Furoxan derivatives demonstrated in vivo efficacy by reducing Mycobacterium tuberculosis to undetectable levels in a mouse model of infection

OBJECTIVES

The most recent survey conducted by the World Health Organization described Tuberculosis (TB) as one of the top 10 causes of death and the leading cause of death from a single infectious agent. The increasing number of TB-resistant cases has contributed to this scenario. In light of this, new strategies to control and treat the disease are necessary. Our research group has previously described furoxan derivatives as promising scaffolds to be explored as new antitubercular drugs.

RESULTS

Two of these furoxan derivatives, (14b) and (14c), demonstrated a high selectivity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The compounds (14b) and (14c) were also active against a latent M. tuberculosis strain, with MIC₉₀ values of 6.67 μM and 9.84 μM, respectively; they were also active against monoresistant strains (MIC₉₀ values ranging from 0.61 to 20.42 μM) and clinical MDR strains (MIC₉₀ values ranging from 3.09 to 42.95 μM). Time-kill experiments with compound (14c) showed early bactericidal effects that were superior to those of the first- and second-line anti-tuberculosis drugs currently used in therapy. The safety of compounds (14b) and (14c) was demonstrated by the Ames test because these molecules were not mutagenic under the tested conditions. Finally, we confirmed the safety, and high efficacy of compounds (14b) and (14c), which reduced M. tuberculosis to undetectable levels in a mouse aerosol model of infection.

CONCLUSION

Altogether, we have identified two advanced lead compounds, (14b) and (14c), as novel promising candidates for the treatment of TB infection.

Estimation of carcass weight of Hanwoo (Korean native cattle) as a function of body measurements using statistical models and a neural network

Objective

The objective of this study was to develop a model for estimating the carcass weight of Hanwoo cattle as a function of body measurements using three different modeling approaches: i) multiple regression analysis, ii) partial least square regression analysis, and iii) a neural network.

Methods

Data from a total of 134 Hanwoo cattle were obtained from the National Institute of Animal Science in South Korea. Among the 372 variables in the raw data, 20 variables related to carcass weight and body measurements were extracted to use in multiple regression, partial least square regression, and an artificial neural network to estimate the cold carcass weight of Hanwoo cattle by any of seven body measurements significantly related to carcass weight or by all 19 body measurement variables. For developing and training the model, 100 data points were used, whereas the 34 remaining data points were used to test the model estimation.

Results

The R² values from testing the developed models by multiple regression, partial least square regression, and an artificial neural network with seven significant variables were 0.91, 0.91, and 0.92, respectively, whereas all the methods exhibited similar R² values of approximately 0.93 with all 19 body measurement variables. In addition, relative errors were within 4%, suggesting that the developed model was reliable in estimating Hanwoo cattle carcass weight. The neural network exhibited the highest accuracy.

Conclusion

The developed model was applicable for estimating Hanwoo cattle carcass weight using body measurements. Because the procedure and required variables could differ according to the type of model, it was necessary to select the best model suitable for the system with which to calculate the model.

Postpartum women’s experience of abuse in childhood, postnatal depression, and thoughts of self-harm

Background

Postnatal depression threatens the health of both mothers and babies. To improve maternal and child health in Seoul, South Korea, a nurse home visitation program for pregnant women and new mothers and babies has been implemented since 2013.

Methods

Cross-sectional data collected from 9,124 mothers while they were visiting a public health center for prenatal services or a nurse was visiting their home within 6 weeks after birth between 2014 and 2018 were analyzed. Mothers were asked whether they had experienced physical, emotional, or sexual abuse in their childhood. Postnatal depression and thoughts of self-harm were measured using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Postnatal depression was defined as a total EPDS score of 13 or higher; thoughts of self-harm were defined as a response of “yes, quite often,” “sometimes,” or “hardly ever” to the corresponding item, excluding the response of “never".

Results

Overall, 3.2% of mothers had experienced child abuse; 8.1% experienced postnatal depression and 5.4% reported thoughts of self-harm. Postnatal depression was more common in mothers who had experienced child abuse than among those who had not (24.2% vs. 7.6%). A similar pattern was found for thoughts of self-harm (21.1% vs. 4.9%, respectively). When controlling for mothers’ age, economic status, history of receiving treatment for mental health problems, and other factors, having experienced child abuse was associated with a 2.73-fold increase in the odds of postnatal depression (odds ratio, 2.02-3.70) and a 3.58-fold increase in the odds of thoughts of self-harm (odds ratio, 2.58-4.96).

Conclusions

Mothers should be screened for having experienced child abuse when providing public health perinatal care to improve mothers’ mental health and parenting practices and to promote their children’s growth and development.

Key messages

Child abuse may have a lifelong negative effect on victims, and the effect extends to the next generation’s health and development. Public health policy and interventions to prevent child abuse are needed to tackle health inequality beginning in early childhood.

Inhibitory Effects of Black Ginseng on Particulate Matter-Induced Pulmonary Injury

Inhalation of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is associated with elevated pulmonary injury caused by the loss of vascular barrier integrity. Black ginseng (BG), steamed and dried ginseng nine times, exhibits various pharmacological activities such as antibacterial, antihyperglycemic, anti-atopic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activities. In this study, we investigated the beneficial effects of black ginseng extract (BGE) against PM-induced lung endothelial cell (EC) barrier disruption and pulmonary inflammation. Permeability, leukocyte migration, activation of proinflammatory proteins, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and histology were examined in PM2.5-treated ECs and mice. BGE significantly scavenged PM2.5-induced ROS and inhibited the ROS-induced activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). Concurrently, BGE activated Akt, which helped maintain endothelial integrity. Furthermore, BGE reduced vascular protein leakage, leukocyte infiltration, and proinflammatory cytokine release in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in PM-induced lung tissues. These results indicated that BGE may exhibit protective effects against PM-induced inflammatory lung injury and vascular hyperpermeability.

Quality characteristics, fatty acid profiles, flavor compounds and eating quality of cull sow meat in comparison with commercial pork

Objective

Although the slaughter of cull sows (CS) for human consumption and meat products processing appears quite common throughout the world, relatively limited scientific information regarding the meat quality parameters of this pork type is available. The present study aimed at providing the technological quality characteristics and eating quality of CS meat, and comparing with those of commercial pork.

Methods

Longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscle samples of CS and finisher pigs (FP) at 24 h postmortem were collected and used for investigation of the meat quality traits (pH, color, shear force, cooking loss, water holding capacity), fatty acids, flavor compounds and sensory characteristics.

Results

The CS meat had significantly higher moisture content (p = 0.0312) and water holding capacity (p = 0.0213) together with lower cooking loss (p = 0.0366) compared to the FP meat. The CS meat also exhibited higher (p = 0.0409) contents of unsaturated fatty acids, especially polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA, p = 0.0213) and more desirable PUFA/total saturated fatty acids ratio (p = 0.0438) compared to the FP meat. A total of 56 flavor compounds were identified, amongst the amount of 16 compounds differed significantly between the two pork groups. Most of the PUFA-derived flavor compounds (e.g., hexanal, benzaldehyde, and hydrocarbons) showed higher amounts in the CS meat. While, 3-(methylthio)-propanal and 4-methylthiazole associated with pleasant aromas (meaty and roast odor notes) were only found in the FP meat. Furthermore, no differences were reported by panelists for flavor, juiciness, tenderness, and acceptability scores between the two pork groups studied.

Conclusion

The sow meat exhibited better technological quality and its eating quality could be comparable to the commercial pork. This study provides meat processors and traders with valuably scientific information which may help to improve the utilization and consumption level of sow meat.

Quality characteristics and flavor compounds of pork meat as a function of carcass quality grade

Objective

The present work aimed at evaluating the effects of carcass quality grade on the quality characteristics of pork meat according to Korean carcass quality grade system.

Method

Pork carcasses with varying in quality grades (QG): 1+ (QG1+, n=10), 1 (QG1, n=10) and 2 (QG2, n=10), were used to evaluate the relationship between carcass quality grade and meat quality. The meat quality traits, fatty acid profiles, flavor compounds and sensory qualities were measured on the longissimus dorsi muscle samples of these carcasses.

Results

Pork meat of higher quality grade (GQ1+) presented significantly higher fat content (5.43%), C18:2n-6 level (19.03%) and total unsaturated fatty acids (UFA) content (62.72%). Also, the QG1+ meat was significantly higher in levels of classes of flavor compounds such as aldehydes, alcohols and hydrocarbons in comparison to those of the meat samples from the lower GQ groups. The sensory evaluation results (flavor, juiciness, tenderness and acceptability scores) of QG1+ meat was significantly higher than the QG1 and QG2 meats. The pork with lower QG (i.e., QG2) was found positively correlated to redness (r=0.987), C18:1n-9 level (r=1.000) but negatively correlated to the fat content (r=-0.949), and flavor (r=-0.870), juiciness (r=-0.861), tenderness (r=-0.862) and acceptability (r=-0.815) scores.

Conclusion

The pork with higher quality grade had higher fat content, total unsaturated fatty acids and better eating quality, thus producing pork with higher quality grades should be considered in order to satisfy the consumer's expectation.

Inhibitory effects of protopanaxatriol type ginsenoside fraction (Rgx365) on particulate matter-induced pulmonary injury

Inhalation of fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) is associated with elevated pulmonary injury attributed to the loss of vascular barrier integrity. Black ginseng (BG), steamed 9 times and dried ginseng, and its major protopanaxatriol type ginsenosides (ginsenoside Rg4, Rg6, Rh4, Rh1, and Rg2) exhibited various biological activities including anti-septic, anti-diabetic, wound healing, immune-stimulatory, and anti-antioxidant activity. The aim of this study was to investigate the beneficial effects of Rgx365 (a protopanaxatriol type rare ginsenosides fraction) on PM-induced lung endothelial cell (EC) barrier disruption and pulmonary inflammation. Permeability, leukocyte migration, activation of proinflammatory proteins, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and histology were examined in PM_2.5-treated EC and mice. Rgx365 significantly scavenged PM_2.5-induced ROS, inhibited ROS-induced activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), activated Akt in purified pulmonary EC, which helped maintain endothelial integrity. Further, Rgx365 reduced vascular protein leakage, leukocyte infiltration, and proinflammatory cytokine release in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids in PM-induced mouse lung tissues. Data suggested that Rgx365 might exhibit protective effects in PM-induced inflammatory lung injury and vascular hyperpermeability.

Suppressive Effects of Ginsenoside Rh1 on HMGB1-Mediated Septic Responses

High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is considered as a late mediator of sepsis and the inhibition of HMGB1-mediated severe inflammatory responses, and restoration of endothelial integrity have emerged as attractive therapeutic strategies for the management of sepsis. Ginsenoside Rh1, a protopanaxatriol type ginsenoside, is one of the major bioactive components of Korean red ginseng, which has been increasingly used for enhancing cognition and physical health worldwide. Ginsenoside Rh1 exhibits potent biological activities such as antistress, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. We examined the effects of ginsenoside Rh1 on HMGB1-mediated septic responses and survival rate in a mouse model of sepsis. Ginsenoside-Rh1 was administered after the HMGB1 challenge. The antiseptic activity of ginsenoside Rh1 was determined by measuring the permeability, leukocyte adhesion and migration, activation of pro-inflammatory proteins in HMGB1-activated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and mice, and the survival rate in a sepsis mouse model. Ginsenoside Rh1 significantly reduced HMGB1 release in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated HUVECs. Furthermore, ginsenoside Rh1 suppressed the production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-[Formula: see text], interleukin (IL)-6, activation of nuclear factor (NF)-[Formula: see text]B and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 by HMGB1. Ginsenoside Rh1 also inhibited HMGB1-mediated hyperpermeability and leukocyte migration in mice. In addition, treatment with ginsenoside Rh1 reduced the cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced release of HMGB1, sepsis-related mortality and tissue injury in vivo. Our results indicated that ginsenoside Rh1 might be useful in the treatment of sepsis by targeting HMGB1.

Abstract P4-14-04: Time course changes in serum FSH, estradiol, and menstruation restoration in premenopausal patients with breast cancer taking adjuvant tamoxifen after completing chemotherapy: A report from the ASTRRA study

BACKGROUND

Assessment of restoration of ovarian function after chemotherapy is critical with respect to the initiation of different types of endocrine treatment in young high risk breast cancer patients

METHODS

In total, 1289 women who remained premenopausal or resumed premenopausal status after chemotherapy were randomized to receive 5 years of tamoxifen or 5 years of tamoxifen plus 2 years of ovarian suppression. The patients who did not resume menstruation were followed up for 2 years with tamoxifen treatment after finishing chemotherapy. Prospectively collected consecutive post-chemotherapy hormone and menstruation data were available for 705 breast cancer patients who enrolled tamoxifen-only treatment group or did not resume menstruation during follow up. This analysis evaluated the proportion of patients with pre-menopausal FSH levels (<30 mIU/ml), E2 levels (340 pg/ml), and menstruation at any time point during treatment with tamoxifen.

RESULTS

During 5 years of tamoxifen treatment after chemotherapy for premenopausal breast cancer patients, 62% of patients resumed menstruation. Menstruation returned in 92% of patients under 35 years old but only in 31% of patients over 45 years old. Ovarian function, defined by serum FSH and E2 levels, resumed in 94% and 65% of patients, respectively, over 5 years. Most patients achieved ovarian function restoration during the first 2 years after chemotherapy, with 47.1% resuming menstruation and 86.2% and 50.3% achieving pre-menopausal FSH and E2 levels, respectively, in the first 2 years. Clinical factors related to menstruation restoration were younger age (HR = 6.38, 95% CI 1.33-3.47), 6 month hormone profile after chemotherapy (FSH<30: HR=1.67, 95% CI 1.28-2.17; E2 >40: HR=2.96, 95% CI 2.25-3.89), and anthracycline without taxane chemotherapy (HR=1.63, 95% CI 1.25-2.13).

CONCLUSIONS

During 5 years of tamoxifen treatment after chemotherapy, half of patients experienced menstruation restoration, including most very young patients under 35 years. The majority of patients experienced menstruation restoration in the first 2 years of tamoxifen treatment.

Citation Format: Kim HJ, Noh WC, Nam SJ, Park B-w, Lee ES, Im SA, Jung YS, Yoon JH, Kang SS, Park KH, Lee S-J, Jung J, Lee MH, Cho SH, Kim SY, Kim H-A, Han S-H, Han W, Hur MH, Ahn SH. Time course changes in serum FSH, estradiol, and menstruation restoration in premenopausal patients with breast cancer taking adjuvant tamoxifen after completing chemotherapy: A report from the ASTRRA study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-14-04.

Incidence and Risk Factors of Immediate Hypersensitivity Reactions Associated With Low-Osmolar Iodinated Contrast Media: A Longitudinal Study Based on a Real-Time Monitoring System

OBJECTIVES

We investigated the incidence of immediate hypersensitivity reaction (HSR) caused by different types of low-osmolar contrast media (LOCM) and cumulative exposure to LOCM.

METHODS

This cohort study included all consecutive patients who underwent LOCM-enhanced computed tomography from 2012 through 2014. We assessed 5 LOCM (iobitridol, iohexol, iomeprol, iopamidol, and iopromide). All patients were monitored for adverse events, and new symptoms and signs were recorded in real time using the Contrast Safety Monitoring and Management System (CoSM2oS).

RESULTS

The overall incidence of immediate HSR to LOCM was 0.97% (2004 events resulting from 205 726 exposures). Incidence differed significantly depending on whether the patient had a previous history of HSR to LOCM (0.80% in patients with no history and 16.99% in patients with a positive history of HSR to LOCM, P=.001). The incidence of HSR to individual LOCM ranged from 0.72% (iohexol) to 1.34% (iomeprol), although there were no significant differences across the 5 LOCM. A longitudinal analysis demonstrated that the incidence of HSR increased gradually with more frequent previous exposure to LOCM (HR=2.006 [95%CI, 1.517-2.653], P<.001). However, this cumulative increase in risk was observed in patients who had experienced HSR to LOCM, but not in those who had not.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of HSR did not differ significantly across the 5 LOCM assessed in the study. Repeated exposure to LOCM did not increase the risk of HSR among patients who had never experienced HSR to LOCM.

Osseous versus Nonosseous Spinal Epidural Arteriovenous Fistulas: Experiences of 13 Patients

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Spinal epidural arteriovenous fistulas are rare vascular malformations. We present 13 patients with spinal epidural arteriovenous fistulas, noting the various presenting symptom patterns, imaging findings related to bone involvement, and outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Among 111 patients with spinal vascular malformations in the institutional data base from 1993 to 2017, thirteen patients (11.7%) had spinal epidural arteriovenous fistulas. We evaluated presenting symptoms and imaging findings, including bone involvement and mode of treatment. To assess the treatment outcome, we compared initial and follow-up clinical status using the modified Aminoff and Logue Scale of Disability and the modified Rankin Scale.

RESULTS

The presenting symptoms were lower back pain (n = 2), radiculopathy (n = 5), and myelopathy (n = 7). There is overlap of symptoms in 1 patient (No. 11). Distribution of spinal epidural arteriovenous fistulas was cervical (n = 3), thoracic (n = 2), lumbar (n = 6), and sacral (n = 2). Intradural venous reflux was identified in 7 patients with congestive venous myelopathy. The fistulas were successfully treated in all patients who underwent treatment (endovascular embolization, n = 10; operation, n = 1) except 2 patients who refused treatment due to tolerable symptoms. Transarterial glue (n = 7) was used in nonosseous types; and transvenous coils (n = 3), in osseous type. After 19 months of median follow-up, the patients showed symptom improvement after treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Although presenting symptoms were diverse, myelopathy caused by intradural venous reflux was the main target of treatment. Endovascular treatment was considered via an arterial approach in nonosseous types and via a venous approach in osseous types.

Suppressive effects of rare ginsenosides, Rk1 and Rg5, on HMGB1-mediated septic responses

High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is considered to be a late mediator of sepsis. The inhibition of HMGB1-mediated severe inflammatory response and restoration of endothelial integrity have emerged as attractive therapeutic strategies for the management of sepsis. Rare ginsenosides, Rk1 (SB1) and Rg5 (SB2), are among the main components of black ginseng and are prepared from ginsenoside Rd by steaming at 120 °C for 3 h. We examined the effects of SB1 and SB2 on HMGB1-mediated septic response and survival rate in a mouse model of sepsis. SB1 and SB2 were administered after challenge with HMGB1. SB1 and SB2 significantly reduced the release of HMGB1 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECS) via the SIRT1-mediated deacetylation of HMGB1. Moreover, SB1 and SB2 suppressed the production of TNF-α and IL-6 and the activation of NF-κB and ERK 1/2 by HMGB1. SB1 and SB2 also inhibited HMGB1-mediated hyperpermeability and leukocyte migration in mice. In addition, treatment with SB1 and SB2 reduced the cecal ligation and puncture-induced release of HMGB1, sepsis-related mortality, and tissue injury in vivo. Our results indicate that SB1 and SB2 might be useful in the treatment of sepsis by targeting HMGB1.

A New Standard DNA Damage (SDD) Data Format

Our understanding of radiation-induced cellular damage has greatly improved over the past few decades. Despite this progress, there are still many obstacles to fully understand how radiation interacts with biologically relevant cellular components, such as DNA, to cause observable end points such as cell killing. Damage in DNA is identified as a major route of cell killing. One hurdle when modeling biological effects is the difficulty in directly comparing results generated by members of different research groups. Multiple Monte Carlo codes have been developed to simulate damage induction at the DNA scale, while at the same time various groups have developed models that describe DNA repair processes with varying levels of detail. These repair models are intrinsically linked to the damage model employed in their development, making it difficult to disentangle systematic effects in either part of the modeling chain. These modeling chains typically consist of track-structure Monte Carlo simulations of the physical interactions creating direct damages to DNA, followed by simulations of the production and initial reactions of chemical species causing so-called "indirect" damages. After the induction of DNA damage, DNA repair models combine the simulated damage patterns with biological models to determine the biological consequences of the damage. To date, the effect of the environment, such as molecular oxygen (normoxic vs. hypoxic), has been poorly considered. We propose a new standard DNA damage (SDD) data format to unify the interface between the simulation of damage induction in DNA and the biological modeling of DNA repair processes, and introduce the effect of the environment (molecular oxygen or other compounds) as a flexible parameter. Such a standard greatly facilitates inter-model comparisons, providing an ideal environment to tease out model assumptions and identify persistent, underlying mechanisms. Through inter-model comparisons, this unified standard has the potential to greatly advance our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of radiation-induced DNA damage and the resulting observable biological effects when radiation parameters and/or environmental conditions change.

Outcomes of physical examination-indicated cerclage in twin pregnancies with acute cervical insufficiency compared to singleton pregnancies

Objectives To compare pregnancy outcomes of physical examination-indicated cerclage in twin pregnancies with acute cervical insufficiency with that of singletons. Methods This retrospective cohort study included 88 consecutive women (17 twins and 71 singletons) who had undergone physical examination-indicated cerclage because of acute cervical insufficiency (defined as painless cervical dilation with (1) prolapsed and/or visible membranes at the external cervical os on speculum examination and (2) a functional cervical length of zero on transvaginal ultrasound) between 160/7 and 236/7 weeks. The primary outcome measure was preterm delivery <34 weeks. Results (1) The frequency of preterm delivery <34 weeks was not significantly different between the two groups [twins, 56% (9/16) vs. singleton, 53% (37/70), P>0.999]. (2) The perinatal mortality was 21% (7/34) in twins and 32% (23/71) in singletons. (3) The median gestational age at delivery for twin pregnancies was 31.0 weeks (IQR, 22.6-36.5 weeks), which was similar to that of singleton pregnancies (median 32.4 weeks; IQR 22.3-38.3 weeks). (4) There were no significant differences in preterm delivery before 28 and 32 weeks, interval from cerclage to delivery within 1, 2, 4 and 8 weeks and neonatal morbidities between the two groups. Conclusion The obstetric and neonatal outcomes of physical examination-indicated cerclage in twin pregnancies were comparable to those in singleton pregnancies.

Early development of de novo hepatocellular carcinoma after direct-acting agent therapy: Comparison with pegylated interferon-based therapy in chronic hepatitis C patients

Patients with chronic hepatitis C who achieve a sustained viral response after pegylated interferon therapy have a reduced risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, but the risk after treatment with direct-acting antivirals is unclear. We compared the rates of early development of hepatocellular carcinoma after direct-acting antivirals and after pegylated interferon therapy. We retrospectively analysed 785 patients with chronic hepatitis C who had no history of hepatocellular carcinoma (211 treated with pegylated interferon, 574 with direct-acting antivirals) and were followed up for at least 24 weeks after antiviral treatment. De novo hepatocellular carcinoma developed in 6 of 574 patients receiving direct-acting antivirals and in 1 of 211 patients receiving pegylated interferon. The cumulative incidence of early hepatocellular carcinoma development did not differ between the treatment groups either for the whole cohort (1.05% vs 0.47%, P = .298) or for those patients with Child-Pugh Class A cirrhosis (3.73% vs 2.94%, P = .827). Multivariate analysis indicated that alpha-fetoprotein level >9.5 ng/mL at the time of end-of-treatment response was the only independent risk factor for early development of hepatocellular carcinoma in all patients (P < .0001, hazard ratio 176.174, 95% confidence interval 10.768-2882.473) and in patients treated with direct-acting agents (P < .0001, hazard ratio 128.402, 95% confidence interval 8.417-1958.680). In conclusion, the rate of early development of hepatocellular carcinoma did not differ between patients treated with pegylated interferon and those treated with direct-acting antivirals and was associated with the serum alpha-fetoprotein level at the time of end-of-treatment response.

Severe Asthma Phenotypes Classified by Site of Airway Involvement and Remodeling via Chest CT Scan

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to establish a system that can classify severe asthma on the basis of airway remodeling patterns visualizedusing computed tomography (CT) images and to evaluate the clinical characteristics of individual image-based subtypes.

METHODS

Chest CT images from severe asthma patients were retrospectively evaluated to classify phenotypes by site of airway involvement and remodeling. The association between radiologic subtypes and clinical characteristics was assessed.

RESULTS

Of 91 patients with severe asthma, 74 (81.3%) exhibited abnormal radiologic findings, including bronchial wall thickening (BT), mucus plugging (MP), and bronchiectasis (BE). The severity of BT and the extent of MP were independently associated with peripheral blood eosinophil count (P=.012, r2=0.112) and sputum eosinophil count (P=.022, r2=0.090), respectively. The large-to-medium airway remodeling type, which showed diffuse BT combined with MP and BE, accounted for 44% of patients and revealed higher peripheral blood eosinophil counts than other types. In the small airway remodeling type, which accounted for 6.6% of patients, we observed a higher rate of fixed airflow obstruction, along with a predominance of males and smokers and more frequent use of controller medication than other phenotypes. In 26% of patients with severe asthma, no prominent airway remodeling was observed (near-normal type); the near-normal type required oral corticosteroids less frequently than the large-to-medium airway and small airway remodeling types.

CONCLUSIONS

Depending on the site of airway involvement and remodeling pattern, 3 different structural types can be distinguished in chest CT findings from patients with severe asthma. Remodeling in large-to-medium sized airways revealed an association with systemic eosinophilic inflammation in patients with severe asthma.

Lactobacillus plantarum (KACC 92189) as a Potential Probiotic Starter Culture for Quality Improvement of Fermented Sausages

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of fermenting temperature on the applicability of Lactobacillusplantarum for production of fermented sausages as starter cultures, and its applicable efficiency was also compared with those inoculated with commercial starter culture or non-inoculated control. The L. plantarum isolated from a naturally-fermented meat, identified by 16S rDNA sequencing and again identified by denovo Assembly Analysis method was used as a starter culture. Six treatments: 3 with L. plantarum at different fermenting temperatures (20, 25 and 30°C), and other 3 treatments (1 with commercial starter culture, 1 with its mixture with L. plantarum and 1 non-inoculated control) fermented under the same conditions (25°C) were prepared. Results revealed that the fermenting temperature considerably affected the pH change in samples added with L. plantarum; the highest pH drop rate (1.57 unit) was obtained on the samples fermented at 30°C, followed by those at 25°C (1.3 unit) and 20°C (0.99 unit) after 4 days fermentation. Increasing the temperature up to 30°C resulted in significantly lower spoilage bacteria count (5.15 log CFU/g) and lipid oxidation level in the products inoculated with L. plantarum. The sensory analysis also showed that the samples added with L. plantarum at 30°C had significantly higher odor, taste and acceptability scores than those fermented at lower temperatures. Under the same processing condition, although the L. plantarum showed slightly lower acidification than the commercial starter culture, however, it significantly improved the eating quality of the product.

Genetic parameters of carcass and meat quality traits in different muscles (longissimus dorsi and semimembranosus) of Hanwoo (Korean cattle)

We estimated heritability () and genetic and phenotypic correlations for carcass and meat quality traits of longissimus dorsi (LD) and semimembranosus (SM) muscles in 30-mo-old Hanwoo steers. Variance and covariance components were estimated using REML procedures under univariate and bivariate models. The mean carcass weight (CWT), eye muscle area (EMA), back fat thickness (BFT), and marbling score (MS) were 428.20 ± 46.30 kg, 87.38 ± 8.54 cm2, 13.00 ± 5.14 mm, and 5.21 ± 1.56, respectively. The mean CIE reflectance of meat lightness (L*), redness (a*), and yellowness (b*) were 40.01 ± 2.73, 22.37 ± 2.18, and 10.35 ± 1.46, respectively, in LD muscles and 36.33 ± 2.44, 22.91 ± 2.43, and 10.25 ± 1.65, respectively, in SM muscles. The mean Warner-Bratzler shear force (WBSF), intramuscular fat content (IMF), water-holding capacity (WHC), and protein and ash content in LD and SM muscles were 3.84 ± 0.96 and 6.52 ± 1.21 kg, 15.91 ± 4.39 and 5.10 ± 1.94%, 62.07 ± 3.38 and 71.61 ± 2.06%, 20.01 ± 1.39 and 21.34 ± 0.89%, and 0.80 ± 0.10 and 0.93 ± 0.07, respectively. The estimates of CWT, EMA, BFT, and MS were 0.51 ± 0.13, 0.45 ± 0.13, 0.29 ± 0.09, and 0.22 ± 0.08, respectively. The estimates were moderate for meat quality traits and were 0.37 ± 0.12, 0.40 ± 0.12, 0.33 ± 0.10, 0.33 ± 0.10, 0.30 ± 0.11, and 0.24 ± 0.09 for L*, WBSF, IMF, WHC, and protein and ash content, respectively, in LD muscle; estimates from SM muscle were comparatively low (0.08 ± 0.06 to 0.25 ± 0.09). Estimates of for a* and b* were also low (0.08 ± 0.06 to 0.13 ± 0.07). Carcass weight had a moderate, positive genetic correlation with EMA (0.60 ± 0.13) and a weak correlation with MS and BFT. The genetic correlations among the 3 colorimeter variants were strong and positive within and between muscles. Intramuscular fat content had moderate to strong and negative genetic correlations with WBSF (-0.49 ± 0.18), WHC (-0.99 ± 0.01), and protein (-0.93 ± 0.04) and ash content (-0.98 ± 0.06) in LD muscle, whereas the associations were less pronounced in SM muscle. In general, CWT and EMA had low genetic and phenotypic correlations with meat quality traits, which suggests that the traits are independent and have distinct genetic contributions in each muscle. Conversely, with few exceptions, meat quality traits had genetic and phenotypic correlations with MS and BFT. In conclusion, the estimated genetic parameters for carcass and meat quality traits could be used for genetic evaluation and breeding programs in Korean Hanwoo cattle populations.

Assessment of frozen storage duration effect on quality characteristics of various horse muscles

Objective

The study aimed at assessing the effects of frozen storage duration on quality characteristics, lipid oxidation and sensory quality of various horse muscles.

Methods

Five representative muscles: longissimus dorsi (LD), gluteus medius (GM), semimembranosus (SM), biceps femoris (BF), and triceps brachii (TB) at 24 h post-mortem obtained from 28-mo-old Jeju female breed horses (n = 8) were used in the present investigation. The muscles were vacuum-packaged and frozen at −20°C for 120, 240, and 360 days. All the samples were analyzed for thawing and cooking losses, pH, Warner–Bratzler shear forces (WBSF), color traits, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVBN), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and sensory traits. The muscle samples analyzed on day 0 of frozen storage (fresh, non-frozen) were used for comparison.

Results

Results revealed that thawing and cooking losses significantly (p<0.05) increased in all the muscles after 120 days and then remained unchanged up to 360 days of frozen storage. The TBARS and TVBN contents significantly increased as increasing frozen storage time up to 360 days (p<0.05). While, significant decreases in WBSF values were observed for all the muscles with increased frozen storage time (p<0.05). Frozen storage variously affected the color traits of the muscles for instance; the redness of LD, GM, and BF muscles showed a decreasing tendency during frozen storage while it was not changed in TB and SM muscles. Furthermore, the frozen storage did not produce detrimental effects on sensory quality as it did not cause flavor and juiciness defects whereas it partially improved the tenderness of all the muscles studied.

Conclusion

Based on the results obtained from our work, it is concluded that frozen storage could be applied to increase the long-term shelf life of horsemeat while still retaining its sensory quality.

PAI-1 gain-of-function genotype, factors increasing PAI-1 levels, and airway obstruction: The GALA II Cohort

BACKGROUND

PAI-1 gain-of-function variants promote airway fibrosis and are associated with asthma and with worse lung function in subjects with asthma.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to determine whether the association of a gain-of-function polymorphism in plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) with airway obstruction is modified by asthma status, and whether any genotype effect persists after accounting for common exposures that increase PAI-1 level.

METHODS

We studied 2070 Latino children (8-21y) with genotypic and pulmonary function data from the GALA II cohort. We estimated the relationship of the PAI-1 risk allele with FEV1/FVC by multivariate linear regression, stratified by asthma status. We examined the association of the polymorphism with asthma and airway obstruction within asthmatics via multivariate logistic regression. We replicated associations in the SAPPHIRE cohort of African Americans (n=1056). Secondary analysis included the effect of the at-risk polymorphism on postbronchodilator lung function.

RESULTS

There was an interaction between asthma status and the PAI-1 polymorphism on FEV₁ /FVC (P=.03). The gain-of-function variants, genotypes (AA/AG), were associated with lower FEV₁ /FVC in subjects with asthma (β=-1.25, CI: -2.14,-0.35, P=.006), but not in controls. Subjects with asthma and the AA/AG genotypes had a 5% decrease in FEV₁ /FVC (P<.001). In asthmatics, the risk genotype (AA/AG) was associated with a 39% increase in risk of clinically relevant airway obstruction (OR=1.39, CI: 1.01, 1.92, P=.04). These associations persisted after exclusion of factors that increase PAI-1 including tobacco exposure and obesity.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The decrease in the FEV₁ /FVC ratio associated with the risk genotype was modified by asthma status. The genotype increased the odds of airway obstruction by 75% within asthmatics only. As exposures known to increase PAI-1 levels did not mitigate this association, PAI-1 may contribute to airway obstruction in the context of chronic asthmatic airway inflammation.

Maternal and Placental Factors Associated with Congenital Hearing Loss in Very Preterm Neonates

BACKGROUND

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a multifactorial disease that more frequently affects preterm newborns. Although a number of maternal conditions have been reported to be associated with preterm birth, little information is available concerning maternal risk factors for the development of SNHL. We aimed to identify maternal and placental risk factors associated with a "refer" result on the newborn hearing screening (NHS) test and subsequently confirmed SNHL in very preterm neonates.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 267 singleton neonates who were born alive after ≤ 32 weeks. Histopathologic examination of the placenta was performed, and clinical data were retrieved from a computerized perinatal database. Cases with two abnormal findings, "refer" on the NHS test, and presence of SNHL on the confirmation test were retrospectively reviewed based on electronic medical records.

RESULTS

Forty-two neonates (15.7%) showed a "refer" result, and, on the confirmation test, permanent SNHL was identified in 1.87% (5/267) of all neonates. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that the presence of funisitis was independently associated with a "refer" on the NHS test, whereas use of antenatal corticosteroids was statistically significantly associated with a reduced incidence of "refer" on the screening test. Neither histologic chorioamnionitis nor prematurity (as defined by low gestational age and birth weight) was associated with a "refer" on the NHS test. By contrast, multivariate analysis with occurrence of SNHL as a dependent variable identified no significant associations with the parameters studied, probably owing to the small total number of neonates with permanent SNHL.

CONCLUSION

Presence of funisitis was significantly and independently associated with increased risk of abnormal NHS results, while administration of antenatal corticosteroids was related to a normal NHS result. These findings support the hypothesis that a systemic fetal inflammatory response, manifested as funisitis, might play a role in the pathogenesis of SNHL in preterm neonates.