Valerian inhibits rat hepatocarcinogenesis by activating GABA(A) receptor-mediated signaling

Valerian is widely used as a traditional medicine to improve the quality of sleep due to interaction of several active components with the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) A receptor (GABA(A)R) system. Recently, activation of GABA signaling in stem cells has been reported to suppress cell cycle progression in vivo. Furthermore, possible inhibitory effects of GABA(A)R agonists on hepatocarcinogenesis have been reported. The present study was performed to investigate modulating effects of Valerian on hepatocarcinogenesis using a medium-term rat liver bioassay. Male F344 rats were treated with one of the most powerful Valerian species (Valeriana sitchensis) at doses of 0, 50, 500 and 5000 ppm in their drinking water after initiation of hepatocarcinogenesis with diethylnitrosamine (DEN). Formation of glutathione S-transferase placental form positive (GST-P⁺) foci was significantly inhibited by Valerian at all applied doses compared with DEN initiation control rats. Generation of 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine in the rat liver was significantly suppressed by all doses of Valerian, likely due to suppression of Nrf2, CYP7A1 and induction of catalase expression. Cell proliferation was significantly inhibited, while apoptosis was induced in areas of GST-P⁺ foci of Valerian groups associated with suppression of c-myc, Mafb, cyclin D1 and induction of p21^Waf1/Cip1, p53 and Bax mRNA expression. Interestingly, expression of the GABA(A)R alpha 1 subunit was observed in GST-P⁺ foci of DEN control rats, with significant elevation associated with Valerian treatment. These results indicate that Valerian exhibits inhibitory effects on rat hepatocarcinogenesis by inhibiting oxidative DNA damage, suppressing cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis in GST-P⁺ foci by activating GABA(A)R-mediated signaling.

Aetiology, incidence and morphology of the C-shaped root canal system and its impact on clinical endodontics

The C-shaped root canal constitutes an unusual root morphology that can be found primarily in mandibular second permanent molars. Due to the complexity of their structure, C-shaped root canal systems may complicate endodontic interventions. A thorough understanding of root canal morphology is therefore imperative for proper diagnosis and successful treatment. This review aims to summarize current knowledge regarding C-shaped roots and root canals, from basic morphology to advanced endodontic procedures. To this end, a systematic search was conducted using the MEDLINE, BIOSIS, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Google Scholar, Web of Science, PLoS and BioMed Central databases, and many rarely cited articles were included. Furthermore, four interactive 3D models of extracted teeth are introduced that will allow for a better understanding of the complex C-shaped root canal morphology. In addition, the present publication includes an embedded best-practice video showing an exemplary root canal procedure on a tooth with a pronounced C-shaped root canal. The survey of this unusual structure concludes with a number of suggestions concerning future research efforts.

Accuracy of semiquantitative dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI for differentiating type II from type I endometrial carcinoma

PURPOSE

To investigate type II endometrial carcinoma characterization using dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) and evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of semiquantitative DCE-MRI in differentiating type II from type I tumors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seventy-seven patients with endometrial carcinoma were retrospectively evaluated using 3T DCE-MRI. The maximum absolute enhancement of signal intensity (SImax), maximum relative enhancement (SIrel), wash-in rate (WIR), and the SImax/SI (piriformis) ratio were analyzed. To differentiate type I from type II tumors, optimal threshold criteria were established. The Mann-Whitney U-test was used for statistical comparison and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to determine optimal cutoff values.

RESULTS

The SIrel (P < 0.001), WIR (P < 0.0001), and SImax/SI (piriformis) ratio (P < 0.0001), but not SImax, differed significantly between type I and type II carcinomas. Cutoff values of SIrel ≥58.8, WIR ≥37.0, and SImax/SI (piriformis) ratio ≥1.55 had sensitivities of 93%, 93%, and 67%, specificities of 60%, 60%, and 79%, accuracies of 66%, 66%, and 67%, respectively, for predicting type II endometrial carcinoma.

CONCLUSION

Endometrial carcinoma with strong (high level) enhancement on DCE-MRI is suggestive of type II endometrial carcinoma. Semiquantitative evaluation of DCE-MRI may be useful for differentiating type II from type I tumors.

Structural and Functional Properties of Hen Egg-white Lysozyme Deamidated by Protein Engineering

The structural and functional properties of lysozymes genetically deamidated at positions 103 (N103D) and 106 (N106D) were studied by a protein engineering technique. The wild-type and mutant lysozymes were expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and purified from the cultivation medium in two steps by cation-exchange chromatography on CM-Toyopearl. The lytic activity of deamidated lysozymes was almost the same as that of wild lysozyme, although the optimal pH of activity was slightly shifted to lower pH by the deamidation. The Gibbs free energy changes of unfolding (delta G) at 20 degrees C for N103D and N106D were almost the same as that of wild-type. On the other hand, the structural flexibility of lysozymes, estimated by protease digestion, was significantly increased by the deamidation. The surface functional properties of deamidated lysozymes were considerably enhanced, compared to those of wild-type lysozyme. These results suggest that structural flexibility is an important governing factor in surface functional properties of proteins, regardless of their structural stability.

Extraction of Food-Related Onomatopoeia from Food Reviews and its Application to Restaurant Search

Onomatopoeia has been widely used recently in food reviews about food or restaurants. In this paper, we propose and evaluate a method to automatically extract onomatopoeia including unknown ones from food reviews sites. From the evaluation result, we found that it is able to extract onomatopoeia for specific foods with more than 46% precision; the method found 18 new unknown food-related onomatopoeias, i.e., not registered in an existing onomatopoeia dictionary, and in 62 extracted onomatopoeias. In addition, we propose a system that can present the user with a list of onomatopoeia specific to a restaurant she/he is interested in. The evaluation results indicate that an intuitive restaurant search can be done via a list of onomatopoeia, and that they are helpful for selecting food or restaurants.

N- and C-alkylation of seven-membered iminosugars generates potent glucocerebrosidase inhibitors and F508del-CFTR correctors

The synthesis and biological evaluation of a library of novel seven-membered iminosugars is reported.

FAD104, a regulatory factor of adipogenesis, acts as a novel regulator of calvarial bone formation

Osteogenesis is a complex process that is orchestrated by several growth factors, extracellular cues, signaling molecules, and transcriptional factors. Understanding the mechanisms of bone formation is pivotal for clarifying the pathogenesis of bone diseases. Previously, we reported that fad104 (factor for adipocyte differentiation 104), a novel positive regulator of adipocyte differentiation, negatively regulated the differentiation of mouse embryonic fibroblasts into osteocytes. However, the physiological role of fad104 in bone formation has not been elucidated. Here, we clarified the role of fad104 in bone formation in vivo and in vitro. fad104 disruption caused craniosynostosis-like premature ossification of the calvarial bone. Furthermore, analyses using primary calvarial cells revealed that fad104 negatively regulated differentiation and BMP/Smad signaling pathway. FAD104 interacted with Smad1/5/8. The N-terminal region of FAD104, which contains a proline-rich motif, was capable of binding to Smad1/5/8. We demonstrated that down-regulation of Smad1/5/8 phosphorylation by FAD104 is dependent on the N-terminal region of FAD104 and that fad104 functions as a novel negative regulator of BMP/Smad signaling and is required for proper development for calvarial bone. These findings will aid a comprehensive description of the mechanism that controls normal and premature calvarial ossification.

Effects of milnacipran, a 5-HT and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, on C-fibre-evoked field potentials in spinal long-term potentiation and neuropathic pain

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The analgesic action of 5-HT and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) on nociceptive synaptic transmission in the spinal cord is poorly understood. We investigated the effects of milnacipran, an SNRI, on C-fibre-evoked field potentials (FPs) in spinal long-term potentiation (LTP), a proposed synaptic mechanism of hypersensitivity, and on the FPs in a neuropathic pain model.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

C-fibre-evoked FPs by electrical stimulation of the sciatic nerve fibres were recorded in the spinal dorsal horn of anaesthetized adult rats, and LTP was induced by high-frequency stimulation of the sciatic nerve fibres. A rat model of neuropathic pain was produced by L5 spinal nerve ligation and transection.

KEY RESULTS

Milnacipran produced prolonged inhibition of C-fibre-evoked FPs when applied spinally after the establishment of LTP of C-fibre-evoked FPs in naïve animals. In the neuropathic pain model, spinal administration of milnacipran clearly reduced the basal C-fibre-evoked FPs. These inhibitory effects of milnacipran were blocked by spinal administration of methysergide, a 5-HT½ receptor antagonist, and yohimbine or idazoxan, α₂-adrenoceptor antagonists. However, spinal administration of milnacipran in naïve animals did not affect the basal C-fibre-evoked FPs and the induction of spinal LTP.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Milnacipran inhibited C-fibre-mediated nociceptive synaptic transmission in the spinal dorsal horn after the establishment of spinal LTP and in the neuropathic pain model, by activating both spinal 5-hydroxytryptaminergic and noradrenergic systems. The condition-dependent inhibition of the C-fibre-mediated transmission by milnacipran could provide novel evidence regarding the analgesic mechanisms of SNRIs in chronic pain.

Chylous ascites after hepatopancreatobiliary surgery

Background

Postoperative chylous ascites following abdominal surgery is uncommon. It potentially induces malnutrition and immunodeficiency, contributing to increased mortality. In the field of hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) surgery, no large studies have been conducted that focused on postoperative chylous ascites. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence, risk factors and management of chylous ascites following HPB surgery, with particular emphasis on pancreatic resection.

Methods

Consecutive patients who had HPB surgery between 2000 and 2011 at a single institution were reviewed retrospectively. Chyle leak was defined as 100 ml/day or more of milky, amylase-free peritoneal fluid with a triglyceride concentration of 110 mg/dl or above. Risk factors for chylous ascites associated with pancreatic resection and the clinical efficacy of octreotide in treating chylous ascites were evaluated.

Results

Of 2002 consecutive patients who underwent HPB surgery during the study period, 21 (1·0 per cent) developed chylous ascites. Chylous ascites occurred relatively frequently in patients who had a pancreatic resection, such as pancreaticoduodenectomy (3·3 per cent) or distal pancreatectomy (3·8 per cent). Multivariable analysis revealed that manipulation of the para-aortic area (P &lt; 0·001), retroperitoneal invasion (P = 0·031) and early enteral feeding after operation (P &lt; 0·001) were independent risk factors for chylous ascites following pancreatic resection. Octreotide treatment decreased drainage output of chylous ascites on day 1 after initiation of treatment (P = 0·002).

Conclusion

Chylous ascites is a rare complication following HPB surgery. It is more common after pancreatic resection. Treatment with octreotide combined with total parenteral nutrition is recommended.

Chu H, Peters AT, Tan BK, Conley DB, Grammer LC, Kern RC, Schleimer RP. Reduced expression of antimicrobial PLUNC proteins in nasal polyp tissues of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a disease characterized by inflammation of the nasal mucosa and paranasal sinuses. This inflammation may result in part from decreased epithelial barrier and innate immune responses, leading to frequent bacterial and fungal colonization. The objectives of this study were to investigate the expression of innate immune proteins of the palate lung and nasal epithelium clone (PLUNC) family in patients with CRS.

METHODS

Nasal tissue samples were collected from control subjects and CRS patients with and without nasal polyps. Expression of the members of the PLUNC family was analyzed by real-time PCR. Expression of SPLUNC1 and LPLUNC2 proteins was analyzed by ELISA, immunoblot, and immunohistochemical analysis.

RESULTS

Levels of mRNA for most of the members of the PLUNC family were profoundly reduced in nasal polyps (NPs) compared to uncinate tissue from control subjects or patients with CRS. LPLUNC2 and SPLUNC1 proteins were decreased in NPs of patients with CRS compared to uncinate tissue from control subjects. Immunohistochemical data revealed that within submucosal glands of sinonasal tissues, SPLUNC1 and LPLUNC2 were differentially expressed, in serous and mucous cells, respectively. The decrease in the expression of these molecules is probably explained by a decrease in the number of glands in NPs as revealed by correlations with levels of the glandular marker lactoferrin.

CONCLUSIONS

Decreased SPLUNC1 and LPLUNC2 in NPs reflect a profound decrease in the number of submucosal glands. Decreased glands may lead to a localized defect in the production and release of glandular innate defense molecules.

Application of collagen hydrogel/sponge scaffold facilitates periodontal wound healing in class II furcation defects in beagle dogs

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

A three-dimensional scaffold may play an important role in periodontal tissue engineering. We prepared bio-safe collagen hydrogel, which exhibits properties similar to those of native extracellular matrix. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of implantation of collagen hydrogel/sponge scaffold on periodontal wound healing in class II furcation defects in dogs.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The collagen hydrogel/sponge scaffold was prepared by injecting collagen hydrogel, cross-linked to the ascorbate-copper ion system, into a collagen sponge. Class II furcation defects (of 5 mm depth and 3 mm width) were surgically created in beagle dogs. The exposed root surface was planed and demineralized with EDTA. In the experimental group, the defect was filled with collagen hydrogel/sponge scaffold. In the control group, no implantation was performed. Histometric parameters were evaluated 2 and 4 wk after surgery.

RESULTS

At 2 wk, the collagen hydrogel/sponge scaffold displayed high biocompatibility and biodegradability with numerous cells infiltrating the scaffold. In the experimental group, reconstruction of alveolar bone and cementum was frequently observed 4 wk after surgery. Periodontal ligament tissue was also re-established between alveolar bone and cementum. Volumes of new bone, new cementum and new periodontal ligament were significantly greater in the experimental group than in the control group. In addition, epithelial down-growth was suppressed by application of collagen hydrogel.

CONCLUSION

The collagen hydrogel/sponge scaffold possessed high tissue compatibility and degradability. Implantation of the scaffold facilitated periodontal wound healing in class II furcation defects in beagle dogs.