I induced contractions in clitoral CSM strips. ANG III and ANG I- induced contraction was five times less active than ANG II, whereas ANG IV-induced contraction was 1181-fold less potent than ANG II. Contractile responses to ANG III, ANG IV, ANG II and ANG I were significantly inhibited by type 1 ANG II (AT 1) receptor antagonist Dup 753 but not by type 2 ANG II (AT2) receptor antagonist PD 123,319. Pre-treatment with Nomega-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor accentuated force of contraction induced by ANG III, ANG IV and ANG II. Amastatin, an aminopeptidase inhibitor enhanced ANG III- and ANG IV-induced contractions. Specific binding sites for 125I-ANG II were found in the clitoral CSM. Specific binding of 125I-ANG II was displaced by unlabeled ANG peptides. This study suggests that the contractile responses to all four peptides of the ANG family are mediated via AT1 receptors but not AT2 receptors. Further, the rank order of potency of contraction was as follows, ANG II> ANG I>ANG III>ANG IV. It is also suggested that peptides of the ANG family have a cross-talk with the NO system and aminopeptidase is involved in the modulation of the tone of clitoral CSM by ANG III and ANG IV.